Are premium cataract lenses worth it?
When you have cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens of your eye is replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL).
For most people, the question is not whether cataract surgery works, it’s one of the safest and most effective procedures available, but what kind of lens to choose.
Private patients often have the option of premium cataract lenses, which can correct a wider range of vision issues and reduce dependence on glasses. But are they worth it?
Let’s take a closer look.
Standard vs premium cataract lenses
On the NHS, cataract surgery usually involves a standard monofocal lens. This type of lens restores clarity by focusing light at one distance, typically far. It means you’ll see well for driving or watching TV, but you may still need glasses for reading or close-up tasks.
In private care, you have the option to choose from premium lenses, including:
- Multifocal or trifocal lenses – give you clear vision at near, intermediate, and far distances.
- Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses – offer a continuous range of focus, ideal for computer work and daily activities.
- Toric lenses – correct astigmatism, giving sharper vision if your cornea has an irregular shape.
What makes premium lenses different?
Premium lenses are designed not only to remove the cataract but also to improve your overall quality of vision. For many people, this means:
- Less dependence on glasses or contact lenses
- Clear vision at multiple distances
- Better performance in modern lifestyles, such as using digital devices, driving at night, and reading comfortably.
Are premium lenses worth the extra cost?
Benefits
- Greater freedom from glasses
Many people with premium lenses no longer need glasses for most activities, from reading a menu to driving. - Personalised vision correction
Your surgeon will recommend the best lens for your lifestyle—whether you want to read without glasses, work on screens, or reduce glare when driving. - Improved confidence and quality of life
Patients often say they feel younger, more independent, and more active after surgery.
Things to Consider
Premium lenses cost more than standard lenses, typically between £4,000–£6,000 per eye for private cataract surgery.
Some premium lenses may also cause visual side effects like halos or glare around lights, especially at night. These usually fade as the brain adapts, but it’s something to discuss with your surgeon.
Not every patient is suitable for premium lenses. If you have certain eye conditions—such as advanced glaucoma, macular degeneration, or severe dry eye—your surgeon may recommend a standard lens instead.
What patients say
Many patients who choose premium lenses are delighted. They often say things like:
- “I can read without glasses for the first time in years.”
- “Driving at night is much clearer now.”
- “I wish I had done it sooner.”
The majority feel the investment was well worth it for the freedom from glasses and the improvement in lifestyle.
Summary
Premium cataract lenses aren’t for everyone, but for many patients, they provide life-changing results. If you want to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses, they are worth serious consideration.
Your suitability depends on your eye health, lifestyle, and goals for vision.
Take our free self-test today to find out if premium cataract lenses could be right for you.
Find out if you are suitable for vision correction
Not everyone is eligible for vision correction surgery.
Find out if you could benefit from this life changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
