Is Laser Eye Surgery Covered By The NHS?

Laser eye surgery is not typically covered by the NHS as it is considered a cosmetic or elective procedure. However, in rare cases where a patient has a severe condition (e.g., scarring from an injury or disease affecting vision), the NHS may provide treatment. Most people will need to seek private treatment.

NHS vs. Private Eye Surgery: What’s Covered and What’s Not

At My-iClinic, we often get asked whether laser eye surgery is covered by the NHS. The truth is, while some essential eye treatments are funded, many vision correction procedures are considered elective and require private care. Below is a comparison of what the NHS covers and how private treatment can provide advanced options with greater flexibility and faster access.

Procedure	NHS Coverage	Reason for NHS Coverage	Private Treatment	Advantages of Private Treatment
Laser Eye Surgery (LASIK/LASEK)	Not covered	Considered elective/cosmetic	Available at private clinics	Advanced technology, quick recovery, personalized care
PRK for severe corneal scarring	Sometimes covered	Only if medically necessary	Available with faster scheduling	Shorter wait times, access to top specialists
Cataract Surgery	Covered	Restores vision in impaired patients	Available with premium lens options	Faster appointments, better lens choices
ICL (Implantable Contact Lenses)	Not covered	Considered elective	Available for high myopia patients	Great for those unsuitable for LASIK
Corneal Transplant	Covered	Essential for vision restoration	Available with newer techniques	Potentially shorter wait time, advanced treatment options
SMILE Laser Surgery	Not covered	Classed as cosmetic	Available at private clinics	Minimally invasive, fast recovery

Waiting Times

One of the biggest differences between NHS and private eye care is waiting times. On the NHS, patients often face long delays, particularly for non-urgent procedures. For example, NHS cataract surgery waiting times can range from 3 to 18 months, depending on the hospital and location. More complex procedures, such as corneal transplants, can take even longer. In contrast, private eye clinics like My-iClinic offer significantly shorter waiting times, with consultations available within days and surgery often scheduled within 2 to 4 weeks. This faster access to treatment means patients can restore their vision and quality of life much sooner, avoiding the frustration of long NHS queues.

Which UK Hospital Is The Best For Eye Surgery?

When considering eye surgery in the UK, several hospitals are renowned for their exceptional care, efficient waiting times, positive patient reviews, personalised attention, and stellar reputations. Here are some top institutions to consider:

Moorfields Eye Hospital, London

Moorfields Eye Hospital is globally recognised for its comprehensive ophthalmic services. Patients benefit from access to world-class eye specialists and cutting-edge treatments. The hospital's commitment to excellence is reflected in its high patient satisfaction rates and numerous positive testimonials. Moorfields offers both NHS and private care options, with private patients often experiencing shorter waiting times. The hospital's dedication to personalised care ensures that each patient receives tailored treatment plans suited to their specific needs.

moorfields.nhs.uk

Royal Manchester Eye Hospital, Manchester

As one of the largest eye hospitals in Europe, Royal Manchester Eye Hospital provides a wide range of specialised services. The hospital has received an 'Outstanding' rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC), highlighting its commitment to high-quality care. Patients frequently praise the hospital for its compassionate staff and effective treatments. While NHS waiting times can vary, the hospital strives to see patients as promptly as possible, and private care options are available for those seeking expedited treatment.

patientclaimline.com

Optegra Eye Hospital, York

Optegra Eye Hospital in York is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and offers a range of ophthalmic assessments and treatments. In partnership with the NHS, Optegra aims to reduce waiting times for procedures like cataract surgery, which can often exceed a year in some areas. By choosing Optegra, patients can benefit from more timely interventions. The hospital is known for its patient-centered approach, ensuring personalised care throughout the treatment journey.

optegra.com

CHEC (Community Health and Eyecare), Various Locations

CHEC is a leading provider of community ophthalmology services across multiple locations in the UK. They are committed to offering patient-focused, responsive, and considerate care. Notably, 100% of patients were offered an appointment within four weeks, demonstrating their efficiency in managing waiting times. With over 25 locations, CHEC provides accessible and timely eye care services, receiving positive feedback for their professionalism and quality of care.

chec.uk

When selecting a hospital for eye surgery, it's essential to consider factors such as waiting times, patient reviews, personalised care, and the institution's overall reputation. Opting for a hospital that aligns with your specific needs and expectations can significantly impact the success of your treatment and your overall experience.

Should You Get Laser Eye Surgery Abroad?

Considering laser eye surgery abroad? While the lower prices may seem tempting, the risks can far outweigh the savings. From higher chances of complications to inadequate aftercare, many patients find themselves needing corrective surgery upon returning to the UK—often at great expense. Before making a decision, it’s crucial to weigh the full picture, including safety, long-term health, and peace of mind. Read our in-depth analysis on whether you should get laser eye surgery abroad here.

London Private Eye Care At It's Finest!

At My-iClinic, we believe that high-quality eye care should never be compromised. Unlike overseas clinics, we offer world-class treatments performed by UK-certified specialists, ensuring the highest safety standards and personalised care. Our advanced technology, shorter waiting times, and dedicated aftercare mean you’ll receive the best possible treatment from consultation to recovery.

John Bolger - Leading UK Private Eye Surgeon

Located in North London, we provide easy access to expert care without the risks of traveling abroad. If you’re considering laser eye surgery, choose safety, trust, and excellence—choose My-iClinic.