What disorders does refractive surgery treat?

Refractive surgery is one of the key areas of my work. We correct various visual defects by means of refractive surgery, such as myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), astigmatism (an imperfection in the curvature of the cornea) or presbyopia (gradual age-related loss of the eyes’ ability to focus on nearby objects). We use various methods to do this. The most important are laser corrections or surgical corrections with the implant of an artificial lens in the eye.

Preliminary consultation and diagnosis

During a special consultation, we discuss the needs and possibilities in detail. It is vital that we reconcile the expectations of a surgical refractive intervention with the practical possibilities. Only then will the result be to the patient’s satisfaction. It is a matter of comparing the various alternatives and ultimately finding an optimal solution.

Surgery

The operation takes place at one of several clinics, depending on the surgical procedure that is most suitable for correcting the ametropia.

Laser vision correction

Laser vision correction can be used to treat astigmatism, myopia, or hyperopia. If this procedure is suitable for you, then the operation will take place at Laser Vista in Zurich. We can perform corrections up to a certain degree with this procedure—for more severe deviations, however, a surgical procedure is necessary.

Implant of a supplementary intraocular lens

This procedure involves implanting an artificial lens into the eye, which is placed in front of the patient’s own lens, and thus allows us to correct more significant deviations, such as high myopia. We use this procedure instead of laser vision correction or when laser vision correction is not possible, for example in the case of severe deviations or corneal diseases. A major advantage of this procedure is that the operation is reversible, that is to say the inserted lens can be removed again. I work with what is known as Vision ICL, which is well established. A minor operation is all it takes to insert this elegant lens.

Implant of a supplementary intraocular lens in place of the patient’s own lens

During this procedure, either the patient’s own clear lens (clear lens extraction) or the already clouded lens is removed (cataract).

After surgery

You will be able to go home after the procedure if you have somebody to accompany you. The following day, I remove the dressing over the eye and do a first follow-up examination. You will see clearly again within just a few hours or days and enjoy an improved quality of vision. There are three follow-up appointments altogether. During this time, it is necessary to use eye drops for about four weeks.