Lens Eye Surgery in UK

If you’re struggling with age-related farsightedness, cataracts, or high prescriptions that cannot be corrected with laser, lens eye surgery can restore clear vision and improve quality of life.

At AccuVision, we provide tailored intra-ocular procedures, from lens replacement surgery options such as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and cataract surgery to Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery at clinics across the UK. Our specialists do not prescribe a “one-size-fits-all” solution; instead, we explain every option and help you with the right treatment.

What is Lens Eye Surgery?

Lens Eye Surgery refers to procedures performed inside the eye (intra-ocular) rather than on its surface. These treatments either replace the natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct vision, or add an extra lens inside the eye to improve focus and adjust the prescription.

• Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

  Also known as clear lens extraction, RLE removes the crystalline lens and replaces it with a customised IOL.This approach works in a similar way to cataract surgery and is used to treat presbyopia along with various other refractive vision problems. RLE focuses on the lens because, with age, it loses flexibility and causes difficulty focusing on near objects.

• Cataract (Lens) Surgery

  Involves removing the eye’s cloudy natural lens and implanting a clear artificial lens in its place. Cataracts occur when proteins in the lens denature with age or due to UV exposure, radiation, or conditions like diabetes. In the 2022–2023 period, more than 516,000 cataract surgery procedures were carried out in England.

• Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Surgery

  A thin, flexible phakic lens is implanted behind the iris and in front of the natural lens. ICLs are considered an “additive” option, meaning they can be removed later if needed. They are suitable for individuals with very high or complex prescriptions, as well as those with thin or irregular corneas or keratoconus.

In all types of lens eye surgery, a small incision is made to insert a biocompatible lens. Lens replacement surgery removes the natural lens, while ICL surgery keeps it in place. We’ll advise you on the most appropriate option during your consultation.

Why Choose AccuVision for Lens Eye Surgery?

Many clinics offer only expensive intra-ocular surgery for people over a certain age, sometimes because of limited technology. At AccuVision we take a different approach:

• Personalised assessments – our experienced corneal and intra-ocular specialists evaluate your prescription, corneal profile, and eye health to determine whether lens replacement surgery, ICL surgery, laser vision correction, or a combination is best.
• Range of treatments – by combining cutting-edge diagnostics with a wider range of lasers and lenses, we often successfully treat patients who are deemed unsuitable for the parameters of high street technologies, helping them achieve excellent outcomes
• Transparency & education – we explain all risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision. Our clinics are CQC registered.
• Nationwide clinics – we operate clinics in London, the Midlands (Solihull), and Yorkshire (Wetherby), making lens replacement surgery and ICL surgery accessible with short waiting times.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Lens eye surgery may be appropriate when:

• Your prescription is too high, or your corneal profile is too complex for laser treatment.
• You already have visually significant cataracts or would benefit from an early cataract procedure due to a shallow anterior chamber or high intra-ocular pressure.
• You are over the age of 40, experiencing presbyopia, and want to reduce or remove your dependence on reading glasses, and the above two points apply in your case.
• You have a clinically significant cataract.

There is no strict age limit – patients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond can undergo lens eye surgery if their eye health is good. A comprehensive pre-operative assessment with an eye surgeon is essential to confirm your suitability. People with glaucoma or certain medical conditions may need special consideration.

How Much Does Lens Eye Surgery Cost in the UK?

AccuVision offers transparent pricing and finance options for all lens eye surgery treatments. We are currently offering a complimentary screening consultation to assess your suitability for vision correction procedures. Please contact the clinic team to book your complimentary screening.

Lens eye surgery cost in the UK starts from £2,500 per eye and includes post-operative care. Costs may vary depending on the type of intra-ocular lens, technology, and clinic location. Health insurance often covers cataract surgery, but you should check your policy. For a tailored quote, book a consultation with our clinical team via our pricing page.

Lens Eye Surgery Procedures: Step-by-Step

Procedure steps vary depending on whether you are having lens replacement eye surgery or ICL implantation.

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

• Comprehensive exam & plan – we conduct a detailed eye examination and create a personalised treatment plan.
• Preparation – The team will help you prepare for surgery, and on the day, various further checks and steps are carried out for your safety and comfort. including use of numbing drops
• Lens removal – A small opening is created in the cornea to access and remove the natural lens. Ultrasound energy gently breaks up and removes the natural lens. In some cases, your surgeon may use a Femtosecond laser to assist with this part of the procedure.
• Lens insertion – A custom-selected IOL is inserted through the same incision.
• Recovery – Surgery for each eye can take 15–30 minutes; most patients notice clearer vision within one to two days.

Cataract Surgery

Performed under local anaesthesia with eye-numbing drops. A small opening is created near the corneal edge to remove the cloudy lens and place the new intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure (phacoemulsification) uses ultrasonic vibrations to fragment the lens so it can be removed through the tiny incision. Vision usually improves by the next day, and most patients can drive or return to work within a few days.
The steps are essentially the same as RLE.

• Preparation – After topical anaesthesia (and optional mild sedation), your eyes are cleaned and prepared for the procedure. The team will guide you through each step before surgery, and on the day, additional checks are carried out for your safety and comfort.
• Incision – A small keyhole incision is made at the edge of the cornea.
• Lens Placement – The soft, flexible ICL is folded and inserted through the incision, then positioned behind the iris and in front of your natural lens (which remains in place).
• Final Checks – The surgeon ensures the ICL is correctly positioned and the incision is sealed naturally without stitches.
• Recovery – You can return home shortly after surgery. Most patients have improved vision within a day or two, though mild discomfort and light sensitivity can occur..

Results: What to Expect After Lens Surgery

After Lens Replacement Surgery

• Treats presbyopia and various other refractive vision problems, helping reduce or even remove the need for glasses or contact lenses. Toric IOLs can also correct astigmatism.
• Most patients return to normal activities within a few days; full healing typically occurs within 4–6 weeks.

After ICL Surgery

• Provides clear vision for high or complex prescriptions while keeping the natural lens.
• Most patients rest for a few days and resume routine activities after the post-operative check.

Risks

Risks of Lens Replacement Surgery

• Dry or red eye, glare or halos, blurry vision
• Rare complications: retinal detachment, cystoid macular oedema, capsular rupture, infection.

Risks of ICL Surgery

• Inflammation, raised intra-ocular pressure (especially early post-op), cataract formation
• Corneal oedema or need for lens repositioning

Our experienced surgeons will discuss these risks with you during your consultation.

Lens Eye Surgery Near Me – Our UK Clinics

AccuVision operates clinics at three locations:

• London Clinic (Fulham) – 42–48 New Kings Road, Fulham, London SW6 4LS
• Midlands Clinic (Solihull) – 3 The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull, Birmingham B91 3DA
• Yorkshire Clinic (Wetherby) – 1 Cromwell Park, York Road, Wetherby, Leeds LS22 7SU

Each clinic offers state-of-the-art facilities and easy access from surrounding regions. Contact us on 0330 123 2020 or via WhatsApp to schedule your complimentary screening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is lens eye surgery safe?
Yes. Both lens replacement surgery and ICL surgery have excellent safety records when performed by experienced surgeons.

Q2. How much does lens eye surgery cost?
Prices start from £2,500 per eye and include post-operative care. Costs vary depending on the type of lens and technology used. Contact us today for a personalised quote.

Q3. Does lens eye surgery hurt?
The procedure is painless due to local anaesthetic or numbing drops. You may feel mild pressure and, after surgery, some temporary discomfort or light sensitivity.

Q4. What’s the difference between lens replacement and ICL?
Lens replacement surgery removes the natural lens and replaces it with an IOL. ICL surgery keeps the natural lens and adds a synthetic lens behind the iris.

Q5. Am I suitable for lens eye surgery if I have astigmatism or high prescriptions?
Yes. Toric IOLs can correct astigmatism during lens replacement surgery, and ICL surgery can treat very high or complex prescriptions not suitable for laser.

Q6. What is the recovery time?
Most RLE patients return to normal activities within a few days; full recovery in 4–6 weeks. Cataract patients often notice improvement by the next day. ICL patients rest for a few days before resuming normal activities.

Q7. Is it possible to undergo lens eye surgery after having laser vision correction?
Yes. Both lens replacement surgery and ICL surgery are possible after laser, subject to suitability checks. In very complex cases, combined laser and lens procedures with a two-step approach (Bioptics) may be recommended by your surgeon to achieve the best final result.

Q8. Will I need glasses after the procedure?
Planned outcomes and risks will be discussed by your surgeon at your visit

Q9. What are the alternatives?
Alternatives include modern laser vision correction procedures such as LASIK or Trans-Epi. AccuVision offers a wide range of laser treatments to suit different corneal profiles. Alternatives are also glasses and contact lenses.

By combining advanced technology, experienced surgeons, and a personalised approach, AccuVision’s lens eye surgery services, including lens replacement surgery and ICL surgery, help you regain clear vision and freedom from glasses with confidence. Reach out to our team for a no-obligation consultation and discover which option is right for you.