What Is the Cost of Cataract Eye Surgery in the UK?
Have You Been Diagnosed with Cataracts?
Being told you have cataracts can feel daunting. Many people notice their vision becoming cloudy, colours appearing duller, or night driving becoming more difficult — but hearing that you’ll eventually need cataract eye surgery often raises new questions.
For most people, one of the first questions is about cost. What does cataract eye surgery cost in the UK? Is it available on the NHS, and how does private treatment compare?
Understanding Cataract Eye Surgery
Cataract eye surgery is one of the most common and successful operations in the UK. The procedure replaces the cloudy natural lens of the eye with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL), restoring sharp, bright vision.
At Centre for Sight, we use advanced laser-assisted techniques to enhance accuracy, safety and recovery time. The result? Clearer vision and a renewed sense of freedom for patients who’ve struggled with foggy sight, glare or constant lens changes.
Cataract Surgery on the NHS
In the UK, cataract surgery is widely available on the NHS and remains a safe and effective option. However, it’s important to understand the differences between NHS and private care when comparing cost and experience.
- NHS cost: The surgery is free at the point of use, but you’ll typically be placed on a waiting list that can range from several weeks to several months, depending on your area.
- Standard lens: The NHS generally provides a monofocal lens, which corrects either distance or near vision — but not both. This means many patients still need glasses afterwards.
- One eye at a time: NHS cataract surgery is usually performed on one eye per appointment, with a gap between procedures.
For many, the NHS pathway is entirely appropriate. However, for those who wish to shorten waiting times, enjoy a more tailored experience, or reduce their dependency on glasses, private cataract eye surgery offers a valuable alternative.
Private Cataract Eye Surgery: Typical Costs
In the UK, the cost of private cataract eye surgery generally ranges between £3,500 and £5,000 per eye, depending on several factors:
- Technology used – Advanced femtosecond laser-assisted surgery provides greater precision than manual methods.
- Type of lens implant – Premium lens options, such as multifocal, trifocal, or toric lenses, correct multiple vision ranges and astigmatism.
- Surgeon expertise – Highly experienced consultant surgeons may charge more, reflecting their skill, outcomes, and advanced techniques.
- Pre-operative assessments and aftercare – Leading clinics include detailed diagnostic scans and follow-up appointments to ensure optimal results.
At Centre for Sight, our fees are fully transparent, with no hidden costs. Every patient undergoes a comprehensive diagnostic consultation, where we assess the exact type and stage of your cataract, review your eye health in detail, and recommend the best surgical plan for your vision needs. We are also proud to offer our patients 0% finance options with Interest free (0% APR) credit monthly payment plans of up to 24 months.
Book a consultation call to find out more about our finance options
What’s Included in the Cost at Centre for Sight
When you compare cataract surgery costs, it’s important to look beyond the price alone. At Centre for Sight, your investment includes a complete package of care designed for comfort, precision and peace of mind:
- Comprehensive eye assessment and diagnostics – including optical scans, biometry and corneal mapping.
- Consultation with a consultant ophthalmic surgeon – not an optometrist or technician.
- Customised treatment plan – tailored to your lifestyle, prescription, and long-term visual goals.
- Surgery using state-of-the-art technology – including femtosecond laser precision.
- Premium intraocular lens options – chosen for your eyes and visual requirements.
- Follow-up care and aftercare appointments – ensuring your recovery and results are monitored closely.
We believe that high-quality vision care should be both personal and transparent, which is why our patients know exactly what’s included before proceeding.
Finance and Payment Options
We understand that private healthcare is an important financial decision. That’s why Centre for Sight offers flexible payment plans to help make cataract eye surgery more affordable.
Whether you’d prefer to pay in instalments or spread the cost of treatment interest-free over several months, our team can explain your options clearly during your consultation.
Why Choose Centre for Sight?
Founded over 25 years ago, Centre for Sight has become a trusted name in ophthalmology and laser vision correction across the UK. Led by Mr Sheraz M. Daya, an internationally recognised surgeon and innovator in cataract and corneal surgery, our team combines world-class expertise with a compassionate approach to care.
We have clinics in Surrey, Sussex, and London, providing easy access to consultations and surgery in comfortable, modern settings. Our reputation has been built on excellent outcomes, patient satisfaction, and investment in the very latest technology.
Patients who choose Centre for Sight often tell us they value:
- Shorter waiting times and flexible scheduling.
- Access to premium lens implants for greater visual freedom.
- Surgeon-led consultations at every stage.
- Advanced diagnostic testing for unrivalled accuracy.
- Personalised aftercare and lifetime commitment to eye health.
Is Cataract Eye Surgery Worth the Cost?
For many of our patients, the answer is a resounding yes. Restoring clear vision isn’t just about seeing better — it’s about regaining independence, confidence, and quality of life.
From driving safely to reading with ease, from enjoying time with family to seeing the world in vivid colour again, cataract surgery can be truly transformative.
The decision is personal, and it’s perfectly normal to take time to explore your options. A consultation with our team can help you understand whether now is the right time for surgery, what to expect from your chosen procedure, and how best to plan financially.
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Book a Consultation with Centre for Sight
If you’ve recently been told you have cataracts and are now exploring your options, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Our friendly and experienced team will guide you through the process, explain the costs clearly, and ensure you feel confident about your decision.
Book your consultation today at one of our clinics in Surrey, Sussex or London, and take the first step towards clearer, brighter vision with Centre for Sight — the UK’s trusted experts in cataract eye surgery.