Making private cataract care more affordable to more people.

What is private cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is a common procedure that restores clear vision. It involves removing the cloudy lens (cataract) and replacing it with an artificial lens (called an intraocular lens). Cataract surgery usually takes around 10-20 minutes to complete. Private cataract surgery involves getting this procedure done privately rather than through the NHS.

At Newmedica, our private cataract surgery offers a convenient and timely solution with expert care.

Who can benefit from private cataract surgery?

If it’s becoming difficult to see and pursue your normal daily activities, such as reading and driving, cataract surgery can restore clear vision and improve quality of life. Going private is particularly beneficial for people who want faster access to cataract surgery, specialist lens options, and tailored care. 

How does private cataract surgery work?

Cataract surgeries are usually performed under a local anaesthetic, either by eye drops or anaesthetic around the eye (there won’t be any needles). Your consultant will create a tiny incision in the eye to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with the new artificial lens. You’ll be awake for the surgery and may see some movement around your eye, but you won’t be able to feel anything. The procedure normally takes around 10-20 minutes to complete.

We understand that many people feel nervous about undergoing cataract surgery, so our theatre teams will be there to ensure you’re completely comfortable throughout the procedure. If you’re feeling anxious, someone from our team can hold your hand, and if you’d like, we can even put your favourite music on to help you relax.

Your private cataract surgery journey

Referral

Speak to your optometrist or contact us to book a free consultation. We’ll be in touch within 24 hours to guide you through the next steps and arrange your consultation – usually within 10 days.

Consultation

You’ll be greeted by our patient co-ordinator, who’ll introduce you to your consultant. After eye tests and measurements, we’ll explain your lens options and help you choose a lens that best suits your needs. Surgery is then scheduled – often within a few weeks, or at a time that’s most convenient for you.

Surgery

Our theatre team will ensure you’re comfortable throughout. We’ll apply drops to dilate and numb your eye, before you meet your consultant to discuss any final questions. The surgery is complete in around 15 minutes. Afterward, you’ll receive eye drops and aftercare advice, then relax until you’re ready to go home.

Aftercare

We’ll call you the next day to check in. You’ll also have access to an emergency helpline for any urgent concerns. A follow-up will take place a few weeks later, either at our clinic or with your optometrist. We’ll confirm this at your consultation.

Types of private cataract surgery procedures

Phacoemulsification (standard procedure)

This is the standard procedure used for cataract surgery. A small incision is made in the cornea (the very front of your eye), and a tiny device is used to transmit high-frequency ultrasound soundwaves to break the cataract up into small fragments. These fragments are carefully suctioned out, and the new artificial lens is inserted to restore clear vision. 

Micro-Incision cataract surgery (MICS)

MICS involves making a tiny incision in the eye, typically around 1.8–2.2 millimetres (smaller than in other types of cataract procedures). A tiny device is used to break the cataract up into small pieces using ultrasound waves. These small pieces are then gently suctioned out. The new artificial lens, which is usually foldable so it fits through the tiny incision, is then inserted. 

Laser-assisted cataract surgery

This advanced procedure uses laser technology for certain steps of the operation, such as making precise incisions and breaking down the cataract into smaller fragments. The cataract is then removed manually by the surgeon. Please note that this form of treatment is not available at Newmedica.

Choosing the right lens for your private cataract surgery

Before your cataract surgery, our team of experts will check your eyes and discuss the different lens options available. The type of lens you decide to have will determine how well you see without glasses after your surgery. 

Monofocal lenses

A monofocal lens improves your vision for a specific distance (like up close or far away) and is the standard replacement used for NHS cataract surgery. When choosing private cataract surgery, a monofocal lens replacement is still an option. However, selecting a different lens type could reduce your dependency on glasses after your surgery (at an additional cost). One option is a premium monofocal lens, which offers advanced visual outcomes compared to a standard monofocal lens. 

Multifocal and trifocal Lenses

A multifocal lens is a specialist lens type which provides clear vision at more than one distance. There are different types of multifocal lenses, including trifocal lenses, which provide good vision at three distances: close-up, intermediate, and distance. 

Toric lenses for astigmatism

A toric lens is a type of intraocular lens designed to correct astigmatism (when the cornea at the front of the eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football). 

What to expect during your private cataract surgery process

Consultation and diagnostic assessment

When you arrive for your consultation, you’ll be greeted by our patient coordinator, who will introduce you to your consultant. After a number of eye tests and measurements, we’ll talk you through your lens options and help you choose the one that best suits your needs. Your cataract surgery will then be scheduled, often within a few weeks, or at a time that suits you. 

Surgery

Before you meet your consultant to discuss any final questions, we’ll apply drops to numb and dilate your eye. You’ll then undergo surgery, which is usually completed in around 10-20 minutes. 

Recovery, aftercare, and follow-Up

After your surgery, you’ll be given eye drops and aftercare advice. You’ll be able to relax until you’re ready to go home (but you won’t be able to drive on the same day). You’ll have access to an emergency helpline if you have any urgent concerns, and we’ll call you the next day to check in. A follow-up appointment will take place a few weeks later, and we’ll confirm this at your consultation.

Common risks and side effects of private cataract surgery

It’s normal to experience some side effects following cataract surgery for a few days to a few weeks, and you’ll be made aware of these at your appointment. This can include blurred or double vision, mild pain, sensitivity to light, red or gritty eyes, and watery eyes. These symptoms usually improve, but if they persist or worsen, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, this could indicate a complication.

Although most patients don’t experience complications, all surgery carries some risks. These can include increased eye pressure, eye infection, swelling, and dry eye. Our team will go over the risks and signs of complications so you’re aware of what to look out for. 

Posterior capsular opacification is also a common complication of cataract surgery, where the membrane behind the artificial lens becomes cloudy, causing symptoms similar to those of cataracts. It can be treated easily with a procedure known as YAG laser capsulotomy.

How much does private cataract surgery cost?

Your cataract treatment journey at Newmedica will start with a free cataract consultation. Our private cataract surgery starts from just £2,295 per eye for a monofocal lens replacement. Our specialist lens options range in cost, and we’ll explain this to you clearly. We offer a single fixed price so that there aren’t any hidden fees for diagnostic tests or consultations to surprise you. This means you pay one price for your replacement lens, surgery, all pre- and post-operative appointments, and all medication.

Expert private cataract surgery at Newmedica

At Newmedica, we provide specialist eye care, focused on protecting people’s sight through treating advanced eye conditions in over 30 convenient locations across England. From the second you visit our modern clinics, which have all the latest equipment and facilities, you’ll be in expert hands. Our experienced and compassionate team, along with our renowned consultants, will do everything to ensure your cataract treatment and lens choice are tailored specifically to your vision and lifestyle. We offer a range of high-quality lenses for cataract patients, starting from just £2295 per eye, ensuring you can get back to doing what you love as quickly as possible. At Newmedica, we’re here to support you whenever you need it, from your first appointment to your last.