Refractive Surgery
Seeing without glasses or contact lenses
Refractive surgery includes all techniques aimed at correcting visual defects in order to reduce or even eliminate dependence on glasses and contact lenses.
This surgery is intended for motivated patients whose vision correction is stable and whose eyes meet well-defined safety criteria (corneal thickness, corneal quality, absence of certain conditions, etc.).
Which visual defects can be corrected?
Refractive surgery mainly makes it possible to correct: myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
The type of visual defect and its severity guide the choice of technique (PRK, LASIK, SMILE, ICL).
Who can benefit from refractive surgery?
In general, refractive surgery may be considered if:
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- You are over 18 years old (often 20–21 years old depending on stability)
- Your vision correction has been stable for at least 2 years
- You do not have a progressive eye disease
- You are not pregnant or breastfeeding at the time of the procedure
Only a comprehensive examination can confirm your eligibility and determine the most suitable technique for your eyes.
Before any surgery, a specialized assessment is carried out in our clinic and includes the following examinations:
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- Precise measurement of vision correction (refraction), for near and distance vision
- Corneal tomography: detailed mapping of the shape and regularity of the cornea
- Pachymetry: measurement of corneal thickness
- Examination of the anterior segment (cornea, lens) and the retina
- Measurement of intraocular pressure
- Discussion of your visual expectations, profession, and leisure activities (sports, hobbies, etc.)
This assessment makes it possible to rule out contraindications, choose the most appropriate technique, and clearly inform you about the expected benefits and potential risks.
Main refractive surgery techniques
Several techniques are available, often based on excimer laser or femtosecond laser technology, with or without intraocular implants:
LASIK: creation of a thin corneal flap using a femtosecond laser, followed by corneal reshaping with an excimer laser. Visual recovery is rapid.
PRK / Trans-PRK: surface treatment without a flap, after removal of the corneal epithelium. This technique is preferred for certain thin corneas or specific situations.
SMILE: a minimally invasive technique using a femtosecond laser to remove a lenticule from the cornea through a small incision.
Phakic implants (ICL): a lens implanted inside the eye, in front of the natural lens, suitable for high corrections or when the cornea is not ideal for laser treatment.
The choice of technique depends on your vision correction, cornea, age, and visual needs.
How is the procedure performed?
Refractive surgery is most often performed:
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- On an outpatient basis: you go home the same day
- Under local anesthesia (eye drops), sometimes combined with a mild sedative
- In a few minutes per eye, including preparation time
You generally do not feel pain, but may experience pressure or a sensation of contact. Vision may be blurred or hazy during the first hours and then gradually improves.
Eye drops (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, and artificial tears) are prescribed after surgery to promote healing and visual comfort.
After surgery, it is common to experience:
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- A gritty sensation, burning, or tearing for a few days
- Visual fluctuations during the first weeks
- Temporary dry eye, requiring artificial tears
- Perception of halos or glare at night in some patients
As with any medical procedure, refractive surgery involves rare but serious risks (infection, irregular healing, under- or over-correction, alteration of visual quality). These aspects are discussed in detail during the consultation.
Regular follow-up after the procedure ensures proper healing and confirms the visual outcome.
Want to reduce your dependence on glasses?
If you would like to know whether you are a good candidate for refractive surgery, a simple appointment allows us to perform a complete assessment and discuss the available options.
Book an appointment by phone at +41 (0) 22 346 46 00 or via our online booking system.
