Cataract Surgery
Phacoemulsification with IOL Implant
Surgery to remove the cloudy lens of the eye and replace it with an artificial lens.
NHS Average Wait
16.0 weeks
Private Cost
£2,400-£3,200
Private Wait
1-2 weeks
Recovery Time
2-4 weeks
NHS vs Private
| Aspect | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free at point of use | £2,400-£3,200 |
| Typical Wait | 16 weeks average | 1-2 |
| Choice of Surgeon | Limited | Full choice |
| Choice of Date | Allocated | You choose |
| Private Room | Shared ward | Private room included |
| Follow-up Care | Included | Included |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the NHS wait for cataract surgery?
The estimated average NHS waiting time for cataract surgery is 16 weeks. Actual waits vary significantly between hospitals — check individual trust pages for current data.
How much does private cataract surgery cost in the UK?
Private cataract surgery costs typically range from £2,400 to £3,200. Private treatment wait is usually 1-2 weeks. Costs vary by provider and location.
Can I choose which hospital for my cataract surgery?
Under the NHS, you have the right to choose which hospital you are referred to for your cataract surgery. You can compare waiting times between hospitals to find the shortest wait.
Approximately 450,000 cataract surgery procedures are performed annually in England.