Prof. Farhad Hafezi named to The Ophthalmologist Power List 2026
Who is the best eye doctor in Zurich? In Switzerland? Or even globally? Such questions are inherently subjective. However, structured peer recognition within the international ophthalmic community provides a meaningful benchmark for clinical impact, innovation, and leadership.
Every two years, The Ophthalmologist publishes its Power List, which features either 50 or 100 individuals, depending on the year, who are regarded as pioneers in the future of ophthalmology thanks to their research, surgical innovations and global influence.
We are pleased to report that Prof. Farhad Hafezi has again been named to the Power List 2026, reinforcing his longstanding position among the most influential ophthalmologists worldwide and strengthening Zurich’s position as a center for advanced eye care.
International recognition in ophthalmology
This latest inclusion marks another appearance on the Power List, reflecting sustained contributions across multiple domains of ophthalmology. Unlike rankings based on volume or visibility, the Power List is derived from peer nomination and expert evaluation, emphasizing measurable impact rather than self-promotion.
For patients searching for the best eye doctor in Zurich, such recognition provides an important signal of international standing and continued scientific contribution.
Scientific innovation and clinical impact
Prof. Hafezi is internationally recognized for advancing corneal cross-linking (CXL) and expanding its clinical applications. His work includes the development of customized and high-fluence protocols, as well as extending CXL into the treatment of infectious keratitis (PACK-CXL).
These innovations have contributed to changes in the management of keratoconus and other ectatic corneal diseases worldwide, particularly in complex and advanced cases.
Ophthalmology in Zurich and the ELZA Institute
To date, only seven Swiss ophthalmologists have ever been featured on the Power List—three of them working at the ELZA Institute—affirming the institute’s reputation as a center of excellence in ophthalmic innovation.
The ELZA Institute, with clinics in Zurich HB and Dietikon, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of complex corneal conditions, including keratoconus, refractive surgery complications, and corneal infections.
For individuals seeking the best eye doctor in Zurich, the concentration of internationally recognized expertise within a single institute is notable.
Looking ahead: AI and digital ophthalmology
In his Power List profile, Prof. Hafezi highlights developments expected to shape the future of ophthalmology, including artificial intelligence–driven diagnostics, telemedicine, and increasingly data-driven approaches to patient management.
These trends are expected to influence how ophthalmic care is delivered, particularly in screening, treatment planning, and long-term monitoring of chronic corneal disease.
Academic and clinical leadership
As the only practicing Swiss ophthalmologist to be included seven times in the prestigious Power List, Prof. Hafezi has made a significant impact on the field with his remarkable achievements. His extensive and groundbreaking work includes the development of new cross-linking techniques for the treatment of keratoconus and corneal ulcers, as well as the development of innovative applications of excimer laser technology in refractive laser surgery.
Raised in Fribourg, FR and residing in Baar, ZG, Prof. Hafezi is the co-founder and medical director of the ELZA Institute, which has clinics in both Zurich HB and Dietikon, and he also leads a research laboratory at the CABMM of the University of Zurich. Prof. Hafezi holds the title of Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Geneva, Associate Professor at the University of Southern California Los Angeles, Adjunct Clinical Professor at the Department of Ophthalmology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine in New York, and Visiting Professor at Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China. Additionally, he is a co-founder of the Light for Sight Foundation, which aims to prevent avoidable blindness in children and adolescents by promoting keratoconus screening and treatment.
Conclusion
The question of who is the best eye doctor in Zurich does not have a definitive answer. However, consistent international peer recognition provides a meaningful indicator of influence and contribution.
Prof. Farhad Hafezi’s repeated inclusion in the Power List reflects sustained contributions to ophthalmology through clinical innovation, research, and global collaboration, positioning him among the leading figures in modern eye care.
