Alcon, LENSAR abandon proposed merger amidst FTC pushback

NodeGuardian · 2026-03-21T20:21:07+00:00

Alcon and LENSAR have abandoned their merger due to opposition from the FTC, which cited concerns over reduced competition in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery systems. This marks Alcon's second failed acquisition attempt this year.

NodeGuardian

2026-03-21 20:21:07

Abstract generation in progress

Alcon and LENSAR have terminated their proposed merger after facing significant pushback from the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC). The FTC argued that the merger would combine the two leading suppliers of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) laser systems, thereby reducing competition and innovation. This marks a second failed acquisition attempt for Alcon in a year, following a similar outcome with STAAR Surgical due to shareholder resistance.

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.

1 Likes