Departments

The Vitreoretinal Department at the S.V. Malayan Eye Center has been operating since 1978, initially established as a trauma unit. It is now led by Dr. Armen Vardanyan, Professor of Ophthalmology at Yerevan State Medical University and Doctor of Medical Sciences.

After receiving advanced training in the United States, Dr. Vardanyan established the Vitreoretinal Center in 1997, building on the foundation of the former trauma department. Equipped with modern technology, it is the only dedicated vitreoretinal center in Armenia and the region. The department performs all types of retinal detachment surgeries, using the most current techniques. Leadership & Recognition

Dr. Armen Vardanyan has served as Chief Ophthalmologist of Yerevan since 1989 and also as a consulting ophthalmologist for the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

He is:

A professor at the Department of Ophthalmology, Yerevan State Medical University
Head of the university’s clinical residency program
An active participant and organizer of international medical conferences
Author of more than 45 scientific publications, many published internationally
Given the global impact of diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness, Dr. Vardanyan led the creation of a special task force in 2010—established by Yerevan City Hall—to coordinate efforts between ophthalmologists and endocrinologists across the city in preventing diabetic eye complications. Surgeries Performed

Primary wound care for penetrating eye injuries
Reconstructive surgeries after eye trauma
Full-thickness corneal transplant (penetrating keratoplasty)
Artificial iris implantation in cases of post-traumatic aniridia
Iris and pupil reconstruction
Phacoemulsification or extracapsular cataract extraction with IOL placement (including scleral fixation techniques for posterior capsule damage)
IOL implantation for congenital, post-traumatic, or post-surgical aphakia
Repositioning of dislocated intraocular lenses
Retinal detachment surgeries: scleral buckling, pars plana vitrectomy with various tamponades (silicone oil, gas, air)
Removal of subretinal and epiretinal membranes to treat proliferative vitreoretinopathy
Optic nerve radial neurotomy
Research & Innovation
The department has completed 4 grant-funded research projects focused on:

Optic nerve atrophy (NUS)
Pigmentary retinal dystrophy (NUS)
Taurine treatment studies
NUS-related vitrectomy
Our Team
11 Ophthalmologists
6 Nurses
3 Medical Assistants
2 Faculty Members from the Department of Ophthalmology at Yerevan State Medical University
All physicians have undergone international training and regularly participate in global ophthalmology conferences.

The department performs approximately 120 surgeries per month.

Dr. Armen Vardanyan is the author of a doctoral thesis titled: "New Methods for Treating Complex Retinal Detachments and Other Retinal Pathologies."

For Inquiries or Appointments
📞 (+374) 10 35 37 40 📞 (+374) 10 34 49 44

The Department of Ocular Inflammatory Diseases at the S. V. Malayan Ophthalmological Center was initially established as a laboratory in 2002 and became a standalone department in September 2005.

The department specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and surgical management of external eye conditions (including conjunctivitis, blepharitis, dry eye syndrome, etc.), as well as diseases of the cornea (keratitis, ulcers, dystrophies, degenerative changes, burns), and inflammatory conditions of the uveal tract and retina (uveitis).

The department also performs a wide range of surgical procedures. Many patients undergo cataract surgery with implantation of various types of intraocular lenses, including monofocal, multifocal, toric, and lenses for astigmatism, depending on the patient’s needs and eye condition.

The department houses the Eye Tissue Bank, which collaborates with the Lions Eye Bank (USA). Each year, the bank receives approximately 100–150 donor corneas.

All types of corneal transplantation are performed here: full-thickness, lamellar, and keratoplasty.

Department Head Dr. A. V. Hambardzumyan (PhD) has twice completed professional training in the United States on eye tissue banking (2004 and 2022).

Since 2005, the department has been the only center in the region to perform Boston Type I keratoprosthesis (artificial cornea implantation). This rare and highly specialized surgery restores vision in patients with severe chemical, thermal, or thermochemical eye burns.

Other common procedures include pterygium excision, removal of conjunctival and eyelid tumors, cosmetic corneal tattooing (since 2005), and transplantation of amniotic membranes and limbal stem cells — all of which significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Currently, the department monitors approximately 3,226 patients with uveitis and 5,036 with corneal disorders. On average, 50–100 patients are examined daily. The department also trains 7–10 clinical residents per year and performs around 100–150 surgeries annually.

Since the founding of the Malayan Eye Center in 1978, the department - originally known as the Vascular Pathology Department - has been responsible not only for vascular cases but also for managing and rehabilitating patients with ocular injuries.

Its importance became even more pronounced during military conflicts, including the 1992–94 war, the 2016 Four-Day War (6 patients treated), and especially the 2020 44-Day War, during which the department provided emergency and surgical care to 164 injured patients. In 2020, it was officially renamed the Eye Trauma Department.

Mission & Scope
The department’s primary mission is to provide:

Immediate emergency care for patients with eye injuries
Rehabilitation and surgical treatment when necessary
Specialized management of intraocular foreign bodies, from diagnosis to surgery
To ensure effective treatment, the department is fully equipped with modern diagnostic tools, including:

X-ray imaging
Ocular ultrasonography
These allow physicians to deliver high-quality, precision care.

Education & Training
Physicians in the department have trained in leading clinics worldwide.
The hospital administration ensures all conditions are in place for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
The department also trains young ophthalmologists, providing hands-on education in managing ocular trauma.
Expanded Services
Beyond trauma, the department also offers:

Consultations, diagnostics, and treatment for a wide range of eye conditions
Surgical care for lens and retinal diseases
Outpatient procedures for appropriate cases
Whether dealing with military, workplace, domestic, or accidental injuries, the Eye Trauma Department continues to operate at full capacity and readiness.

Conference Contributions (45th Anniversary Scientific Symposium)
Tactics for Removing Intraocular Foreign Bodies (Dr. G.L. Grigoryan)
Case Studies in Foreign Body Extraction (Dr. T.V. Gharibyan)
2020–2023 Eye Trauma Cases Involving Foreign Bodies: Statistical Review (Dr. L.G. Grigoryan)

The Vitreoretinal Department at S.V. Malayan Eye Center was established in 1978, originally functioning as a trauma unit. It is currently led by Dr. Armen Vardanyan, Doctor of Medical Sciences and Professor at the Yerevan State Medical University’s Department of Ophthalmology.

Following advanced training in the United States, Dr. Vardanyan launched the Vitreoretinal Center in 1997—equipped with cutting-edge technology and built on the foundation of the trauma unit. It remains the only specialized vitreoretinal center in Armenia and the entire region, offering advanced care for all types of retinal detachments.

Department Leadership & Achievements
Since 1989, Dr. Vardanyan has served as:

Chief Ophthalmologist of Yerevan
Consulting Ophthalmologist for the Ministry of Internal Affairs
Professor at Yerevan State Medical University
Program Director for the Clinical Residency in Ophthalmology
He has participated in numerous international conferences, organized events in Yerevan, and authored more than 45 scientific publications, many of which have been published internationally.

In response to the growing threat of diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, Dr. Vardanyan helped establish a Citywide Diabetes Eye Care Task Force in 2010. Formed under a decision by Yerevan City Hall, this group brings together ophthalmologists and endocrinologists to help prevent diabetic vision loss.

Surgical Procedures Performed
Primary wound treatment for penetrating eye injuries
Reconstructive surgeries following trauma
Corneal transplantation (penetrating keratoplasty)
Artificial iris implantation for post-traumatic aniridia
Iris and pupil reconstruction
Phacoemulsification or extracapsular cataract extraction with intraocular lens (IOL) placement (with scleral fixation techniques for posterior capsule damage)
IOL implantation for congenital, traumatic, or post-operative aphakia
IOL repositioning in cases of displacement
Retinal detachment surgeries: scleral buckling, pars plana vitrectomy using various tamponade agents (silicone oil, gas, air)
Subretinal and epiretinal membrane removal for proliferative vitreoretinopathy
Optic nerve radial neurotomy
Research & Clinical Innovation
The department has completed four research projects funded by international grants:

Optic nerve atrophy (NUS)
Pigmentary retinal dystrophy (NUS)
Taurine-based therapy
Vitrectomy studies (NUS)
Our Team
11 Ophthalmologists
6 Nurses
3 Clinical Assistants
2 Academic Staff from Yerevan State Medical University’s Department of Ophthalmology
All physicians have received advanced international training and regularly participate in international congresses.

The department performs approximately 120 surgeries every month.

Dr. Armen Vardanyan is the author of the doctoral thesis: "New Approaches to the Treatment of Complex Retinal Detachments and Other Retinal Disorders."

Contact Us
For appointments or more information, please call: 📞 (+374) 10 35 37 40 📞 (+374) 10 34 49 44

Originally established in 1978 as a trauma department, the current Vitreoretinal Surgery Center operates under the leadership of Dr. Armen Vardanyan, Professor at Yerevan State Medical University and Doctor of Medical Sciences. After completing advanced training in the U.S., Dr. Vardanyan launched Armenia’s first and only specialized Vitreoretinal Center in 1997, equipped with state-of-the-art surgical technology. The center performs all types of retinal detachment surgeries.

Since 1989, Dr. Vardanyan has also served as the Chief Ophthalmologist for the city of Yerevan and Consultant Ophthalmologist for the Ministry of Internal Affairs. In addition to his clinical work, he leads the residency program at the university’s Department of Ophthalmology, where he also teaches as a professor. He has participated in and organized numerous international conferences and has authored more than 45 scientific articles, many of which have been published abroad.

Recognizing that diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of blindness globally, Dr. Vardanyan spearheaded the creation of a task force in 2010, under a Yerevan City Hall initiative. This council—comprised of ophthalmologists and endocrinologists from across the city—works to prevent vision loss in diabetic patients.

Surgeries Performed in the Department
Primary wound care for penetrating eye injuries
Reconstructive surgeries following penetrating injuries
Full-thickness corneal transplants (penetrating keratoplasty)
Artificial iris implantation for post-traumatic aniridia
Iris and pupil reconstruction surgeries
Phacoemulsification or extracapsular cataract extraction with posterior chamber IOL placement (including scleral fixation techniques in cases of capsular rupture)
IOL implantation for congenital, post-traumatic, or post-surgical aphakia
IOL repositioning in case of lens displacement
Retinal detachment surgery (e.g., scleral buckling, pars plana vitrectomy) using silicone oil, gas, or air tamponade
Removal of subretinal or epiretinal membranes to treat proliferative vitreoretinopathy
Optic nerve radial neurotomy
Research & Grants
The department has completed four grant-funded research projects:

Optic nerve atrophy (NUS)
Pigmentary retinal dystrophy (NUS)
Effects of Taurine
Vitrectomy studies (NUS)
Team & Training
The department is staffed by:

11 ophthalmologists
6 nurses
3 clinical assistants
2 academic staff from the Department of Ophthalmology, Yerevan State Medical University
All doctors have undergone international training and regularly participate in international scientific events. The department performs approximately 120 surgeries per month.

Dr. Armen Vardanyan also authored a doctoral dissertation titled: "New Methods for Treating Complex Retinal Detachments and Other Retinal Disorders."

For Appointments or Inquiries
📞 (+374) 10 35 37 40 📞 (+374) 10 34 49 44

The Glaucoma Department has been an integral part of the S.V. Malayan Eye Center since its founding in 1978, when the center first operated as the Republican Glaucomatous-Trachomatous Dispensary. Its core mission was — and continues to be — the accurate diagnosis, treatment, and long-term care of patients with glaucoma.

History & Leadership
The department was originally led by Dr. Elmira Yeghiazaryan.
In 2000, under the leadership of Director Dr. A.S. Malayan, the Republican Glaucoma Center was established.
In 2001, this center was incorporated into the Glaucoma Department and has been directed ever since by Dr. Lilit Voskanian, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Yerevan State Medical University and Chair of the department since 2022.
Since the early 1990s, under the guidance of visiting U.S. specialists, including Dr. Richard Hill, the department has been shaped into a glaucoma service that meets international standards, with special emphasis on pediatric glaucoma, a field previously underserved in the region.

Equipment & Diagnostic Capabilities
Following advanced fellowship training in the U.S. (1999–2000), the department underwent a complete technological upgrade, enabling full diagnostic, treatment, and prevention services. The center now performs all major international-standard glaucoma diagnostics, including:

Gonioscopy with imaging (visualization of the anterior chamber angle)
Intraocular pressure (IOP) testing with multiple gold-standard methods
Visual field analysis, including Humphrey Visual Field Testing
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) using Heidelberg, Zeiss, and Optovue systems
Anterior chamber angle imaging via digital analysis
Ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) for detecting secondary glaucoma
Fluorescein angiography for vascular abnormalities
These tools enable early-stage diagnosis, which is crucial for preventing vision loss in glaucoma.

Laser Treatment Options
The department performs all modern, non-invasive laser procedures:

Laser Trabeculoplasty
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Laser Iridotomy (used for angle-closure glaucoma)
Laser Iridoplasty
Laser Pupilloplasty
These procedures avoid invasive surgery and help manage IOP safely and effectively.

Surgical Treatments
The department performs globally recognized surgical procedures, including:

Sinus Trabeculectomy with anti-scarring agents
Laser suture lysis, a post-op adjustment method unique in the region
Glaucoma stent implantation, including:Glaukos (USA) stents Ciliatech (France) supraciliary stents Sanoculis (Israel) MIMS and MINT microinvasive drainage procedures Preserflo MicroShunt, used at the center for over four years Ahmed Glaucoma Valve (AGV) implants, performed at Malayan for 30+ years Hydrus Microstent by Alcon, among the most advanced implants available today
Academic & Scientific Leadership
Over 100 students and 30 clinical residents train here annually.
Since 2007, the department has collaborated with Glaukos (USA), Siliatech (France), and Sanoculis (Israel) on clinical trials and device development.
It also works closely with Liqvor Pharmaceuticals to test and help develop anti-glaucoma medications, some of which are now distributed internationally.
Training & Wet Lab
The department operates dedicated sections in the center’s Wet Lab, the only one of its kind in the region. Here, residents and young ophthalmologists receive hands-on training in both surgical and laser glaucoma treatments.

Our Team
11 Ophthalmologists, including 3 PhDs
7 Nurses
4 Clinical Assistants

Excimer laser eye surgery is mainly used to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. It uses a laser beam to reshape the cornea in order to improve vision.

In cases of keratoconus, the use of this method is significantly limited and depends on the stage of the disease and the condition of the patient’s vision.

We discussed these and many other important issues with Lusine Bekirska-Tamazyan, ophthalmologist and microsurgeon at the S. Ohanian Department of Excimer Laser Surgery and Diagnostics of the S. V. Malayan Eye Center.

For consultation with an ophthalmologist, you can call: 091-32-83-53.

The Pediatric Department has been a core part of the Malayan Eye Center since its founding in 1978.

Since 2001, the department has been led by Dr. Ruzanna G. Harutyunyan, who also serves as an Associate Professor at the Department of Ophthalmology, Yerevan State Medical University.

In 2004, Dr. Harutyunyan defended her thesis on “Comparative Evaluation of Surgical Interventions for Congenital Glaucoma in Children.” She has received advanced training in both France and the United States.

Scope of Care
This is a multi-profile department, providing care for over 10,000 pediatric patients annually, with approximately 700 children undergoing surgery each year. All treatments and procedures adhere to modern international standards.

Conditions We Treat
Children are treated for a wide range of congenital and acquired eye conditions, including:

Refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism)
Inflammatory eye diseases
All forms of congenital and acquired glaucoma
Retinal and vitreous disorders
Congenital and acquired cataracts
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) – all stages and complications
Pediatric eye trauma (all types)
Congenital and acquired strabismus (crossed eyes)
Nasolacrimal duct obstructions (tear drainage system disorders)
Collaborations & Programs
The department actively collaborates with all clinical units within the center to provide comprehensive care for children. It also works closely with the “Light to Armenian Eyes” Armenian-American Foundation, and participates in major international scientific conferences.

Since 2010, under Dr. Harutyunyan’s leadership, the department has taken the lead in Armenia’s “Early Detection and Treatment of Retinopathy of Prematurity” program. Each year, more than 1,000 premature infants are screened and treated as needed, using the latest technologies in pediatric eye care.

Training & Outreach
Department physicians regularly participate in international pediatric ophthalmology training programs in countries like Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan.
Another team conducts screening programs across Armenia for preschool and school-aged children.
The department also provides online lectures and training for pediatric eye doctors in rural regions.
Expert Surgical Care
The department performs surgeries and offers high-level care for all pediatric eye conditions, ensuring young patients receive treatment that meets global standards.

Our Team
7 Pediatric Ophthalmologists
7 Pediatric Nurses
3 Medical Assistants
All staff undergo continuous medical education and professional development, keeping their skills aligned with today’s best practices in pediatric ophthalmology.

The Vitreoretinal Department at S.V. Malayan Eye Center has been operating since 1978, originally established as a trauma unit. It is currently headed by Dr. Armen Vardanyan, Professor of Ophthalmology at Yerevan State Medical University and Doctor of Medical Sciences.

After receiving advanced training in the United States, Dr. Vardanyan went on to launch Armenia’s only dedicated Vitreoretinal Center in 1997—built on the foundation of the former trauma division and fully equipped with modern surgical technology. The center performs comprehensive retinal detachment surgeries and is a regional leader in retinal care.

Leadership & Experience
Since 1989, Dr. Vardanyan has served as the Chief Ophthalmologist of Yerevan and a Consulting Ophthalmologist for the Ministry of Internal Affairs. He is also:

A professor at Yerevan State Medical University’s Department of Ophthalmology
Director of the university’s clinical residency program
A speaker and organizer at numerous international ophthalmology conferences
Author of over 45 medical publications, many of which have been published internationally
Recognizing the global threat of diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of blindness, Dr. Vardanyan spearheaded the creation of a citywide task force in 2010 under the direction of Yerevan City Hall. This initiative brings together ophthalmologists and endocrinologists to collaborate on prevention and treatment of diabetic eye complications.

Procedures & Surgeries Performed
Primary wound care for penetrating eye injuries
Reconstructive surgery following trauma
Full-thickness corneal transplant (penetrating keratoplasty)
Artificial iris implantation for post-traumatic aniridia
Iris and pupil reconstruction
Phacoemulsification or extracapsular cataract extraction with IOL placement (including scleral fixation techniques for capsular rupture)
IOL implantation in congenital, traumatic, or post-surgical aphakia
Repositioning of displaced intraocular lenses
Retinal detachment surgeries: scleral buckling, pars plana vitrectomy with tamponades (silicone oil, gas, air)
Removal of subretinal and epiretinal membranes in cases of proliferative vitreoretinopathy
Optic nerve radial neurotomy
Research & Innovation
The department has completed four major grant-funded research projects:

Optic nerve atrophy (NUS)
Pigmentary retinal dystrophy (NUS)
Taurine research
Vitrectomy studies (NUS)
Our Team
11 Ophthalmologists
6 Nurses
3 Medical Assistants
2 Faculty Members from Yerevan State Medical University’s Department of Ophthalmology
All physicians have received advanced training abroad and frequently participate in international conferences.

The department performs approximately 120 surgeries per month.

Dr. Armen Vardanyan is also the author of a doctoral dissertation titled: "New Methods for the Treatment of Complex Retinal Detachments and Other Retinal Disorders."

Contact Us
For questions or appointments, call: 📞 (+374) 10 35 37 40 📞 (+374) 10 34 49 44

The Anesthesiology Department at S. V. Malayan Ophthalmological Center fully meets modern standards. Our doctors are proficient in all current anesthesia methods, and the unit is equipped with the latest technology.

All surgeries are performed under anesthesiology supervision, which helps prevent complications related to the patient's overall health. Depending on indications (or patient request), general anesthesia or sedation is administered. Notably, our doctors are the only specialists in the region who use dexmedetomidine for sedation, ensuring both hemodynamic stability and patient comfort during surgery.

The department’s doctors ensure patient safety from the moment of admission to discharge, coordinating necessary medical care and consultations with other specialists.

The entire staff regularly undergoes training and actively participates in professional associations.

As a teaching base of the Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Department of Yerevan State Medical University, the team shares both theoretical and practical knowledge with students.

Thanks to on-call shifts, the department operates 24/7, ensuring continuous patient safety and comfort.

After the decision for surgery is made, every patient first receives a consultation with an anesthesiologist. During the consultation—based on a properly filled-out medical questionnaire—the doctor determines whether additional specialist consultation is needed or, if not, defines the type and depth of anesthesia. The whole process takes up to 5 minutes and allows surgery to proceed quickly, safely, and without waiting.

During surgery, we provide the following types of care:

Anesthetic monitoring – The patient is awake and pain-free under local anesthesia, connected to monitoring equipment. If needed, the anesthesiologist manages any fluctuations or complaints.
Anesthesiological sedation – Sedative medications are administered under monitoring, inducing a light sleep state.
General anesthesia