Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) is set for February 26-27, 2027, in Milan, Italy.
This congress continues its tradition of delivering high-quality scientific content and fostering lively discussions on debated topics in ophthalmology.
With a loyal international community of participants, faculty, and industry partners, COPHy remains a leading meeting in the field.
TL;DR
- 1Scale and Focus: COPHy is recognized for its high-quality scientific content and engaging discussions on controversial topics in ophthalmology.
- 2Organiser: The congress is organized by ComtecMed, known for its commitment to excellence in medical conferences.
- 3Buyer Authority: Attendees include ophthalmologists, researchers, and industry professionals who influence purchasing decisions in the field.
- 4Entry: Registration is required for participation; visit the official website for details.
- 5Location: World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) takes place in Milan, IT. Venue: 26. Scheduled 2027-02-26 to 2027-02-27.
Why visit
Attendees will gain insights into the latest advancements in ophthalmology, network with leading experts, and participate in discussions that shape the future of eye care. Attendees include ophthalmologists, researchers, and industry professionals who influence purchasing decisions in the field. The World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) is set for February 26-27, 2027, in Milan, Italy. This congress continues its tradition of delivering high-quality.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will have the opportunity to showcase their latest products and innovations to a targeted audience of ophthalmology professionals. This is a chance to enhance visibility, generate leads, and connect with key decision-makers in the industry. Meet qualified buyers and partners including Pharmaceutical companies showcasing new ophthalmic drugs, Medical device manufacturers presenting innovative technologies, Healthcare service providers offering solutions for eye.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Comprehensive ophthalmologists updating general practice across cataract, glaucoma and retina
Retina specialists and vitreoretinal surgeons evaluating anti-VEGF, gene therapy and surgical retina debates
Cataract and refractive surgeons comparing IOL platforms, laser vision correction and phakic IOL options
Glaucoma specialists reviewing MIGS devices, drainage implants and medical therapy evidence
Cornea and ocular surface specialists focused on keratoplasty, cross-linking and dry eye disease
Uveitis and neuro-ophthalmology clinicians managing complex intraocular inflammation
Pediatric ophthalmologists and strabismologists tracking surgical and amblyopia management updates
Residents, fellows and medical students building subspecialty knowledge and mentor contacts
Optometrists and orthoptists referring patients and reviewing diagnostic and rehabilitation pathways
Ophthalmic nurses, technicians and imaging staff who operate OCT, biometry and perimetry equipment
Clinical researchers and academic faculty presenting trial data and controversy-driven case series
Industry medical affairs, R&D, regulatory and market access professionals supporting ophthalmic products
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Pharmaceutical and biotech companies developing anti-VEGF agents, gene therapies, sustained-release implants and dry eye therapeutics
Device manufacturers for cataract, refractive and vitreoretinal surgery, including phaco platforms, femtosecond lasers and vitrectomy systems
Intraocular lens and contact lens makers presenting monofocal, toric, extended depth of focus and specialty lens portfolios
Glaucoma companies with MIGS devices, drainage implants, laser platforms and topical therapy portfolios
Diagnostic imaging developers showing OCT, fundus cameras, corneal topography, biometry and perimetry systems
Cornea and ocular surface companies offering transplant tissue, cross-linking equipment, dry eye diagnostics and lubricants
Digital health and AI companies with retinal screening, image analysis and clinical workflow software
Ophthalmic instrument, consumable and surgical supply distributors serving clinics and hospital eye departments
Clinical research organisations, medical publishers and professional societies supporting ophthalmic education and trials
Practice management, EHR and patient engagement vendors serving eye clinics and surgical centres
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Cataract surgery platforms and intraocular lenses, including monofocal, toric and extended depth of focus designs
Refractive surgery technologies such as LASIK, SMILE, PRK and phakic IOL systems
Retina therapeutics and drug delivery, including anti-VEGF injections, implants and gene therapy approaches
Glaucoma diagnostics, MIGS devices, drainage implants and topical medical therapy
Cornea and ocular surface products, including cross-linking, transplant tissue and dry eye treatments
Ophthalmic imaging and diagnostics: OCT, fundus cameras, topography, biometry and perimetry
Ophthalmic pharmaceuticals for perioperative care, inflammation, infection and chronic eye disease
Digital health, AI retinal analysis and clinical workflow software
Surgical instruments, consumables and sterilization products for ophthalmic operating rooms
Pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus assessment and surgical equipment
Contact lenses, vision correction and low vision rehabilitation products
Practice management, EHR and patient communication tools for eye care providers
Location & Facilities
Venue
26
Via Giorgio Washington, 66, 20146 Milano
Facilities
Parking
26 in Milan typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: 26 in Milan typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at 26 for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
General admission
Standard Room Single
570General admission
Standard Room Double
590
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Milan, IT
Why it matters
On 2027-02-26 to 2027-02-27, World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) in Milan covering Ophthalmic pharmaceuticals and therapeutics, Surgical instruments and devices for eye procedures, Diagnostic equipment f gives medical buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · EUR
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Milan Malpensa Airport
Malpensa Express to Milano Centrale, then Metro M1 (red line) to Rho Fiera
~45 km to Fiera Milano / Rho
to venue
40-55 min off-peak
by car
Milan Linate Airport
Closest airport to central Milan; bus 73 to San Babila, then Metro M1 to Rho Fiera
~18 km to Fiera Milano
to venue
25-40 min off-peak
by car
Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport
Terravision/Orio shuttle to Milano Centrale, then Metro M1 to Rho Fiera
~55 km to Fiera Milano
to venue
50-70 min by road
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Hotel Sporting
4-star
Milan (near venue)USD 150–190 / night
Google Hotels listing captured for 26-27 Feb 2027 stay; amenities shown: free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, air conditioning, pet-friendly, fitness center, bar, restaurant. Guest rating 4.0 from about 1.1K reviews.
iH Hotels Milano Eur - Trezzano sul Naviglio
4-star
Trezzano sul Naviglio (western Milan outskirts)USD 150–190 / night
Captured 4-star option with guest rating 3.8; breakfast and parking charged separately, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, pet-friendly, bar, room service, full-service laundry.
Hotel Da Vinci Milano
4-star
MilanUSD 150–190 / night
Captured 4-star hotel, guest rating 3.9; paid breakfast and parking, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, pet-friendly, bar, restaurant, room service.
YellowSquare Milan
Budget / hostel-style
MilanUSD 95–122 / night
Captured with guest rating 4.7; paid breakfast, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, parking, bar, restaurant.
Hotel ibis Milano Fiera
3-star chain
Milan fair districtUSD 95–122 / night
Captured with guest rating 4.2; paid breakfast, free Wi-Fi, free parking, air conditioning, pet-friendly.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
taxi
Estimated costEUR 95-110 (fixed-fare taxi to central Milan)
Best forMilan Malpensa Airport (MXP) to 26
40-55 min off-peak
taxi
Estimated costEUR 40-55 (metered taxi to Fiera Milano)
Best forMilan Linate Airport (LIN) to 26
25-40 min off-peak
taxi
Estimated costEUR 80-100 (private transfer to Milano Centrale area)
Best forMilan Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY) to 26
50-70 min by road
metro
Estimated costEUR 2.20-2.60 single journey (ATM contactless ticket)
Best forMetro M1 (red line) to Rho Fiera / Fiera Milano
Direct metro from central Milan to the fairgrounds; frequent service during show week.
Weather
Late February in Milan is still winter: expect cold, often grey days and a realistic chance of rain, with a marked chill in the evening. Layer a warm coat with a waterproof outer shell, and carry an umbrella for the transfer between metro and the fairground.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Confirm mobile roaming or local SIM options for business visitors to IT.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Language and greetings
Italian is the local language; English is widely used in congress venues, hotels and restaurants. A polite buongiorno or buonasera and a handshake are appropriate in professional settings.
Dress code
Smart casual is typical for congress days, while business formal works for meetings with Italian companies or hospital departments. February weather calls for warm layers and a coat.
Dining and tipping
Milanese dinners often start later than in northern Europe. Service may be included; rounding up or leaving about 5-10 percent is common when service is not included. Espresso and aperitivo are part of local routine.
Public transport etiquette
Validate paper tickets and use contactless payment where available. Keep noise low on metro and rail services, and allow passengers to exit before boarding.
Churches and historic sites
Many churches require modest dress covering shoulders and knees. Keep voices low and check photography rules at religious and museum sites.
Safety and pickpockets
Milan is generally safe for visitors, but pickpocketing can occur around Duomo, central stations and crowded metro lines. Keep bags zipped and avoid displaying valuables.
Seasonal packing
Late February is still winter in Milan. Pack a warm coat, waterproof shoes, an umbrella and layers for chilly evenings and possible rain during the walk between transport and the venue.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: MXP
Captured searches for 26 Feb 2027 departures into Milan Malpensa (MXP) show the widest nonstop choice from London (British Airways, about 2 hours 5 minutes) and New York JFK (multiple nonstop carriers, roughly 7.5 hours). Tokyo and Singapore itineraries mostly route via Gulf, Hong Kong or other Asian hubs with 13-30 hour total travel times, and Sydney itineraries run 23-26 hours with one or two stops. Book early for late-February departures, since captured price insights flagged New York fares as currently high and London fares as typical.
Transport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP): 40-55 min off-peak; Milan Linate Airport (LIN): 25-40 min off-peak; Milan Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport (BGY): 50-70 min by road. Allow road or rail time to 26; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near 26: Milan (near venue): Hotel Sporting; Trezzano sul Naviglio (western Milan outskirts): iH Hotels Milano Eur - Trezzano sul Naviglio; Milan: Hotel Da Vinci Milano.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Milan; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: Milan's ATM network combines metro, trams and buses. Metro M1 (red line) serves Rho Fiera Milano, the city's main exhibition district, as well as the historic centre; Metro M2 (green) and M3 (yellow) connect other key districts and rail stations. From Malpensa Airport (MXP), the Malpensa Express train runs to Milano Cadorna and Milano Centrale, where you can transfer to the metro. From Linate Airport (LIN), bus 73 connects to San Babila, a short walk from Metro M1. From Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY), shuttle buses typically run to Milano Centrale, followed by Metro M1 toward Rho Fiera. Urban single tickets are approximately EUR 2.20-2.60, with daily and multi-day passes available; contactless bank cards are accepted on many services. Confirm live ATM fares, strike notices and the venue's exact station before travel.
Parking: On-site parking is available at 26; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: February 2027
Temperature: Late February in Milan is late winter: daytime highs usually 8-13 C, overnight lows 2-5 C, with a realistic chance of rain and grey skies. Pack a warm coat, layers, waterproof shoes and an umbrella for transfers between metro and the venue.
Seasonality: February falls in Milan's cooler, wetter half of the year; rain episodes and overcast spells are common, so plan for wet pavement and shorter daylight around show opening and closing.
Packing: Pack a warm waterproof coat, closed shoes suitable for walking long exhibition halls, an umbrella or compact rain jacket, and smart-casual layers for evening business dinners in central Milan.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm registration
T-2
Book accommodation
T-3
Book travel
T-4
Check entry documents
T-5
Download the programme
T-6
Plan airport transfer
T-7
Prepare a meeting list
T-8
Pack for Milan winter
T-9
Check local travel
T-10
Confirm CME needs
T-11
Collect your badge
T-12
Follow up on debates
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at 26
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) registration concourse
26
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
26
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights€190.00
- Per diem × 2€150.00
Estimated total€340.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Cost reference
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
visitor_ticket
visitor · General admission
EUR 570 / per person
organiser_published
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| visitor_ticket | visitor | General admission | EUR 570 / per person | organiser_published |
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy), what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Ophthalmic pharmaceuticals and therapeutics and Surgical instruments and devices solutions and benchmarking suppliers at World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) in Milan.
Min. budget
$1,081.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Ophthalmic pharmaceuticals and therapeutics and Surgical instruments and devices products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$4,864.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Milan show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
What is COPHY?
COPHY is a congress on controversies in ophthalmology. Its programme is built around evidence-based debate and case discussion across retina, glaucoma, cornea, refractive surgery and related ophthalmic subspecialties.
When and where is COPHY 2027?
COPHY 2027 is scheduled for 26-27 February 2027 in Milan, Italy. Confirm the exact venue, access details and final programme on the official COPHY website before booking travel.
Who attends COPHY?
The audience is mainly ophthalmologists and ophthalmic subspecialists, including retina, cataract, refractive, glaucoma, cornea and uveitis specialists, plus residents, fellows, optometrists, orthoptists, ophthalmic nurses, researchers and industry medical teams.
Is COPHY only for ophthalmologists?
Ophthalmic clinicians and researchers are the core audience, but allied eye-care professionals and industry partners with a legitimate interest in ophthalmology also attend. Check registration categories on the official site.
Which topics are on the COPHY programme?
Expect controversy-led sessions on retina and vitreoretinal disease, cataract and IOL selection, refractive surgery, glaucoma diagnostics and surgery, cornea and ocular surface, uveitis and neuro-ophthalmology, plus imaging and digital health topics.
How do I register for COPHY 2027?
Registration is handled through the official COPHY website. Fees, deadlines, cancellation terms and badge collection details should be confirmed there before you pay or book non-refundable travel.
Is there an exhibition at COPHY?
COPHY includes industry participation from pharmaceutical, device, diagnostic and digital health companies. Review the official exhibitor list and floor plan to plan meetings with relevant suppliers.
What language are COPHY sessions in?
COPHY is an international ophthalmology congress and sessions are generally conducted in English. Check the official programme for any translated sessions or language support.
How do I reach the Milan venue?
Milan has three main airports: Malpensa (MXP), Linate (LIN) and Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY). Metro M1 serves Rho Fiera Milano, the main exhibition district, and the city centre is covered by the ATM metro and tram network. Confirm the venue address before choosing a route.
Do I need a visa for Milan?
Italy is in the Schengen area. Many non-EU and non-EEA passport holders need a Schengen short-stay visa. Apply through the Italian embassy or visa centre in your country well before travel and confirm current requirements with official Italian sources.
Are CME credits available at COPHY?
CME accreditation and certificate procedures vary by edition and are published by the organiser. Check the official COPHY programme or accreditation page for the 2027 arrangements.
Can I book hotels through the organiser?
Check the official COPHY website for any appointed hotel partners or congress rates. Otherwise compare flexible rates in central Milan and near the venue, and confirm cancellation policies before booking.
Glossary
- Anti-VEGF therapy
- Intravitreal injections that inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor, used in neovascular age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion.
- OCT (optical coherence tomography)
- Non-invasive cross-sectional imaging of the retina and anterior segment used to detect edema, fluid, atrophy and structural change.
- Intraocular lens (IOL)
- A lens implanted during cataract surgery; options include monofocal, toric, extended depth of focus and other premium designs.
- Refractive surgery
- Laser or lens-based procedures such as LASIK, PRK, SMILE and phakic IOL implantation intended to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
- MIGS
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, a group of procedures that lower intraocular pressure with less tissue disruption than traditional filtering surgery.
- Trabeculectomy
- A glaucoma filtration operation that creates a guarded drainage channel to lower intraocular pressure.
- DMEK and DSEK
- Corneal endothelial keratoplasty techniques that replace Descemet membrane and endothelium, with DMEK using a thinner donor graft.
- Keratoconus
- A progressive corneal ectasia that thins and steepens the cornea; management includes spectacles, contact lenses and corneal cross-linking.
- Dry eye disease
- A multifactorial ocular surface disorder involving tear film instability, inflammation and symptoms of irritation or visual fluctuation.
- Biometry
- Ocular measurements such as axial length, corneal power and anterior chamber depth used to calculate IOL power before cataract surgery.
- Perimetry
- Visual field testing that maps sensitivity across the visual field and is used in glaucoma and neuro-ophthalmic assessment.
- Vitrectomy
- Surgical removal of vitreous gel, used for retinal detachment, macular hole, vitreous hemorrhage and other posterior segment conditions.
- Uveitis
- Inflammation of the uvea and adjacent intraocular tissues; workup and treatment depend on anatomic location and underlying cause.
- AI in ophthalmology
- Machine learning applied to retinal images, OCT, visual fields and other ophthalmic data to support screening, diagnosis and monitoring.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) 2027
- World Congress on Controversies in Ophthalmology (COPHy) Milan 2027
- World Congress 2027
- World Congress Milan 2027
- Controversies 2027
- Controversies Milan 2027
- Ophthalmology 2027
- Ophthalmology Milan 2027
- COPHy 2027
- COPHy Milan 2027
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.