Published UK private hospital prices, September 2026.
NHS ophthalmology waits were around 11 weeks median in mid-2026.
What's usually included
Most packages include the surgery, a standard monofocal lens, eye drops and follow-up checks. Pre-operative assessment may or may not be included — check before booking.
Example published prices
- Practice Plus Group: £2,099 (source)
- Circle Reading: from £2,500 (source)
- PHIN average package prices: £2,522 (Sheffield) to £3,417 (Cardiff) (source)
Prices are published "from" or guide prices and can change. Your consultant, the hospital, London location and medical complexity can all raise the final cost — always ask for a written, all-inclusive quote.
Self-pay or health insurance?
Paying yourself makes sense if you need one known procedure now — health insurance won't cover a condition you already have. Insurance is designed for what might happen in future: it spreads the cost of unexpected diagnosis and treatment into a monthly premium. See our guide to self-pay vs health insurance, or estimate what cover would cost you.
Read more about cataracts: symptoms, waiting times and treatment.
Questions and answers
How much does private cataract surgery cost in the UK?
Private cataract surgery usually costs £2,000–£4,000 per eye with a standard lens. Premium lenses, such as multifocal or toric lenses, cost significantly more. Prices vary by hospital, consultant and location, so always ask for a written, all-inclusive quote.
What's included in the price of private cataract surgery?
Most packages include the surgery, a standard monofocal lens, eye drops and follow-up checks. Pre-operative assessment may or may not be included — check before booking.
Will health insurance pay for cataract surgery?
If you have private health insurance and the condition started after your policy began, your insurer will usually cover it, subject to your policy terms, limits and excess. Conditions you had before taking out cover are normally excluded, so insurance won't help with treatment you already need.
Can I get cataract surgery on the NHS instead?
NHS ophthalmology waits were around 11 weeks median in mid-2026. Ask your GP about your NHS options, including choosing where you're treated.
Can I spread the cost of private treatment?
Many private hospitals offer finance or payment plans for self-pay patients. Check the interest rate and terms carefully before agreeing.
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