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, O oftalmologista publishes its Lista de potência, 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 Instituto ELZA-afirmando a reputação do instituto como um centro de excelência em inovação oftalmológica.
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
Sendo o único oftalmologista suíço em atividade a ser incluído cinco vezes na prestigiada Power List, o Prof. Hafezi teve um impacto significativo na área com os seus feitos notáveis. O seu trabalho extenso e inovador inclui o desenvolvimento de novas técnicas de reticulação para o tratamento de ceratocone e úlceras da córnea, bem como o desenvolvimento de aplicações inovadoras da tecnologia excimer laser na cirurgia refractiva a laser.
Hafezi é cofundador e diretor médico do Instituto ELZA, que tem clínicas em Zurique HB e em Dietikon, e dirige também um laboratório de investigação no CABMM da Universidade de Zurique. O Prof. Hafezi tem o título de Professor de Oftalmologia no Universidade de GenebraProfessor associado do Universidade do Sul da Califórnia, Los AngelesProfessor Clínico Adjunto no Departamento de Oftalmologia da Escola de Medicina Grossman da NYU em Nova Iorque, e professor convidado na Universidade de Medicina de WenzhouWenzhou, China. Além disso, é cofundador da Fundação Light for Sightque tem por objetivo prevenir a cegueira evitável em crianças e adolescentes, promovendo o rastreio e o tratamento do ceratocone.
Conclusão
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.
