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Is it Worth Going Private for Cataract Surgery? Private vs. NHS

Cataracts can significantly impact a person’s vision. As a result, it can make performing daily tasks more difficult, and seriously impact independence and quality of life.

Cataracts become more common as we age. As a result, more than half of adults over 65 suffer from this condition. Some common symptoms include:

  • Blurred vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Difficulty seeing at night

All of these can be extremely debilitating. However, cataract surgery can help to drastically improve these issues. For this reason, cataract surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed in the UK. In fact, the NHS alone performs over 400,000 procedures each year.

However, private cataract surgery is also an option to consider. Below, we explore whether it is worth going private for cataract surgery, including the benefits and drawbacks of private versus the NHS.

Main Benefits of Private Cataract Surgery

Faster Treatment and Reduced Waiting Times

A major advantage of private cataract surgery is the reduced waiting time. NHS waiting times for cataract surgery are significant with patients waiting up to 9 months or even longer in busy areas like London.

During these long wait times, a patient’s vision can get worse, which can continue to affect their quality of life. 

Private cataract surgery, like the services provided by London Vision Clinic, can be scheduled much more quickly – often within weeks – enabling patients to receive faster treatment and avoid growing NHS waiting lists.

Choice of Surgeon and Hospital

Private cataract surgery gives patients more control over the surgeon they choose and the hospital where their treatment is carried out. 

Patients can research and select trusted and experienced surgeons and hospitals with state-of-the-art facilities, providing much-needed peace of mind.

Personalised Care and Attention

Private cataract surgery offers a more personalised experience. The surgeon and clinic/hospital staff are able to get to know the patient, discuss their concerns, and develop a tailored treatment plan. 

Patients also receive more attention and care throughout the process, ensuring a more comfortable and relaxed treatment environment
.

Advanced Technology and Techniques

Private cataract surgery often employs the latest technology and techniques for optimal patient outcomes. An example of this is laser-assisted cataract surgery. Usually, these types of treatment are only available privately.

This type of procedure uses a high-precision laser to create incisions and soften the cataract. The result is a more precise, and less invasive surgery. Using this type of advanced technology can lead to faster healing times, improved visual outcomes, and a reduced risk of complications.

Reduced Risk of Infection

Private hospitals often have a lower risk of infection compared to NHS hospitals. Strict protocols and procedures help prevent infection, and private rooms with reduced exposure to other patients promote faster recovery.

Comprehensive Aftercare

Another benefit of private cataract surgery is aftercare. Private clinics, like London Vision Clinic, offer thorough follow-up appointments. These allow the doctors to track progress and address any concerns from the patient. 

This level of aftercare means patients receive ongoing support, allowing them to recover successfully.

Addressing the Drawbacks of Private Cataract Surgery

Despite many benefits to private cataract surgery, it does have some potential drawbacks. The main one being the associated cost. Therefore, unlike the NHS, patients are required to pay for the procedure.

Here at London Vision Clinic, we recognise this concern and offer various solutions, to help make our services more accessible and affordable. Learn more about our payment plans.

Another concern when going private is the potential for unnecessary or excessive treatments. At London Vision Clinic, we are UK leaders in private eye surgery. Our primary focus is providing high-quality care, part of which is ensuring all patients only receive appropriate treatments for their own individual needs.

Conclusion

Private cataract surgery is worth it, especially if you are looking for a faster and higher level of service to the NHS. The service offered by London Vision Clinic provides many benefits. These include:

  • Faster treatment
  • Choice of surgeon
  • Personalised care
  • Advanced treatment technologies

If you’re considering private cataract surgery, take advantage of our free, no-obligation consultation. This will allow you to discuss your needs and explore the solutions we provide.

Our goal is to help you to make the best choice for your treatment. For more information on Cataract Surgery at London Vision Clinic, get in touch with one of our friendly clinic coordinators or Book a Consultation today.