What a Private Ophthalmologist Really Costs in the UK (2026)
Last updated 28 August 2026
An ophthalmologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats eye conditions, from cataracts to glaucoma to persistent eye irritation that hasn't cleared up on its own. Based on clinics currently listed on Keystone, a consultation costs £100 to £400, with most clinics charging £150 to £350.
Quick answer: expect to pay roughly £100 to £400 for a private ophthalmology consultation, with most clinics charging £150 to £350. Anything beyond the consultation, like surgery, is quoted separately and can run considerably higher.
What actually drives the price difference
- First visit vs. follow-up. A follow-up appointment is usually priced below a new patient consultation.
- Who you see. A senior consultant ophthalmologist with a particular specialism can charge more than a general consultation.
- Location. Central London clinics tend to sit at the top of the range.
- What comes next. If your ophthalmologist recommends a procedure, for example cataract surgery, that's priced entirely separately from the consultation and can run into the thousands. Always ask for a full procedure quote before committing.
What UK private ophthalmology clinics are currently charging
Based on clinics listed on Keystone (checked 2026-08-28):
| Price | Notes |
|---|---|
| £100 to £150 | Lower end, often follow-up or single-issue appointments |
| £150 to £350 | Where most clinics sit for a consultation |
| £360 to £400 | Higher end, consultant ophthalmologist, new patient |
A couple of clinics list packages around £3,000, but those are procedure bundles (for example laser vision correction) rather than a consultation. Consultation prices are one part of the picture. Procedures like cataract surgery are quoted per eye and separately from any consultation, so don't assume the consultation price gives you the full cost of treatment.
NHS vs private ophthalmology: cost and speed
| NHS | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free at the point of use | Roughly £100 to £400 for the consultation |
| Typical wait for a routine referral | Can be weeks to months, longer for non-urgent procedures | Usually within a week for the consultation |
| Procedures like cataract surgery | Free, but with a wait | Available faster, at a separately quoted cost |
If your vision is affecting daily life and you don't want to wait for an NHS slot, a private consultation gets the diagnosis moving quickly. Whether you then go private for any procedure is a separate decision, since NHS treatment itself remains free.
Compare private ophthalmology clinics near you
Search your postcode on Keystone to see ophthalmology clinics near you, ranked by distance, price and patient rating, and request an appointment directly.
Curious what clinics near you actually charge? Compare real prices, distances and ratings.
Compare private ophthalmology clinics near you →Frequently asked questions
How much does a private ophthalmologist cost in the UK?
Based on clinics currently listed on Keystone, a consultation costs roughly £100 to £400, with most clinics charging £150 to £350. Any procedure recommended afterwards, such as cataract surgery, is quoted and charged separately.
Do I need a referral to see a private ophthalmologist?
Most private ophthalmology clinics accept self-referral, so you can usually book directly. Some prefer a GP or optician referral first, so check with the specific clinic.
Is a private ophthalmologist the same as an optician?
No. An optician tests your vision and prescribes glasses or contact lenses. An ophthalmologist is a doctor who diagnoses and treats medical eye conditions and can perform surgery.
How much does cataract surgery cost privately?
It's priced separately from the consultation and varies by clinic and lens type, often running into the thousands per eye. Always get a specific quote once your ophthalmologist has assessed you.