Do I need a referral from my GP for private cataract surgery?
If you’re considering private cataract surgery, you might be wondering what the first step is. Do you need to go through your GP? Or can you book directly with a specialist?
The answer is simple: you do not need a GP referral to have a consultation or surgery privately at Mitry Vision.
In this blog, we explain how the private cataract process works, how it differs from the NHS, and how to take the next step toward clearer vision.
What is private cataract surgery?
Private cataract surgery involves the same safe and effective procedure as the NHS, but:
- You’re treated faster
- You can choose your surgeon
- You receive personalised care
- You can select premium lenses that reduce the need for glasses
It is done by a consultant ophthalmologist in a high-quality private clinic, often using the latest technology.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can book directly with Mitry Vision.
A GP referral is helpful if you have one, but it is not required. Many of our patients contact us directly after noticing that their vision is changing, or if they are frustrated with long NHS waiting times.
We can assess your eyes, confirm your diagnosis, and plan your treatment—all without you needing to wait for a GP appointment first.
What happens when you contact us?
You can:
- Book a free telephone assessment to discuss your symptoms and get advice
- Schedule a consultation at a time that suits you
- Take our free suitability self-test online
At your consultation, we will carry out a full eye scan, confirm whether you have cataracts, and explain your options.
What are the benefits of going private?
- Speed
- No long waiting lists. You can often have your consultation and surgery within weeks.
- Choice
- Choose your lens type and discuss options that reduce your need for glasses.
- Continuity
- You’ll be treated by the same consultant from start to finish.
- Comfort
- Calmer settings, more time with your consultant, and longer appointments.
What if I’ve already seen my GP?
If your GP has confirmed a cataract or has referred you for NHS treatment, you can still switch to private care at any point. Just let us know, and we’ll guide you through the process.
Can I return to NHS care later?
Yes. If you choose private surgery for one eye, you can still receive NHS care for the other eye if needed in the future. Private and NHS care are not linked.
What lenses are available privately?
With private surgery, you can choose from:
- Monofocal lenses (correct one distance)
- Multifocal or trifocal lenses (for reading and distance)
- Toric lenses (correct astigmatism)
We’ll help you choose the lens that best suits your lifestyle.
Final thoughts
You do not need to wait for a GP referral to access private cataract surgery. You can book directly with Mitry Vision, start the process quickly, and take control of your eye health.
If you are unsure where to start, try our free self-test or book a no-obligation phone call with our team.
Take our free suitability self-test to find out if private cataract surgery is 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:
