JEC’s Prof. DR. Dr. Yunia Irawati, SpM(K) Appointed as Professor of Ophthalmology at Universitas Indonesia

Jakarta, February 5, 2025 – Universitas Indonesia (UI) has officially inaugurated Prof. DR. Dr. Yunia Irawati, SpM(K) as a Professor at the Faculty of Medicine, specializing in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. This highest academic recognition honors her outstanding contributions to advancing oculoplastic and reconstructive eye surgery in Indonesia—particularly in addressing eyelid disorders that significantly impact vision health and, in turn, national productivity.

This appointment makes Prof. Yunia the fourth ophthalmologist from JEC Eye Hospitals & Clinics to be recognized as a professor at Indonesia’s most prestigious medical institution.

Pioneering Advancements in Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Eye Surgery

In her inaugural speech, Prof. Yunia delivered a lecture entitled:

“Perspectives in Oculoplastic and Reconstructive Surgery: Therapeutic and Rehabilitative Approaches to Address Health Challenges from the Individual to the National Level in Support of Productivity.”

Currently, Prof. Yunia serves as:

• Head of Trauma Center, Division of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, JEC Eye Hospitals & Clinics
• President of the Indonesian Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (INASOPRS)
• President of the Indonesia Ophthalmic Trauma Society (INAOTS)
• Lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia (FKUI)

Her dedication has advanced both clinical practice and academic development in the field of reconstructive eye surgery.

Innovation: The “Yunia Technique” for Leprosy-Related Eyelid Disorders

One of Prof. Yunia’s key innovations is the Yunia Technique—a modified, cost-effective tarsorrhaphy method to treat lagophthalmos (the inability to fully close the eyelids), a condition commonly affecting leprosy patients.

The Yunia Technique has been proven to be just as effective as the conventional gold weight implant method, but at a fraction of the cost, making it more accessible for underprivileged communities. This groundbreaking work earned her a doctoral degree in 2021 and has positioned her as a leader in global ophthalmic reconstructive innovation.

KATAMATAKU UI: Comprehensive Support for Leprosy Patients

Beyond surgical innovation, Prof. Yunia also initiated KATAMATAKU UI, a holistic program supporting patients, survivors, and communities affected by leprosy in Indonesia. Since its launch in 2018, the initiative has combined healthcare, anti-stigma education, and agro-economic empowerment, aiming to:

Promote health through preventive, curative, and rehabilitative services.

Eliminate stigma by educating the public that leprosy is a bacterial infection—treatable and manageable—not a curse.

Empower communities economically through skills training and sustainable livelihood projects.

The program involves collaboration across faculties at Universitas Indonesia, as well as partnerships with government, private sector, and NGOs. In 2024, the initiative expanded into education with the establishment of KATAMATAKU Alumni, integrating experiential learning through the Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (MBKM) – Elective Posting Program.

Driving Eye Health for National Productivity

“Optimal eye health is fundamental for work productivity, which in turn drives the sustainability of our nation’s economy. While cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness, eyelid disorders—such as lagophthalmos—can also lead to serious vision problems, from corneal damage to total blindness. Through innovation, research, and collaboration, we can provide solutions that truly impact lives and national productivity” – Prof. Dr. dr. Yunia Irawati, SpM(K)

Her academic journey and professional milestones underline her mission to improve vision care in Indonesia, reduce preventable blindness, and contribute to building a healthier, more productive society.

Continuing JEC’s Legacy of Academic Excellence

Prof. Yunia’s appointment follows the legacy of other distinguished JEC ophthalmologists who have also been appointed Professors at FKUI:

• The late Prof. DR. Istiantoro Sukardi, SpM(K) – JEC co-founder, cataract and corneal surgery expert.
• Prof. DR. Tjahjono D. Gondhowiarjo, SpM(K), PhD – cataract and corneal specialist, Director of Education & Development at JEC.
• Prof. DR. Widya Artini Wiyogo, SpM(K) – glaucoma expert, Head of JEC Glaucoma Service and Director of JEC Institute of Education & Research.

With this appointment, JEC Eye Hospitals & Clinics strengthens its reputation not only as Indonesia’s leader in advanced ophthalmology but also as a hub for medical education, research, and innovation.