NHS cataract surgery
Helping more patients access NHS cataract treatment
What Is NHS cataract surgery?
During this procedure, the patient’s cloudy lens (cataract) is removed and replaced with an artificial lens (known as an intraocular lens) to restore clear vision. The standard replacement used on the NHS is called a monofocal lens, which improves vision for a specific distance (like far away or close). Getting NHS cataract treatment means all of your costs will be fully funded by the NHS, with no additional cost to you.
Who can benefit from NHS cataract surgery?
If it’s becoming difficult to see and carry out your usual daily activities, such as driving and reading, cataract surgery can restore clear vision and improve quality of life. Because the surgery is NHS-funded, patients can access this treatment without having to pay.
Referral requirements via GP
If your GP or optician suspects or diagnoses you with an eye condition, such as cataracts, they will discuss all of your treatment options and where you can receive NHS care. If you choose Newmedica for your NHS cataract surgery, let them know, and they’ll manage your referral in line with the locally commissioned NHS pathway.
Eligibility criteria for NHS funding
Patients must meet specific NHS thresholds to qualify for NHS-funded cataract surgery. These are usually linked to impact on vision and whether the condition is impacting the patient’s day-to-day life.
How does NHS cataract surgery work?
Most cataract surgeries are performed under a local anaesthetic, either by eye drops or anaesthetic around the eye (don’t worry, there won’t be any needles). Your consultant will make a very small incision in the eye to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with the artificial intraocular lens. You’ll be awake for the procedure and may see some movement around your eye, but you won’t be able to feel a thing. The procedure usually takes around 10-20 minutes to complete.
Benefits of NHS cataract surgery
Restored vision and daily function
Cataract surgery restores clear vision, making it easier to carry out everyday activities. You may also experience improvements in colour perception, brightness, and sharpness.
Reduced dependence on glasses (where applicable)
A monofocal lens (the standard replacement used on the NHS) improves vision for a specific distance. Most people choose to have their monofocal lens set for distance vision, meaning glasses may still be needed for close-up tasks like reading. Likewise, if the lens is set for reading vision, glasses might be required for activities that involve seeing farther away, like driving.
Improved quality of life
By restoring clear vision, cataract surgery improves quality of life, making daily activities easier to carry out. This can also help to maintain independence and boost overall well-being.
Prevention of further vision loss
NHS cataract surgery stops your vision from changing any further. Without undergoing the procedure, it’s likely that vision will gradually get worse over time.
Types of NHS cataract surgery procedures
Standard Phacoemulsification
Phacoemulsification is the standard procedure used for cataract surgery. It involves making a small incision in the cornea (the very front of your eye), and a tiny ultrasonic device is used to break the cataract into smaller pieces. These are carefully suctioned out, and the new artificial lens is inserted to restore clear vision.
Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery (NHS Availability Varies)
During MICS, the surgeon makes a very tiny incision in the eye, often around 1.8–2.2 millimetres (smaller compared to other types of cataract surgery).A tiny ultrasonic device is then used to break the cataract into smaller pieces, and these are suctioned out gently. The new artificial lens, which is usually foldable so it can fit through the tiny opening, is then inserted to restore clear vision.
Choosing the right lens for NHS cataract surgery
Monofocal Lenses (Standard NHS Option)
A monofocal lens is the standard replacement used for NHS cataract surgery. It improves vision for a specific distance (like far away or close up). This is most commonly set for distance vision, but you can choose to have clearer reading vision if you’d prefer.
Toric Lenses for Astigmatism (Where Funded)
Astigmatism is when the cornea at the front of the eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football. A toric lens is a type of intraocular lens designed to correct astigmatism. Toric lenses are rarely provided on the NHS, but are sometimes given to NHS patients with higher levels of astigmatism.
Premium Lenses - Typically Private Add-On
Going private means you’ll have the option to choose from a range of premium lenses. You’ll still be able to have a monofocal lens replacement, but choosing a different type of lens could reduce your dependency on glasses after your cataract surgery (at an additional cost). At Newmedica, our lens options include:
A premium monofocal lens: compared to the standard monofocal lens, this premium lens offers advanced visual outcomes.
A multifocal lens: for good up-close, intermediate and distance vision.
An extended focus lens: provides a continuous focus over a range of distances.
What to expect during your NHS cataract surgery process
GP Referral and Specialist Consultation
If your optician or GP suspects or diagnoses you with cataracts, they’ll talk you through all the treatment options available, as well as where you can choose to receive your NHS cataract treatment. As an NHS patient, you have the legal right to decide which NHS or independent surgical centre, like Newmedica, provides your care when referred for treatment. This means you can choose a provider based on what’s important to you, whether that’s short wait times, proximity to your home, the quality of care provided, or the best replacement lens.
If you’d like to choose Newmedica for your NHS cataract surgery, just let them know, and they’ll make all the arrangements for your referral in line with the locally commissioned NHS pathway.
Surgery Scheduling and Admission
NHS waiting times vary by location. For Newmedica patients, once we’ve received your referral from your optician or GP, we’ll contact you within a few days to book you an appointment. Depending on the Newmedica clinic you go to, our short waiting times mean you'll have your first appointment within just a couple of weeks.
Recovery and Aftercare
After surgery, you’ll need to wait for a bit before going home to ensure you’re okay before leaving. You won’t be able to drive, so you’ll need to have a way home arranged. You’ll be told what you’ll need to do to help your eye heal, and you’ll be given eye drops to use for a few weeks. At Newmedica, we’ll call you the next day to check in and make sure everything’s okay.
Common side effects of NHS cataract surgery
It’s common to experience some side effects after cataract surgery for a few days to sometimes a few weeks, and you’ll be made aware of these at your appointment. This can include blurred or double vision, sensitivity to light, mild red or gritty eyes, watery eyes, and mild pain. These symptoms should clear up as the eye heals, but if they persist or get worse, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, this could be a sign of a complication. You’ll be told the potential risks and complications so you’re aware of what to look out for. At Newmedica, our patients are given access to an emergency phone number to call if needed.
NHS cataract surgery waiting times and process
NHS waiting times vary by location, depending on factors such as hospital capacity and demand. If you’re on an NHS waiting list, you have the right to ask to go to a different hospital or clinic if you’d prefer. This way, you can choose a location with shorter waiting times. Some people also choose private cataract surgery to avoid long waiting times.
NHS cataract surgery at Newmedica
Newmedica are a leading provider of NHS-funded and private Ophthalmology services, and care for over 306,000 private and NHS patients a year in more than 30 locations across England. Our modern clinics provide a calm atmosphere, all with the latest equipment and facilities, to give you the best possible experience. From the second you walk through the door, our compassionate team will give you a warm welcome and will be committed to making sure you feel comfortable and cared for during your visit. We have short waiting times, so you’ll have your first appointment within a couple of weeks. Our skilled team provides the highest standard of healthcare and will always take time to answer any questions you have and ensure you stay informed every step of the way.