Toomac's Mark Taylor and Ian MacFarlane

Toomac Ophthalmic has taken over the agency for all Bausch + Lomb’s surgical portfolio. Previously Toomac distributed B+L’s synergetic products, while its surgical products were sold by Radiant Health.

In a letter to customers in December, B+L said the move was to streamline its business in New Zealand. Toomac director Ian MacFarlane said he’s very pleased to be bringing all B+L’s surgical products under one umbrella, especially as the range complements the company’s wider suite of surgical and VR products. “B+L’s surgical products, including the latest anterior and posterior-combined phaco units, fit perfectly with our already world class Haag Streit operating microscope systems and Brumaba operating tables. We believe we can now offer a total solution in one package which will benefit the customer in the long term.”

Fresh from the UK, South-African born Graham Brown has joined Toomac’s team to help support the B+L agency. Brown was previously international sales director for VisionCare Ophthalmic Technologies, manufacturer of an implantable miniature telescope (IMT) for patients with end-stage AMD, and Spectrum Ophthalmic. He says he’s looking forward to his new role. “I am very optimistic about this role and the opportunities it presents because B+L has recently launched its new phacoemulsification and VR surgical system and is about to launch some other very innovative and game changing technologies.”

The B+L surgical portfolio includes Stellaris phaco machines, consumables and accessories, Synergetics, Storz instruments and all B+L’s IOLs. All other B+L products, including its contact lenses and accessories will continue to be distributed by Radiant.

MacFarlane and Toomac’s ophthalmic manager Mark Taylor will be at the Cornea and Contact Lens Society meeting in Rotorua at the end of this month to answer any questions.