Private Cataract Surgery Costs in the UK
Private cataract surgery removes cloudy lenses using phacoemulsification before replacing them with clear intraocular lenses (IOLs). Going private means zero NHS waiting lists, personalised lens choices (monofocal, multifocal, toric), and boutique touches such as same-day discharge suites, chauffeur options, and extended aftercare.
🕶️ Clinics like Optegra, Spire, or independent ophthalmologists bundle pre-op assessments, surgeon and anaesthetist fees, medicated drops, and follow-up visits so you know the full cost before committing.
Need larger vascular workups too? See our private vascular surgeon consultation article.
How Much is Private Cataract Surgery in the UK?
Monofocal lens (per eye): £2 000 to £3 200.
Multifocal/toric upgrade: £2 800 to £4 000.
Both eyes package: £4 500 to £7 000 when booked together.
Laser-assisted add-on: £500 to £900 per eye.
YAG laser enhancement (if capsule clouds later): £350 to £600.
Regional Price Differences in the UK
London (Central): Consultant ophthalmologists charge £2 800 - £4 500 per eye due to premium hospitals.
Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds: Regional eye centres offer identical technology for £2 200 - £3 800.
Smaller cities (Edinburgh, Cardiff, Newcastle): Expect £2 000 - £3 500, though theatre slots may be limited to certain days.
Factors that Affect Cataract Surgery Pricing
👁️ Lens selection
Premium IOLs that correct presbyopia or astigmatism cost more than standard monofocals.
🔬 Surgical technology
Laser-assisted surgery, intraoperative aberrometry, or dropless cataract protocols add equipment fees.
👩⚕️ Surgeon expertise
High-profile consultant surgeons with extensive portfolios command higher professional fees.
🏥 Hospital amenities
Private hospitals with concierge teams, private rooms, and chauffeur services increase facility charges.
📍 Location
Central London overheads exceed those of regional hospitals.
How to Save Money on Private Cataract Surgery
📦 Schedule both eyes
Clinics often discount the second eye when surgery is booked within the same treatment plan.
🧾 Use PMI or finance plans
Private medical insurance frequently covers cataracts; otherwise 0% finance spreads payments over 12 - 24 months.
🚆 Travel to regional centres
Visiting Manchester, Leeds, or Bristol can save £500 - £1 000 per eye without compromising outcomes.
🕶️ Consider monovision
Choosing monofocal lenses set for different focal points reduces reliance on costly multifocals.
FAQs
Is cataract surgery painful?
No - local anaesthetic drops numb the eye so you feel only gentle pressure. Most patients watch colours or light patterns rather than pain.
When can I return to work?
Desk workers often return within 2 - 3 days, while manual labour or swimming requires surgeon clearance after 2 - 3 weeks.
Will I still need glasses?
Monofocal lenses usually require reading glasses, whereas multifocal or toric lenses minimise glasses but cost more.
What if both eyes have cataracts?
Surgeons operate eyes separately - typically 1 - 3 weeks apart - to ensure the first eye heals before treating the second.
Conclusion
Private cataract surgery costs £2 000 - £4 500 per eye depending on lenses and location. Booking both eyes together, leveraging insurance, and considering regional clinics keeps crystal-clear vision affordable. 👁️
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Jane Smith |
| Am British, live in London (1985–present) |
