Editorial update: 20 October 2026. Prices checked against our published fee schedule on this date; your written treatment quote confirms the costs that apply to you.
NHS and private cataract surgery both treat a cloudy natural lens by replacing it with an artificial one. The decision between them usually involves funding, local appointment availability, lens choices and care arrangements. Paying privately does not guarantee a better visual result.
This guide compares the questions to ask each provider. If you are exploring self-funded treatment locally, our private cataract surgery in London page explains Precision Vision’s pathway.
NHS versus private cataract surgery: practical differences
| Question | NHS-funded care | Private care |
|---|---|---|
| Who pays? | NHS-funded treatment for eligible patients. | You pay, or an insurer may fund eligible treatment under your policy. |
| How do I start? | Ask your optometrist or GP about assessment and referral. | Contact the provider and ask about its assessment requirements. |
| How long will I wait? | Varies by provider, clinical priority and current capacity. Check locally. | Ask for current assessment and surgery availability; it is not guaranteed by an online guide. |
| Which lenses are available? | Monofocal lenses are usual; other options depend on clinical need and local provision. | The provider may offer a wider range, subject to suitability and additional cost. |
| Who provides my care? | Ask which team assesses, operates and reviews you. | Confirm the named surgeon and who handles each stage; arrangements vary. |
| Will I still need glasses? | Possibly, depending on the lens, target focus and outcome. | Possibly. Paying for a different lens does not guarantee freedom from glasses. |
| What if there is a problem? | Ask for the postoperative contact and urgent-care pathway. | Ask who provides urgent care, what is included and any exclusions. |
Check current waiting times for your local provider
Older national figures or one hospital’s longest wait cannot tell you when you will be treated. Ask when you can have an assessment, the likely interval to surgery and how clinical priority affects that estimate.
For a London example, Moorfields states an aim of surgery within eight weeks of NHS referral. This is its published aim, checked on 20 October 2026, not a national average or a guarantee for an individual patient. Confirm availability directly with the service receiving your referral.
If your sight changes while you wait, contact your eye-care team rather than relying on the original timetable. Ask about practical support if reading, mobility, work or driving is becoming difficult.
Lens choices: discuss the trade-offs
A monofocal lens is designed around one main focus. Other lens designs aim to provide a broader range of vision, but are not suitable for every eye or lifestyle. Ask what the proposed lens is likely to mean for reading, computer work, distance vision and night driving.
Do not assume toric lenses are exclusively private: Moorfields describes toric options within its NHS service. Availability elsewhere depends on local provision and clinical assessment. For any lens, ask why it is recommended and what compromises you should expect.
Who will assess, operate and provide aftercare?
Ask for the actual care arrangements rather than assuming one person handles every appointment. At Precision Vision London, the published cataract pathway identifies Dr CT Pillai for consultation and aftercare, with Dr Radwan Almousa performing surgery. Confirm your own arrangements when booking.
Ask who to contact outside normal hours, where an urgent examination would take place and how routine follow-ups are arranged. These questions matter whichever funding route you choose.
What does private cataract surgery cost at Precision Vision?
Our published starting price is £2,650 per eye for a monofocal lens; the listed monofocal toric price is £3,100 per eye. Both eyes at the same respective price would total £5,300 or £6,200. Your assessment and written quote confirm the applicable lens and cost.
A £300 consultation fee applies and is deducted from surgery if you proceed. Check our current fees for the package and payment terms. Ask specifically about aftercare duration, additional procedures and any exclusions. If using insurance, obtain authorisation and check your excess and lens cover before treatment.
Questions to take to your assessment
- How much of my difficulty is caused by cataract, and are other eye conditions limiting my vision?
- What is the expected benefit of surgery for my daily activities?
- Which lens and target focus do you recommend, and when might I still need glasses?
- What are the risks for my eyes and the alternatives to surgery now?
- What is the likely timetable for each eye?
- Who provides follow-up and urgent care?
- If paying privately, what is the full written cost and what is excluded?
Frequently asked questions
Is private cataract surgery a different operation?
The basic operation still replaces the cloudy lens. The lens selection, scheduling and care arrangements can differ. The NHS cataract surgery guide explains the procedure and recovery.
Will I definitely stop needing glasses?
No. Discuss your visual goals and the likely need for glasses with your surgeon before choosing a lens.
Which route should I choose?
Compare the local options against your clinical needs, budget and priorities. You can gather information about private care without committing to an operation.
