Global Specialty Lens Symposium - GSLS 2027
Event Date
February 3–6, 2027
Location
Las Vegas, NV
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryThe Global Specialty Lens Symposium (GSLS) is widely regarded as the leading global contact lens conference, bringing together eye care professionals from around the world for several days of specialty lens education. Brought to you by Contact Lens Spectrum (Conexiant Vision), the event focuses on the successful management of ocular conditions using today's specialty contact lenses through expert-led education, cutting-edge research, hands-on workshops, and peer networking.
GSLS attracts a global audience of optometrists, ophthalmologists, contact lens fitters, researchers, and industry leaders, with delegates traveling from dozens of countries. The 2027 program offers 33 hours of COPE- and NCLE-accredited continuing education (pending accreditation), with sessions sponsored by The Ohio State University College of Optometry.
The symposium is worth attending for professionals who want to stay at the forefront of specialty lens practice — covering scleral and gas-permeable lenses, orthokeratology, myopia management, ocular surface disease, and irregular cornea management. Beyond education, attendees gain access to the latest technologies and products from leading exhibitors and the chance to connect with globally recognized speakers and colleagues.
Show Highlights
- 33 hours of continuing education (COPE- and NCLE-accredited, pending accreditation), sponsored by The Ohio State University College of Optometry.
- Interactive educational formats including expert panel discussions, breakout lecture sessions, and clinical workshops.
- Topics spanning contact lenses, ocular surface disease, myopia management, orthokeratology, and irregular corneas.
- An exhibit hall featuring the latest specialty lens technologies and products from leading manufacturers.
- Poster presentations, networking events, and interactive activities such as the Explorer Challenge and Discovery Hunt.
- Globally recognized faculty of specialty lens experts and researchers.
Attendance
GSLS draws an international audience, with the organizer describing it as the leading global contact lens conference with delegates attending from over 80 countries and reporting 850+ international delegates. For the 2026 edition at Paris Las Vegas, the host venue projected roughly 600 attendees, with approximately 48 speakers on the program. The audience is composed primarily of optometrists, ophthalmologists, and other eye care professionals.
Registration
Registration for GSLS 2027 is open. To register and learn more, attendees should visit the official GSLS website at gslsymposium.com.
- Registration provides access to accredited continuing education sessions, the exhibit hall, and networking events.
- Prospective presenters submitted continuing education course proposals through the GSLS Education Committee, with a 2027 submission deadline of 5:00 PM ET on Thursday, April 16, 2026; selected presenters were notified by June 30, 2026.
Check the official website for current pass types, pricing tiers, and any early-registration deadlines.
History
GSLS is an established annual conference presented by Contact Lens Spectrum and has been held for many years in Las Vegas as the premier event for the specialty contact lens community. Recent editions include GSLS 2024 (January 17–20) and GSLS 2026 (January 6–9), both at Paris Las Vegas. Over time the symposium has grown into an internationally recognized event, drawing 850+ delegates from more than 80 countries and expanding its education program to include topics such as myopia management and ocular surface disease alongside core specialty lens content.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is GSLS 2027 taking place?
The 2027 Global Specialty Lens Symposium takes place February 3–6, 2027, at Paris Las Vegas on the Las Vegas Strip in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Who should attend GSLS?
GSLS is designed for eye care professionals, including optometrists, ophthalmologists, contact lens fitters, researchers, and industry leaders interested in specialty contact lenses. It draws an international audience with delegates from more than 80 countries.
How many continuing education hours does GSLS offer?
The 2027 program offers 33 hours of COPE- and NCLE-accredited continuing education (pending accreditation), with all sessions sponsored by The Ohio State University College of Optometry.
How do I register for GSLS 2027?
Registration is open and can be completed through the official GSLS website at gslsymposium.com, where you can also find full program details and pass information.
What topics are covered at GSLS?
Sessions cover specialty contact lenses, ocular surface disease, myopia management, and related fields, delivered through expert panel discussions, breakout lectures, and hands-on clinical workshops. An exhibit hall showcases the latest technologies and products from leading manufacturers.
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