The Medical Center

Modern both Inside and Out

With a modern and attractive architecture, the Medical Center, inaugurated in 1991, reveals contemporary glass façades, combining light play and the magical reflections of the lake and mountains.

A number of services are provided near the operating suites and the medical examination rooms:

Medical checkup department
Esthetic Medicine Center
Dental Clinic
Musculoskeletal System Skills Center
Weight Management Service
Menopause Center
Sleep Center
Radiology and Medical Imaging Institute

The Residence

A Majestic Early 20th-century Hotel

With its extraordinary cachet, its hardwood floors, cozy decor and French garden, Clinique La Prairie’s original building is reminiscent of the opulent charm of early 20th-century grand hotels.

It houses the Clinique’s two laboratories as well as the neurology department, the psychological wellness center and the physical therapy center.
The Residence also offers seven air-conditioned rooms and two air-conditioned suites, each with a balcony offering an exceptional view of the lake and the Alps.
THE CHATEAU

Twenty-four Bright New Rooms and Suites

We offer you all the charm and comfort of a five-star hotel at the Château, a late 19th-century monument that was fully restored during the summer of 2005. Located on the top of the hill, it overlooks the entire Clinique La Prairie complex and offers 17 rooms, six junior suites and one suite, all luxuriously appointed and with gorgeous terraces offering panoramic views of the pleasure port, the lake and the Alps.

The Gardens

Stroll through a Treasure Trove of Greenery

Relaxation and tranquility are the goal of these green spaces, with their ancient trees and refined French gardens which you can enjoy as you stroll from the Residence to the Medical Center. This natural backdrop beautifully sets off the buildings of Clinique La Prairie for the pleasure of the eyes and a wonderful sensation of well-being.

Medical SPA

Take time out from your routine for beauty, energy and re-balancing treatments in the soothing surroundings of our holistic retreat on the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva. Our unrivaled team of therapists combines expert knowledge of contemporary sciences and ancient healing philosophies with results-driven, state-of-the-art technology to assure an exceptional experience. Enjoy a carefully crafted range of signature face and body treatments as part of a standalone well-being program or with the work of our aesthetic medical team.

Our treatments take place in serene, sophisticated rooms and use our exclusive range of anti-aging Swiss Perfection products. While you are here, enjoy our Spa facilities, which include an indoor swimming pool with breathtaking views of the mountains. Visit our vitality pool, steam room, traditional saunas, Kneipp path, relaxation room and our indoor-outdoor Café Spa.

Enjoy the lounge specifically designed for consultations, while those seeking complete privacy can enjoy our discreet VIP Spa suite.

Let us take care of your body and mind so you emerge rested, replenished and completely restored.

Health Club

Situated in the heart of the world’s most exclusive clinic, the Spa offers an integrated solution and a holistic approach to meet your every need in terms of fitness, wellness and treatments. Its ambition is to give your body the attention it deserves, helping you live better and optimize your health capital.

A veritable haven of peace and tranquility, the Spa covers an area of 1600 square meters. It has 15 treatment rooms, a private treatment room, a manicure studio, an indoor swimming pool, a Kneipp course, a Jacuzzi, a sauna, an ice fountain and a relaxation room. The Café Spa offers a selection of fruit juices, smoothies and specially prepared meals, and goes one step further towards making your stay with us a unique experience.

The “Health Club” subscription includes the expertise of our specialist doctors and experienced personal trainers, dietitians and therapists, ensuring comprehensive and continuous management of your well-being by offering personalized programs adapted to your requirements.

The Clinique La Prairie Health Club offers a unique holistic approach, with cutting-edge facilities and levels of service and comfort meeting the very highest standards.

A true invitation to well-being and better living.

A broad range of medical services:

Beyond and in addition to the revitalization treatments using CLP cellular extract which gave Clinique La Prairie its global renown, we have developed a broad range of medical services. Today, we can offer a wide variety of specialized consultations and surgical services, all of which follow the clinic’s general philosophy. Our main goal is to fight the effects of aging, while improving your quality of life. An Incomparable Offer of Complementary Paramedical Services

Our comprehensive approach to patient health does not involve just medical services: often appropriate paramedical services are added to a personalized treatment program. Clique La Prairie constantly develops its services in this field, so that patients can benefit, according to their needs or desires, from the positive effects of acuaspiration, yoga, sophrology or various relaxation techniques such as hypnosis or specific kinds of massage.

A Tailor-made General Medical Checkup

Good health is maintained through regular checkups beginning around the age of 35, to identify any problems at an early stage and successfully treat them. This is why any stay at Clinique La Prairie begins with a medical checkup. In addition to a detailed clinical exam, the standard checkup includes laboratory tests, a chest x-ray and an electrocardiogram. It may also often include an abdominal ultrasound and additional tests suggested by the physician, based on the specific needs and characteristics of each person.

This checkup will determine in large part the care offered to the patient during his or her stay (diet, physical activity, medication, etc.). Should previously undiagnosed problems be found, additional exams and therapies may be immediately undertaken.

All results are available in less than 48 hours, and the physician then discusses the medical checkup with the patient. Practical advice can be given to help the patient modify his or her lifestyle and maintain these changes after his or her departure from the clinic. If the patient wishes, this follow-up can be done at Clinique La Prairie, in ambulatory care.

The medical checkup proposed at Clinique La Prairie is a complete evaluation of your health condition. This program is intended for any resident or foreigner, businessman or woman, artist, sportsman wishing a complete checkup or a second, clearer opinion. Regular checkups beginning at the age of 35 are part of an optimal prevention program and can help identify and successfully treat disorders at an early stage.

Internal & General Medicine

An internist general practitioner as your attending physician

Experienced in internal and general medicine, this health practitioner is dedicated to you and will assist you throughout your stay. He coordinates specialized tests and analyzes their results to treat and advise each patient based on his or her personal situation.

Unlike specialists, such as cardiologists, pneumologists or gastroenterologists for example, the internist focuses on the patient’s overall state of health, while working closely with specialists, if required. Following their stay, many patients choose their Clinique La Prairie attending physician as their family physician for their daily lives.

For patients in ambulatory care, the general practitioner’s role is:

to manage the patient’s general file
to be the primary care specialist
to coordinate the patient’s checkups

Surgery

An Ultramodern Operating Suite Open to Everyone

Dedicated to all patients wishing to schedule their surgery in the exceptional environment and comfort of Clinique La Prairie, the medical center’s operating suite offers:

laminar flow and high-performance anesthesia equipment
a prep room and recovery room equipped for four patients
two examination rooms for the surgeons
a variety of other rooms

Clinique La Prairie’s surgery program does not cover emergency surgery. It is accessible to insured Swiss patients in a shared room (LaMal) for ambulatory surgery. The operating suite is open to surgeons authorized by Clinique La Prairie desiring to operate on their private or semi-private patients.

General Surgery:

At our surgical department, we offer a variety of general surgery interventions using the latest technology. Our experienced surgeons regularly operate on gallbladders, hernias, thyroids, and varicose veins. Other elective surgeries complete our offer.

Hospitalization:

In most cases, patients are admitted the day of the surgery.
Prior to each operation, the patient is seen by one of our anesthesiologists.
If the intervention allows, surgery is performed using laparoscopy or microsurgery.
Interventions run smoothly thanks to a well-trained operating team.
Following certain interventions (the most common surgical pathologies), patients can return home on the very same day.
Our highly qualified personnel assist each patient from the beginning to the end of their stay.
Hospital stays are in private, high-quality and exclusive accommodation.

Gynecological Surgery:

A team of specialized and committed surgeons assist women seeking help to treat urinary leakage, fallen pelvic organs such as bladder/uterus/rectum/ loose vagina, abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, failed prior surgeries. We are experts who care to restore sexual gratification (libido) and youth to the intimate part of your body by re sculpting external and internal genital organs. We specialize in gynecology, pelvic surgery, and aesthetic vaginal surgery or vaginal rejuvenation. Most of our surgeries are quick, outpatient, or just overnight stays.

Our gynecological surgeons are from academic base and expert in minimal invasive surgery (keyhole), combine the skills of a gynecologist and aesthetic surgeon and sonographer (pelvic ultrasound scan). Prior to your surgery, we offer all our patients a complete gynaecological and breast check-up including pelvic sonography to rule-out any conditions that could need attention. We are a one-stop Women’s Health Center and are internationally based.

Gynaecological esthetic procedures are more commonly carried out using a laser device. We however pioneer in Switzerland the highly precise and minimally traumatic radiofrequency device already used by many plasticians with outstanding results. Studies show that this device is less destructive than any laser as the tissues are cut without thermal diffusion, which means neater scaring and enhanced recovery. The surgery can be performed under local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia.

Labia Reduction Surgery (Labiaplasty):

We perform labial reduction surgery for women with enlarged, or asymmetrical labia minora. Some women feel uncomfortable with their enlarged labia minora (lips), which can lead to discomfort with wearing certain clothing, exercising, or having sex. We customize the labial reconstruction procedure to the individual needs and expectations of the patient. In most cases, the labia reduction surgery is virtually undetectable after complete healing, and patients have been extremely pleased with our results.

Vaginoplasty:

This is a surgical procedure that makes the vagina tighter by removing excess vaginal lining and tightening the surrounding soft tissues. It has been also called “vaginal rejuvenation.” Due to childbirth and even aging, the vagina can become stretched and the surrounding muscles lose their strength and tone. The loose feeling that many women feel is noticed even more by their male partner during sexual intercourse. Vaginoplasty decreases the diameter of the vagina, which results in increased friction during intercourse, making intercourse a much more pleasurable experience for the patient and her partner.

Vaginoplasty can give your vagina a youthful appearance, give you more control of your vaginal muscles, and greatly increase the sexual satisfaction for you and your partner during intercourse. Almost no plastic surgeons have training for these pelvic prolapse surgeries.

Clitoral hood reduction:

Removal of excess skin on the sides of the clitoris which often causes the clitoris to look enlarged or uneven. Genetics, oestrogen, and testosterone exposure can make significant changes to the way the clitoral area appears. A labiaplasty itself may result in the appearance of a comparatively larger clitoral area since the excess labia have been removed, drawing the eyes to the clitoral region. The clitoris itself and its nerves are never touched.

Hymenoplasty:

The goal of this surgery is the reconstruction of the hymen. Cultural, religious, or social reasons predominate when this surgery is considered. Hymenoplasty is performed to make the patient appear virginal.

Perineoplasty:

The visible area between the vagina and the anus is called the perineum. This is the region where episiotomies are cut and where tears during childbirth are most common. Perineoplasty (or Perineorrhaphy) aims to make this region appear normal by excising excess skin, loose skin tags, and suturing the underlying muscles or the perineal body closer together to give a more snug feeling in the introitus or vaginal opening.

Aesthetic removal of Anal skin Tag:

Anal skin tags are shapeless flaps or lumps of flesh usually found at the anal verge, where the inside of the anorectal canal becomes the outside of the body. They can be the remnant of an old haemorrhoid. These can be removed in an aesthetic manner with minimally traumatic Ellman Surgitron device.

Plastic & Aesthetic Surgery:

Whether we treat the eyelids, neck, mouth or cheeks, the goal is to harmonize the face’s structure and to give it a new youthful appearance.Techniques have been refined, so patients can now return to a normal life just 10 days after simple facelift. Respecting the balance of the face’s natural structure, surgery gives marvelous results with no scarring, thereby improving your quality of life and daily sense of well-being.

Correcting unsightly contours:

A physical complex can lead to permanent inhibition in one’s day-to-day life.

So, whether it is a simple protruding ear, a receding chin, unattractive lips or any other irregularity, we have the surgical solutions to improve your feeling of well-being. A discussion with our specialists can help you and answer your questions. For example, we do not recommend a silicone implant to build a chin, due to this material’s progressive destruction of the underlying bone.

Rhinoplasty:

There are number of techniques for correcting an unattractive nose. We will consider a specific solution based on your request that respects respiratory function. Today, changes via rhinoplasty can be simulated on the computer, so you can fully visualize the final result before taking your decision.

Body contour surgery:

Always at the leading edge of new cosmetic surgery technology and techniques, Clinique La Prairie practices a large number of surgical interventions, such as breast remodeling, removal of skin folds following major weight loss, liposuction and liposculpture.

Patient Information:

The Pre-anesthesia Visit

At Clinique La Prairie, each surgical intervention is preceded by a pre-anesthesia visit.
Depending on the type of operation and your state of health, it will be scheduled and performed by your anesthesiologist the night before surgery, the morning of the surgery or a few days prior to surgery.
During this visit, your anesthesiologist will define the type of anesthesia that is best suited to the surgery you will be undergoing, based on your state of health, and also your wishes. It is during this visit that the anesthesiologist will decide whether you need to stop any treatments you are currently following.
Please inform your medical team of any changes to your health, in order to ensure your surgery is as safe as possible.

The Day of Surgery:

The night before your surgery is to take place, we ask that you fast in preparation for the operation. From midnight on the night preceding surgery, you must not eat, drink or smoke.
If necessary, your anesthesiologist will prescribe premedication.
You must remove dentures, hearing aids, glasses and contact lenses, as well as jewelry prior to entering the operating room. They will be taken by the nurse and safely stored.

Specialized Consultations

A broad range of medical services

Beyond and in addition to the revitalization treatments using CLP cellular extract which gave Clinique La Prairie its global renown, we have developed a broad range of medical services. Today, we can offer a wide variety of specialized consultations and surgical services, all of which follow the clinic’s general philosophy. Our main goal is to fight the effects of aging, while improving your quality of life.

Cardiology:

Clinique La Prairie is equipped to practice all non-invasive cardiology exams. Because the heart is the key organ, the motor of our life, it is essential that it be examined during checkups. An examination begins with a consultation with a cardiology specialist, during which a basic 12-lead electrocardiogram is performed. In the event of a heart illness being suspected, the consultation is followed by a cardiac stress test.

This test measures the body’s response to effort, the response of the heart’s frequency, and highlights poorly identified hypertension or possible arrhythmias. The stress test also allows an initial estimation of the condition of the coronary arteries. Depending on the results of this initial test, and based on the recommendations of the patient’s clinic, additional tests may be scheduled, to be performed at Clinique La Prairie.

One of these is transthoracic echocardiography, which makes it possible to:

examine the heart’s morphological appearance
check that the various chambers function properly
precisely evaluate the state of the four heart valves
Depending on the results of the ultrasound and the stress test, an additional exam may also be performed. A heart MRI including a stress test would be recommended. This test allows us to see the heart and is considered the best tool for ruling out significant myocardial ischemia. It also allows us to view the heart’s chambers and valves, using a process that is radiation free. Should we need to view the coronary arteries, we can also perform amultislice cardiac CT scan. In the vast majority of cases, this is equivalent to a diagnosis through coronary angiogram.

If, at the first consultation, the electrocardiogram and the stress test lead the specialist to diagnose an arrhythmia, additional tests, including a 24-hour Holter recording can be conducted, once again at Clinique La Prairie. The specialist responsible for your consultation at Clinique La Prairie is also a consulting physician at the Geneva University Hospital (HUG) and authorized to practice at Clinique Cecil of the Hirslanden group in Lausanne.

Following this initial non-invasive examination, and in direct collaboration with specialists from HUG and Clinique Cecil, your specialist at Clinique La Prairie initatiates and monitors the undertaking of invasive tests, such as a coronary angiogram, angioplasty or the insertion of stents. Similarly, if heart rhythm examinations lead us to recommend the insertion of a pacemaker or defibrillator, this surgery will be conducted at Clinique Cecil or at Geneva University Hospital, in direct collaboration with the specialist at Clinique La Prairie.

Dermatology & Venereology:

Dermatology:

Treatment of skin cancers:

The most common form of skin cancer is the carcinoma. Skin tumors generally develop after the age of 50 on exposed areas of the body like the face, neck, shoulders, forearms, and back of the hands. They are most often caused by excessive and chronic exposure to the sun.

Melanoma is another form of skin cancer, which is less frequent than carcinoma but much more dangerous. It can be located anywhere on the body, but appears most often on the trunk in men and on the legs in women, in two different forms:

formation of a mole, a small pigmented spot on healthy skin
change in appearance of an existing mole
Surgical removal of these lesions most often cures the patient, although additional treatment is sometimes necessary, especially when the lesion has evolved significantly.Therefore, it is essential that these lesions be identified at an early stage, especially in persons at risk.

Read more on Skin cancer screening and treatment in the file below.

During a dermatological consultation at Clinique La Prairie, the dermatologist examines the entire skin with the naked eye, then examines suspicious lesions under a dermatoscope, a medical magnifying glass. While no treatment can definitively cure these illnesses, at Clinique La Prairie, we treat chronic inflammatory skin diseases, such as psoriasis, eczema, atopic dermatitis and lichen. Through comprehensive care, and treatment of inflammatory outbreaks, the dermatologist takes care to prescribe appropriate therapy and to regularly monitor the situation.

Thus, the dermatologist may use the following, as required:

topical steroids
immunosuppressors
light therapy
The stated goal is to improve the patient’s quality of life.

Treating related illnesses:

Related illnesses include:

infectious or inflammatory nail diseases
skin diseases of the scalp, and in particular hair loss
Abnormal eccrine gland functionwhich leads to perspiration problems
acne, the primary pathology of sebaceous glands which affects more than three-quarters of adolescents
Treatment of acne varies according to its severity: purely comedonal forms can be controlled, but may evolve towards inflammatory lesions, increasing the risk of unattractive scarring in the absence of early treatment.

There are many therapeutic possibilities:

local treatment: lotion, gel, cream
systemic drugs : antibiotics, isotretinoin
hormonal treatment
physical treatment (laser, lancing of micro cysts, correction of scarring)
Review and treatment of itching and hypersensitivity pathologies such as hives, lupus, hypodermatitis, and drug allergies:

These pathologies often require biological investigation and additional testing, conducted by the internal and general medicine department at Clinique La Prairie. Since these pathologies can affect several organs in addition to the skin, treatment is often multidisciplinary: a dermatologist, internist and rheumatologist often join forces to meet the patient’s needs.

Several so-called systemic general treatments are available to treat these pathologies:

cortisone
colchicine
synthetic antimalarial drugs
biotherapeutics
Infectious skin diseases:

These are generally classified in three major categories:

Bacterial: impetigo, folliculitis
viral: herpes, shingles, warts, molluscum
mycotic or parasitic: scabies, pediculosis, tropical parasitic diseases
While they have different origins, these infectious illnesses are most often treated locally. We use treatments based on topical molecules, antibiotics or fungicides, but also nonsurgical techniques such as liquid nitrogen, laser treatment, or electrocoagulation.

Dermatological Surgery:

Certain benign or malignant skin lesions can be removed surgically. Most often, these are moles, fatty tumors such as cysts, lipomas, or skin cancers. Such interventions take place an ambulatory operating room, under local anesthesia. Because it is ambulatory surgery, there is rarely any need for recovery time or disruption of your work schedule. The removed lesion is then analyzed in order to clarify the diagnosis and to ensure that it has been entirely removed.

Venereology:

Sexually transmitted diseases (STD), also called sexually-transmitted infections (STI) or venereal diseases are infectious diseases that are spread through sexual contact.

Infectious agents (bacteria, viruses and parasites) are responsible for various pathologies:

syphilis
gonorrhea
genital herpes
genital warts
By taking samples, the dermatologist can identify the illness, prevent it from spreading and administer a suitable treatment. Depending on the infectious agent in question, systemic antibiotic treatment, a topical fungicide, an antiviral drug or physical removal (using a laser or liquid nitrogen) will clear up the infection.

Endocrinology & Diabetology:

Endocrinology:

This specialty studies glands that secrete hormones, which are essential to our bodies proper functioning: the thyroid, parathyroids, hypophysis, the pancreas, stomach, adrenal glands, ovaries and testicles.

There can be a number of different types of problem:

morphological: size (goiter) or mass (adenoma, nodule, benign or malignant cyst),
functional: excessive or insufficient hormone secretion, leading to pathological symptoms and signs
A diagnosis is found through a number of tests:

consultation including discussion of the patient’s medical history and clinical status
blood tests
fine needle aspiration biopsy
ultrasound or other radiological exam (MRI, Scanner)
The consultation, tests, administration of the treatment, and long term monitoring are all conducted at Clinique La Prairie.

Andropause (hypogonadism):

A condition affecting men as get older, it is the result of a decrease in the production of sexual hormones which begins around the age of 40. This can lead a variety of symptoms that may affect their sex life and physical and mental well-being.

The specialized consultation involves several phases:

discussion of male physiology and answers to your questions
anamnesis and targeted clinical status of the symptoms suggesting hormonal decline
targeted blood tests and x-rays if needed
personalized care of each patient based on the results of the tests
Diabetology:

The diabetology unit is composed of two Swiss Medical Association specialists in diabetology and endocrinology, a Swiss Medical Association specialist in internal medicine and nutrition and a team of dietitians. Diabetes is a progressive disease characterized by an abnormally high level of sugar in the blood. In the long term, large and small veines can be affected, leading to complications. Prevention and screening are essentialbecause many people have diabetes and don’t know it, because they show no symptoms.

Screening should begin at the age of 45, or earlier, if there are risk factors. The goal is to diagnose this illness as soon as possible, in order to treat it and prevent or delay the appearance of complications.

Comprehensive treatment of diabetes at Clinique La Prairie involves the following:

general information about the illness and on managing it on a daily basis
discussions and suggestions on appropriate diet
evaluation, introduction or modification of treatment for diabetes
instruction on how to do self-testing and injections
evaluation and review of potential complications and their treatment
gestational diabetes: treatment of patients suffering from diabetes during their pregnancy
Additional services are provided, such as the treatment of obesity by a Swiss Medical Association physician specializing in nutrition and obesity, as well as by our dietitians.

Gynecology & Obstetrics:

For some 15 years, Clinique La Prairie’s gynecology and obstetrics department has been offering a complete range of diagnostic and treatment services in these two fields. Many general gynecological exams are conducted under the authority of Dr Thierry D. Pache, specialist certified by the Swiss Medical Association:

standard clinical exams with screening
contraception
menstrual cycle problems
incontinence
infectious diseases
cancers
monitoring of normal and pathological pregnancies
Endovaginal and trans-abdominal gynecological ultrasounds as well as pregnancy ultrasounds are done in this department.

Note that most services are covered by the conventional health insurance system. Furthermore, our practitioners are authorized to provide endocrinology services relating to infertility and menopause and oncological services specific to gynecology (cancers). For regular checkups, additional tests, such as mammograms and hormonal assessments, can also be performed on site. With vast experience in endoscopic surgery, the doctors at our gynecology department have developed a traditional and minimally invasive surgical platform, at Clinique La Prairie.

Last, surgery for breast diseases is also extensively practiced.

Neurology:

Neurology is a complex specialization of internal medicine dealing with illnesses of the brain, the spinal cord, muscles and peripheral nerves.

A large number of problems are encountered and treated:

muscle pain
sensitivity disorders in the upper and lower limbs (polyneuropathy)
muscle weakness due to a neuromuscular illness or myopathy
headaches and migraines
coordination disorders, dexterity disorders in limbs and trembling (Parkinson’s disease)
afflictions of the brain or of the spinal cord (myelin diseases such as multiple sclerosis)
Epileptology and Electroencephalography Consultation:

On average, Clinique La Prairie receives over 1,000 patients for epileptic monitoring each year. A whole program of care is carried out, including neurological tests and antiepileptic treatments, clinical monitoring and objective evaluation through electroencephalogram.

Clinique La Prairie is certified until 2020 by la Société Suisse de Neurophysiologie Clinique.

Examination Unit for Cerebrovascular Illnesses and Neurosonological Review (Ultrasound Doppler Exam):

Using highly technical equipment, we record pre-cerebral circulation via ultrasound. Measurements are taken at the neck, using a probe that records the circulation directly in the brain via the skull. This system also creates an image. We also recently purchased a carotid duplex, which allows us to observe the image of the carotid arteries, the structure of their walls and cholesterol plaque buildup. This examination is performed on patients at risk of a stroke or who have already had cerebrovascular problems.

Specialized Memory Consultation:

This consultation is unique in French-speaking Switzerland and there is strong demand for it from family physicians in the region because many patients suffer memory problems. Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease can be detected using this method. This consultation consists of an in-depth clinical examination, memory tests, combined with an additional specialized examination if necessary, performed by speech therapists and neuropsychologists at the Clinique de Valmont (Glion sur Montreux). Often essential for neurologists, brain MRIs are performed in our radiology department. We also perform MRIs of the cervical and lumbar spine, and other imagery examinations of the muscles. To stay at the leading edge of treatment in the field, Clinique La Prairie has close relations with the University Neurology Department at CHUV, the Neurology Department of University of Geneva and the HUG Pre-Surgical Epilepsy Unit.

Nutrition:

Our physicians specializing in nutrition intervene in various areas:

obesity
eating disorders
dietary deficiencies
energy metabolism
Our nutritional approach involves multiple collaborations with the nutrition department, fitness coaches, psychiatrists and psychologists, diabetologists, and other specialists at the clinic.

Read more on Our global multidisciplinary approach in the file below.

ENT:

Otolaryngology is a specialization concerning illnesses of the ears, nose, sinus cavities and vocal cords. An analysis of the patient’s medical history, directed according to his or her specific problems is followed by a detailed examination of all ENT organs. We use the most modern and efficient technological resources. Using a camera mounted on a microscope, optics or fiberscope, the patient can follow the exam on a screen. The examination can be filmed and photographed. Videostroboscopy, paired with sound recording, helps us analyze vocal cord problems, typically encountered in heavy smokers, voice professionals and in cases of alcohol abuse.

The ear is the organ of the hearing and equilibrium, which we investigate in cases of hearing loss and vertigo. We also routinely examine patients suffering from snoring and sleep apnea syndrom.

To provide adequate treatment, we evaluate sinonasal function through a variety of tests:

examination of nasal permeability (optics, rhinomanometry, etc)
skin and blood allergy tests
tests examining the sense of smell, with specific radiological exams if necessary
Our operating room is equipped with leading-edge technology:

computer-controlled operating guidance system
radiofrequency system which we have been using for 10 years
coblation technology
sophisticated operating microscope

Pneumology:

The pneumology team is located at the medical center, and offers a variety of care:

Complete pulmonary function examination evaluating the permeability of the bronchial tubes, pulmonary volume, function of the alveoli, gas exchanges and respiratory muscle strength. For a precise diagnostic approach, we also perform provocation tests, allergy tests and evaluate the functioning of all the organ systems participating in physical effort (ergospirometry), the same tests as are performed at centers for high-level athletes. In association with our modern and competent radiology department, this allows us to provide individualized, targeted and effective pneumological treatment.

The respiratory polygraph allows us to identify sleep problems, due to snoring or a more serious respiratory problems such as sleep apnea. Working closely with the other members of the sleep center (ENT specialist , neurologist, psychiatrist), we develop a tailor-made strategy, adapted to your sleep problem, paired with therapeutic education, which is the key to long-term success.

Our ultramodern video-bronchoscopy equipment (a new image treatment technique called Narrow Band Imaging) allows us to visually explore the bronchial system and detect dysplasia (irregularities in the bronchial tubes which can develop into cancer).

Multiple sampling techniques (bronchial washing, biopsy and endobronchial brushing and mediastinal fine needle aspiration) are also used in the diagnostic process. The exam is formed in the operating room in total safety, to ensure the anesthesiology team can provide ideal comfort in an optimal environment.

The STOP-TABAC consultation prepares you for the process of giving up smoking in a relaxed, comfortable, and long-lasting way. Here again, we focus on a personalised combination of physicians working at the clinic (pneumologist, psychiatrist, psychologist, hypnotist and acupuncturist).

Psychiatry:

The WHO defines health as a complete state of physical, mental and social wellness. A variety of symptoms may alter this balance throughout our lifetime. We involve our psychiatrists in situations of stress, anxiety, nervousness, sleep or emotional disturbances, sadness, excessive consumption of alcohol, medication or drugs, or eating disturbances.

Psychiatry (etymologically “medicine of the soul”) is a medical specialty which diagnoses, treats and prevents mental illness. It is important to know that mental illnesses are among the most common after cardiovascular illness. Statistically, throughout their lifetime, one in four people will develop a mental disturbance, such as a major depressive episode for example. Only 50% of cases of depression are diagnosed by front-line doctors, because it can develop insidiously, with the patient unaware that he or she is suffering from depression.

The psychiatrist’s role is to establish a diagnosis, to evaluate the degree of seriousness of the pathology and to propose a suitable treatment, whether pharmaceutical and/or psychotherapeutic. The sooner these disturbances are treated, the better the results, with the goal of reducing or even eliminating mental suffering, in order to restore serenity and quality of life.

Psychology:

The psychologist works hand in hand with psychiatrist. He contributes to achieve a state of increased wellness and “better living”. His assistance helps the patient to better understand himself, to better know himself and control their profound desires, fears, joys, emotions, and vital energy. This greater awareness is achieved at a number of levels: behavioral, cognitive, affective, corporal and especially emotional.

It is essential to observe and treat the person as a whole. Clinique La Prairie therapists propose care that develops through several stages. The first psychological consultation aims to help patients become aware of the causes of their feeling of disquiet.

Patients are then offered tools which will help them deal with existing anxiety or anguish. The following two techniques are used, among others:

Caycedian sophrology
therapeutic hypnosis

Rheumatology:

A rheumatologist is a doctor specializing in the back, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments.

Right from childhood and throughout our life, we need to take care of our musculoskeletal system through suitable measures, such as proper use of our back and joints, both in terms of movement and poise, for harmonious growth.

In adults, in addition to prevention, we need to focus on early diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal problems, in order to ensure that affected people are quickly able to return to work. Another key goal is to prevent their problems from becoming chronic and debilitating, for better quality of life.

Rheumatology is a vast field, including:

osteoarticular complaints: arthrosis, osteoporosis
metabolic illnesses: gout, chondrocalcinosis
inflammatory or autoimmune diseases: rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, systemic erythmatosus lupus
infectious diseases: septic arthritis, spondylodiscitis
neoplastic diseases: benign and malignant tumors
dysgenic diseases: genetic back, cartilage or collagen complaints
regional complex impairments: algoneurodystrophy
fibromyalgia syndromes, chronic fatigue and painful somatoform disorders
Inflammatory rheumatism and auto-immune illnesses can be manifested by many extra particular disorders such as skin, eye, kidney, lung, and other organ infections. Targeted infiltrations can ease osteoarticular pain and facilitate improvement in joint function.

Medical research has helped to considerably improve the treatment of inflammatory rheumatism, proposing innovative and effective drugs. They control inflammation and pain in order to improve patients’ general condition and quality of life. Certain biological treatments may require day hospitalization for surveillance and optimal medical monitoring of the therapy.

Urology:

The urology department of the Clinique La Prairie offers a full urology examination of the upper and lower urinary tracts. This involves a medical examination as well as abdominal ultrasound of the prostate, bladder and kidneys. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels are tested during each examination, as well as hormone levels by means of testosterone, DHEA and prolactin assays according to your needs. We undertake all types of medicinal and surgical treatment of the urinary tracts.

Prostate surgery is carried out by means of endoscopy or greenlight laser. For cancer treatment we offer open or robotic surgery, depending on the options, with cooperation from our partner centers. This also applies for cancer of the kidneys and bladder.
Kidney stones are treated using endoscopy or lithotripsy with assistance from the lithotripsy center in Lausanne and using the most up-to-date Dornier technology.
We also offer the opportunity of managing incontinence with a full urodynamic examination and modern surgical options such as bandages.
It is also possible to correct pelvic equilibium disorders such as cystocele.
For patients with libido disorders we offer specialized consultation allowing an overall approach to the problem. We offer all types of surgery, notably corretion of penile curvature and penile implants.

Paramedical Services

An Incomparable Offer of Complementary Paramedical Services

Our comprehensive approach to patient health does not involve just medical services: often appropriate paramedical services are added to a personalized treatment program. Clinique La Prairie constantly develops its services in this field, so that patients can benefit, according to their needs or desires, from the positive effects of acuaspiration, yoga, sophrology or various relaxation techniques such as hypnosis or specific kinds of massage.

Acupuncture:

The benefits of acupuncture: health, beauty, fertility, wellness, energy and relaxation

The flow of energy inside our body can be affected by stress, fatigue or lack of sleep. These flows are essential to balance in our life. Therefore, it is essential to restore this balance to maintain good health. We recommend you discover acupuncture, which complements the treatments provided at Clinique La Prairie. Developed over 5,000 years ago by Chinese medicine, acuaspiration is based on the stimulation of meridians and specific points on the body, using sterile and painless needles. This energizing and stress-relieving action will improve your general state of well-being, energy level and wellness. Acupuncture can also relieve certain psychosomatic and gynecological problems, menopausal disorders in particular.

Your treatment begins with an interview and exam to establish your needs. For long-lasting energy improvement, and to improve your sense of wellness, three to five sessions are recommended.

Nutrition:

Taking care of yourself first of all means paying attention to what you eat and we believe that good nutrition is essential for feeling good. Our team of dietitians is at your disposal for personalized consultation.

For patients staying at the clinic, a nutrition interview is scheduled at your arrival, in order to establish a personalized nutrition program based on your needs, your expectations or on any particular pathologies (diabetes will, high cholesterol, hypertension, allergies, etc.)

Our dietitians also supervise and advise kitchen staff on the quality of our healthful cuisine. Our menu concept focuses on a balanced, varied and healthful diet, using high-quality products. A light menu is also offered for all those who wish to reduce their calorie intake and the amount of food they eat during their stay without frustration and still maintaining the pleasure of eating. If you wish, an individual nutrition consultation can be scheduled. During this, you will be given documentation related to the topics discussed during the consultation.

Hypnosis:

Therapeutic Hypnosis:

We are all familiar with hypnotic states: when we drive our car on “autopilot”, when we are “daydreaming”, contemplating a beautiful landscape or totally absorbed in a book, to the point of forgetting where we are. A hypnotic state is a modified state of consciousness, which can be induced intentionally by a therapist. It allows easier access to the subconscious in order to bring about rapid and deep change. All patients carry the answers to their questions and solutions to their problems within themselves.

It is important to underline that the patient maintains control and that hypnosis focuses the conscious and psychic energy on a specific subject. The patient will remember everything that happens during the session. The goal is psychic wellness and even to “become who you are”, a concept so dear to Goethe.

The Medical Analysis Laboratory:

Clinique La Prairie has its own medical analysis laboratory offering a 24/7 service. One of our many strengths lies in the quality and speed of our analysis. Our laboratory works very closely with the clinic’s physicians, and with the radiology and medical imagery institute.

Quality and complete confidentiality are guaranteed. The laboratory is certified by CSCQ Swiss inspection and meets the requirements of Qualab par H+. Charges are covered by LAMal.

Our areas of activity:

Chemistry
Clinical Chemistry
Tumor Markers
Hematology
Blood Count
Hemostasis
Coagulation
Monitoring of patients receiving anticoagulants
Immunology
Thyroid
Fertility
Virology
Hepatitis
HIV

Physical Therapy:

A paramedical discipline providing treatment through physical agents, also called kinesiology or treatment through movement, it provides treatment for both ambulatory patients and hospitalized patients before and after surgery.

Treatment:

We propose personalized treatments, that meet your needs during your treatment period. This may be:

conservative treatments where the pathology is treated through the recovery of natural movements
postsurgical rehabilitation
functional treatments or treatment of respiratory and neurological disorders
The Treatment Center:

Clinique la Prairie has three individual treatment rooms, which are quiet, private, and equipped with the latest electrotherapy equipment. Each room has a therapeutic saltwater pool heated to 32°C, equipped with relaxing water jet systems for rheumatism or orthopedic postoperative disorders.

The Team:

At Clinique La Prairie, a dynamic and professional team welcomes and takes care of you, taking a holistic approach to its patients. The team is composed of three therapists with over 10 years of professional practice in Switzerland and abroad. Treatments can be carried out in French, English, Spanish or Portuguese.

Sophrology:

The word “sophrology” comes from the Greek:

SOS
serenity, harmony
PRHEN
spirit, consciousness
LOGOS
science, study
Created in the 1960s by the Colombian neuropsychiatrist Alfonso Caycédo, sophrology is a science that encourages the resolution of disorders (psychiatric, physiological, existential), in order to develop a more harmonious personality, through the awareness of self and the strengthening of positive structures. This technique became a full-fledged discipline which Prof. Alfonso Caycédo called Sophrology. Its roots lie in Raja yoga, tai chi, Zen meditation, and the martial arts.

Sophrology is based on four fundamental principles:

body image
work on positive thinking
objective reality
suspending judgment
It is used as a relaxation technique and to improve one’s understanding of oneself. Using techniques based on breathing and nervous and muscle relaxation, sophrology helps maintain balance between the body and mind. By repeating these simple techniques, it strengthens one’s personal abilities and improves quality of life. By learning and repeating different exercises, which can be practiced lying down, sitting or standing, sophrology acts concretely on:

fears
anxiety
insomnia
concentration problems
respiratory problems
pain and tension
awareness of the body in its entirety

Radiology & Medical Imaging Institute

Leading-edge Medical Imaging

Located in the basement of the medical center, the Radiology and Medical Imaging Institute occupies an entire storey, covering some 725 sq.m (7800 sq ft) and with 210 sq.m (2250 sq ft) of annexes. It has its own reception area and waiting rooms. Recent upgrading work has furnished our radiology institute with the latest equipment, such as MRI and 64 slice CT scanners, all in an exceptional environment. Our highly-qualified medical and technical team, experienced in the latest methods, will conduct your tests. We guarantee high-quality testing and rapid results. With your basic health insurance, all radiological tests can be conducted at our institute for the same price as at a public hospital.

MRI

Comfortable MRI, for both claustrophobic and overweight patients
Full-body MRI with diffusion and perfusion techniques: tumors, myeloma, prostate, breasts, inflammatory illnesses, malformations, ostseomuscular diseases, cerebral pathologies
Angio-MRI: vascular analysis, stenosis, aneurysm
Brain: atrophy, Alzheimer’s disease, hematoma, microangiopathy, tumors, stroke, CVA
Orbital: pseudo-tumors, abscesses
Inner ear: neurinoma, malformations
Neck: thyroid, salivary glands, lymph nodes
Cardiac: stroke, morphological and functional examination, valve pathologies, abnormalities
Chest and abdomen: inflammatory illnesses, tumors, malformations
Osteoarticular: meniscal tear, synovial lesions, bones, ligaments and tendons, arthro-MRI
Cholangio-MRI: pancreatic and biliary illnesses
Breast MRI with angiography: tumor diagnosis and evaluation
64 SLICE CT-SCANNER

Simultaneous acquisition of 64 0.6-mm slices
Cardiac: calcium score, coronary stenosis and ventricular function
Thorax: nodule, interstitial illnesses, pleural effusion
Virtual bronchoscopy
Brain: hematoma, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, hydrocephalus
Pre-cerebral vessels: vertebral and carotid arteries
Cervical and inner ear
Sinus: polyps and malformations
Osteoarticular: arthro-CT
Aorta and vessels in the lower limbs
Abdomen: polyps, malformations
Virtual colonoscopy
Denta CT-Scan: implants
Total Body CT-Scan

Digital Mammogram

Diagnosis of tumors
Cancer screening (50-70 years)
Biopsy scheduling
Lesion location (insertion of metal tumor marker)
Postoperative examinations

Ultrasound / Doppler Sonography

Abdomen: cysts, kidney stones, malformations, tumors, inflammatory illnesses, etc.
Musculoskeletal: tendons, muscles, ligaments, joint effusion
Breasts and lymphatic nodes: biopsy
Thyroid and parathyroid glands
Salivary glands
Vascular: arterial and venous pathologies
Doppler: hemodynamic, atheroma, varicose veins
Neurosonography
Pleura: effusions

Digital Radiology

Direct digital apparatus
Thorax: lung, heart, and chest wall check-up
Osteoarticular diagnosis: arthritis, scoliosis, rheumatism
Intravenous urogram (IVU)
Infiltrations: joints and epidural
Intestinal pathologies

Mineralometry

Bone densitometry evaluates the amount of calcium in the bones
Examination of osteoporosis or the presence of risk factors
Biphotonic densitometry: Spine, Hip, Wrist, Total Body
Sahara (ultrasound mineralometry)

Digital Orthopantogram

Dental checkup with full-mouth digital x-ray
Digital x-rays of temporomandibular joints

Interventional Radiology

Needle aspirations and various biopsies
Antalgic infiltrations

Digital Archiving

Complete computerized management of patient files (RIS system)
Digital archiving of all images (PACS system)
Reprinting possible at any time
Copy on CD or DVD

Preparing For Radiological Exams

CT-Scanner:
On an empty stomach, without drinking or smoking for four hours prior to the exam.

Virtual Colonscopy:
Please contact us for more details.

MRI:

No preparation necessary – however, for brain MRI: please wear no makeup or jewelry.
Note: Please inform us immediately if you have a pacemaker, cardiac valves, cerebral aneurysm clips, or metallic debris in your eyes.
Angio and cholangio-MRI:
Strict fast

Cardiac MRI:

Only morphological, no preparation necessary
With medication-induced stress, no coffee, tea, or chocolate on the day of the exam

Ultrasound, Doppler:

For the abdomen, lesser pelvis, pregnancy, prostate, bladder, kidneys: fast for four hours prior to the exam and do not empty the bladder.
For other regions: no preparation necessary.
Guided aspiration: contact our secretary.

Mammogram:

No preparation necessary. The exam should be performed between the fifth and 15th day of the menstrual cycle. Please bring alongpreviousmammograms.

Hysterosalpingography:
Based on your gynecologist’s instructions.

Mineralometrics (bone densitometry):
No preparation necessary.

Urography:
Fast for four hours before the exam.

Arthrography:
No preparation necessary.

Infiltration:
No preparation necessary.

Insurance Coverage

Ambulatory Treatment

All ambulatory tests and treatments performed at Clinique La Prairie are covered by Swiss basic health insurance based on pricing agreements in effect in all of Switzerland. Swiss health insurance will refund your expenses after deduction of the premium and coinsurance.

Inpatient Treatment
Insured under semi-private or private category

If you have Swiss supplementary health insurance, you may receive surgical services at Clinique La Prairie.