What is the difference between PRK, LASEK, and Trans-PRK?

Trans-PRK is the only method that works completely touch-free ('No-Touch'). The laser removes the epithelium and corrects the vision in one step.

How long is one unable to work after Trans-PRK?

Expect 5 to 7 days. Vision is blurred for the first 3 days.

Is Trans-PRK painful?

The treatment itself is painless. Healing (days 1-3) can be uncomfortable but is treated with medication.

Laser eye surgery Zurich-Switzerland

Trans-PRK in Zurich: Touch-Free Eye Laser Surgery & SmartSurfACE Technology

SCHWIND SmartSurfACE technology enables touch-free eye treatment using light, which minimizes stress. By avoiding a corneal incision (flap), the uppermost protective layer regenerates in 3–5 days, ensuring maximum long-term corneal stability. SmartSight (lenticule extraction) is offered as a faster alternative without a flap. Options include 'Standard' for diopter correction and 'Customized' (wavefront) to correct the individual corneal fingerprint for improved contrast and night vision. Treatment is performed in Zurich by Dr. Victor Derhartunian, who specializes in 7D laser technology and complex cases.

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Trans-PRK in Zurich: Where Swiss Precision Meets Uncompromising Safety

When it comes to your eyesight, there is no room for compromise in Zurich. Trans-PRK (Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy) is the most technologically advanced evolution of classic surface treatments. As a true “no-touch” procedure, it functions entirely without an incision and without a suction ring.

In our practice at Rennweg, we do not use this procedure as a “last resort,” but as the instrument of choice for patients who demand maximum biomechanical stability. It is the preferred method for active individuals who want to enjoy Lake Zurich in summer and the Alps in winter without restrictions.

Zurich Excellence: Practice located directly on Rennweg / Bahnhofstrasse
Technology Leader: SCHWIND AMARIS 1050RS (Made in Germany)
Top Surgeon: Dr. V. Derhartunian (FEBO & FWCRS Expertise)
Safety Guarantee: No flap risk (Maximum stability)

Our Technology: SCHWIND Trans-PRK with SmartSurfACE

Many clinics offer “PRK”. At EyeLaser Zurich, we use the SmartSurfACE technology. That’s the difference between a “plane” and a “high-gloss polish.”

The SmartSurfACE Principle:
Conventional lasers often leave a microscopically rough surface on the cornea. Our AMARIS 1050RS laser uses the SmartPulse process. It not only models the cornea but also “polishes” it to be extremely smooth at the same time.

The advantage: The epithelium (the surface layer) regrows faster and more evenly over this mirror-smooth surface.
The result: Visual acuity returns faster (the “wow effect” is often felt shortly after surgery) and the healing phase is significantly more comfortable than with old PRK methods.

No flap, but fit faster? The SmartSight Alternative

We know that many patients in Zurich have demanding professional schedules (banking, IT, consulting) and cannot afford a week off, yet still do not want a corneal incision (as with classic LASIK). For these specific patients, we offer SmartSight.

The Duel of the “Flap-Free” Methods:

Trans-PRK (SmartSurfACE)

Principle: surface ablation. The laser shapes the surface.
Incision: 0 mm (Completely touch-free).
Pain: 2–3 days of foreign body sensation.
Visual recovery: 1 week until fit for work.
Ideal for: Thin corneas, martial arts, police, maximum tissue preservation.

SmartSight (Lenticule Extraction)

Principle: keyhole technique. The laser creates a small disc inside the cornea, which is then removed.
Incision: Minimal (approx. 2 mm opening).
Pain: Virtually painless.
Visual recovery: 1–2 days until fit for work.
Ideal for: Patients with higher myopia who need to return to work immediately.

Our Recommendation:
If your cornea is thick enough and you desire fast healing, SmartSight is often the more comfortable choice. If your cornea is very thin or has irregular shapes, Trans-PRK remains the undefeated champion of safety.

Free yourself from the limitations of glasses and contact lenses with ultra-gentle TransPRK

Discover how this laser eye surgery alternative can change your life without touching your eye

Prices in Zurich: Transparent & All-Inclusive

We believe in transparency instead of hidden costs. Our prices are per eye and include the preliminary examination, the treatment, medication, and all follow-up checks in the first year.

Trans-PRK Standard (Aberration-Free): CHF 1,500 / eye
The proven solution. This profile corrects your prescription (sphere, cylinder) and preserves the natural shape of the cornea. Ideal for “normal” eyes without specific night vision problems.

Trans-PRK Custom (Wavefront-guided): CHF 2,500 / eye
The tailor-made suit for your eye. We use diagnostic data to correct your individual corneal “fingerprint.”

The difference: We also correct higher-order aberrations (such as coma or trefoil).
Your benefit: Better contrast vision, more brilliant colors, and significantly improved night vision (fewer halos/starbursts).

For comparison – SmartSight: CHF 2,500 / eye
The premium solution for maximum comfort and the fastest healing without a flap.

The EyeLaser Suitability Check (Traffic Light System)

🟢 Green light (Ideal): Thin cornea, martial artists (boxing, MMA), police/military, fear of eye incisions, mild to moderate myopia.

🟡 Yellow light (Clarification needed): Very high myopia (over -7 dpt), very dry eyes (prior therapy required).

🔴 Red light (Not suitable): Farsightedness (hyperopia), unstable keratoconus, pregnancy/breastfeeding.

Gain Clarity in 15 Minutes at Rennweg

Unsure whether Trans-PRK or SmartSight is better? You don’t have to decide right now.
Visit EyeLaser Zurich. We measure your corneal thickness and structure with micrometer precision. Then we will tell you honestly: “For your eyes and your lifestyle, method X is the safest choice.”

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FAQ – The 15 Most Common Questions for Zurich & Switzerland

We have analyzed the most frequent search queries and patient questions from the Zurich region and answer them for you here.

What is the exact difference between PRK, LASEK, and Trans-PRK?

PRK is the original method (mechanical scraping). LASEK uses alcohol to loosen the surface layer. Die Trans-PRK is the only method that works without contact (“No-Touch”). The laser removes the epithelium and corrects the prescription in a single step, increasing precision and speeding up healing.

Does Swiss health insurance (KVG) pay for eye laser surgery?

Mandatory basic insurance (KVG) usually does not cover the costs, as it is considered “lifestyle medicine.” There are exceptions for very high diopter differences between both eyes or intolerance to contact lenses/glasses, but these are strictly reviewed.

Does supplementary insurance (VVG) contribute to the costs?

Yes, this is very often the case. Many Swiss supplementary insurance providers (e.g., Helsana, Swica, CSS) contribute between CHF 500 and CHF 1,000 per eye toward refractive surgery. We recommend checking your policy in advance.

Can I deduct the costs from my taxes in Zurich?

In many cantons (including Zurich), medical costs not covered by insurance can be deducted as “extraordinary burdens,” provided they exceed 5% of net income. As this is individual, you should consult with your tax advisor.

How long will I be unable to work after Trans-PRK?

Realistically, plan for 5 to 7 days. In the first 3 days, vision is blurred and eyes are sensitive to light. For office work in Zurich, we often recommend scheduling the surgery on a Thursday/Friday and taking the following week off.

Is SmartSight better than Trans-PRK?

“Better” is relative. SmartSight heals faster and is more comfortable (less pain). However, Trans-PRK is more “tissue-saving” and can also repair corneal irregularities. If you have an extremely thin cornea, Trans-PRK is “better” (safer). If you want comfort, SmartSight is “better.”

I travel a lot by tram and car in Zurich. When can I drive again?

You can use public transport (VBZ) immediately with sunglasses. Driving is only permitted once we confirm the legal visual performance during a follow-up check. With Trans-PRK, this is usually the case after 10 to 14 days.

How severe is the pain really?

We don’t sugarcoat it: Trans-PRK is not painless during healing. Days 1 to 3 are uncomfortable (foreign body sensation, tearing, light sensitivity). However, we provide you with strong painkillers and anesthetic drops so that the phase is manageable. From day 4, a sudden improvement usually occurs.

Can I go swimming in Lake Zurich?

Due to the risk of infection from bacteria in natural waters, you should wait at least 2 weeks (preferably 3) until the epithelium is completely closed.

Is skiing in the Alps a problem after surgery?

The dry high-altitude air and strong UV radiation are the challenges. Skiing is possible again after about 2 weeks, but a high-quality ski goggles with 100% UV protection are an absolute must in the mountains for the first 6 months to avoid scarring (haze).

Why is EyeLaser more expensive than some offers abroad?

Quality and safety have their price. In Zurich, we use the latest generation of lasers (no depreciated old equipment), offer “all-inclusive” care (no hidden costs for complications), and you are treated by Dr. Derhartunian (FWCRS), not by rotating junior doctors. Furthermore, Swiss law and hygiene standards apply.

What happens if I move my eye during surgery?

Nothing serious. Our SCHWIND AMARIS laser features a 7D Eyetracking. It monitors the eye position over 1,000 times per second. At the slightest movement, the laser corrects the beam or stops immediately and automatically.

Does the result last a lifetime?

The lasered tissue does not grow back. The result is permanent. However, from around age 45-50, natural presbyopia occurs (reading glasses), which affects every eye. A lens replacement (PresbyMAX) can then help with this.

Is there a risk of night blindness?

With older lasers, that was an issue. With our wavefront-guided (Custom) treatment, we often even improve night vision compared to glasses, as we correct scattering (aberrations) that no spectacle lens can compensate for.

Am I too old for Trans-PRK?

There is no strict upper limit, but from around age 50, lens replacement (RLE) is often the more sensible method, as it also corrects presbyopia. Trans-PRK is ideal between the ages of 18 and 45.