Bern Eye Center (Switzerland): Prof. Dr Franz Fankhauser

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Prof. Dr Franz Fankhauser is the head of the Bern Eye Center, a leading institution for modern ophthalmology and innovative eye surgery in the heart of Bern.

Prof. Fankhauser has over two decades of international experience and combines comprehensive conservative and surgical expertise—from cataract and glaucoma surgery to retinal treatments and state-of-the-art laser applications. Under his leadership, the institution is committed to a scientifically well-founded, holistic approach characterized by active research into early detection, high-end diagnostics, and individualized therapy.

Detect and Treat Glaucoma Early

Glaucoma develops gradually and often goes unnoticed for a long time. Because there is no pain or clear symptoms, those affected often only realize that their optic nerve has already been damaged at a late stage. For this reason, ophthalmological associations recommend regular preventive examinations to detect changes in time.

Prof. Dr Fankhauser has access to state-of-the-art procedures for checking intraocular pressure and reliably assessing the condition of the optic nerve. This means that even very early stages of the disease can be detected and targeted for treatment.

Treatment ranges from conservative measures, such as pressure-reducing eye drops, to surgical procedures if medication alone is insufficient. All measures aim to normalize intraocular pressure and improve blood flow to the optic nerve to prevent the disease from progressing.

Since the damage that has already occurred cannot be reversed, the focus is on early detection and consistent monitoring. This approach enables preservation of vision for as long as possible and significantly improves patients' everyday lives.

Greatest Expertise in Dry and Wet Macular Degeneration at the Bern Eye Center

Macular degeneration affects the area of the retina responsible for sharp vision in the center of the visual field. Patients often notice the disease when straight lines suddenly appear distorted or their central visual acuity declines. Since the macula is crucial for reading and recognizing faces, the disease significantly impacts quality of life.

The Bern Eye Center, headed by Prof. Dr Franz Fankhauser, has many years of experience in treating patients with dry and wet macular degeneration. While the dry form progresses slowly, wet macular degeneration can lead to significant vision loss within a short period due to uncontrolled vascular infiltration and bleeding. This is why fast diagnosis is particularly important.

Various treatment methods are available today, which are used depending on the form of the disease. In particular, the injection of antibodies into the interior of the eye has proven effective in treating wet macular degeneration. These antibodies target the excessive vascular growths and can thus significantly slow down bleeding and the progression of the disease. Follow-up examinations using state-of-the-art imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography, also help tailor treatment decisions to the individual patient.

Visual Impairments Caused by Retinal Diseases: Diagnosis and Treatment

The retina is a highly sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye that receives and transmits light stimuli. Diseases in this area can therefore lead to significant visual impairment. Retinal changes are widespread in connection with diabetes mellitus or age-related changes. Typical examples are diabetic retinopathy or various forms of retinal degeneration.

The eye specialists at the Bern Eye Center place great importance on thorough diagnostics. Modern examination methods, such as high-resolution imaging and specialized vascular imaging, enable the detection of pathological changes in the retina at an early stage. This allows treatment to be initiated in good time before permanent damage occurs.

Treatment depends on the type and extent of the disease. In addition to medication, laser treatments or surgical interventions are available if necessary. Thanks to the extensive experience of Prof. Franz Fankhauser and his team, even complex retinal conditions can be treated individually.

This combination of differentiated diagnostics, individualized therapy, and close monitoring enables stabilization of vision and the maintenance of the highest possible quality of life for patients.

Medical Specialist Evaluation of Retinal Changes in Early Detection

Many retinal diseases develop slowly and do not cause any noticeable symptoms at first. This is precisely why preventive care plays such a key role. At the Bern Eye Center, changes in the retina can be detected at an early stage using high-resolution examination methods.

These screening procedures enable the detection of even very minor abnormalities at an early stage and the monitoring of their progression. Regular check-ups offer the chance to prevent severe visual impairment, particularly in high-risk patients, such as those with diabetes or a familial predisposition.

Prof. Franz Fankhauser and his team attach great importance to explaining the examination results in a comprehensible manner and determining the further course of action together with the patients. This ensures that necessary therapies are initiated early and that vision is preserved for as long as possible.

Surgical Correction for Ectropion, Entropion, and Drooping Eyelids

Malposition of the eyelids is often not just a cosmetic problem, but can also impair vision and eye health. An outwardly turned eyelid (ectropion), an inwardly turned eyelid (entropion), or pronounced drooping eyelids often lead to irritation, watery eyes, or even a restricted field of vision.

At the Bern Eye Center, Prof. Dr Franz Fankhauser offers modern surgical procedures specifically to correct these changes. The methods are usually minimally invasive and carried out as gently as possible. The aim is to restore the natural shape and function of the eyelids, thereby providing lasting relief from symptoms.

In addition to functional improvement, cosmetic results also play an essential role. Thanks to many years of experience in eyelid surgery, a treatment method is chosen that combines medical necessity with esthetic harmony.

Please visit the Bern Eye Center website for more information.