About Us
Pioneering vision correction with world-class technology and expertise in the
heart of Melbourne.
Our History
Melbourne Excimer Laser Group (MELG) has existed as an entity since 1991 and was originally sited within the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital and the then Department of Ophthalmology (now Centre for Eye Research Australia [CERA]). In 1995 MELG was relocated to a larger premise at 160 Victoria Parade (current location).
MELG was founded by 23 surgeons from both Victoria and Tasmania which include Prof Noel Alpins (Current director), Prof Hugh Taylor, A/Prof Grant Snibson (retired). They were joined by other respected surgeons like Dr Mark Cherny, Dr Robert Nave and Dr Michael Loughnan (who have all retired).
Since its inception, MELG has been at the forefront of excimer laser refractive surgery in Victoria and Australia. Starting as Victoria’s first excimer laser centre in 1991, MELG quickly became a leader in both clinical innovation and research. With a longstanding partnership with the University of Melbourne and Royal Victorian Eye & Ear Hospital, it has contributed significant studies, education, and advancements in vision correction.
Today, MELG continues to lead in both refractive and therapeutic excimer laser procedure, expanding treatment options and offering eye specialists and patients access to cutting‑edge technology and expert care in East Melbourne
Our Technology
outcomes for our patients and surgeons.
Excimer Laser
SCHWIND AMARIS 1050RS
Fastest excimer laser available
1,050 pulses per second → ~1.3 s of ablation per dioptre for minimal dryness and maximum comfort
7D eye tracking
continuously monitors and compensates for all eye movements during treatment
0.54 mm laser spot + Automatic Fluence Level Adjustment (AFLA)
treating corneal surface via optimised tiered energy levels to allow smooth healing post-treatment.
Femtosecond Laser - INTRALASE
INTRALASE
Bladeless femtosecond laser with low energy pulses
Create a highly customised, uniform corneal cut without a blade. It is used in the first step of LASIK to create a corneal flap.
Safe biomechanics
LASIK flap creation takes only ~15–45 seconds per eye, leading to quick restoration of vision. Uniform flap thickness preserves corneal strength and reduces structural weakening of cornea.
Enhanced customization
Advanced features to tailor cut patterns and parameters—ideal for refractive correction, keratoplasty, intracorneal inlays and more
Our Surgeons
At MELG, we’re privileged to work with a team of highly experienced surgeons who are
passionately dedicated to their surgical craft.
Our Director
Prof Noel Alpins (AM) FWCRS
CATARACT & REFRACTIVE SURGEON
Ophthalmologists
Interested in operating with MELG? Our surgeon-friendly facility and flexible scheduling provide an exceptional environment for your practice.
Optometrists
Refer your patients for an obligation-free screening. We are committed to helping them feel informed and confident about their options.