Visited the Brighton clinic on 2nd December 2006 for a consultation with the surgeon, Dr. Hoe, and opted for Epi-Lasek to both eyes (incl. 'wavefront') that same afternoon. (I was a little concerned that being diagnosed with MS 8 years ago, I may be unsuitable for treatment, but this was fully discussed with Dr. Hoe, and no problems anticipated in my instance.) I had the following week booked as leave, so that took care of any major urgency of recovery. Well, I won't kid anyone - the op was unpleasant (but not painful) and the smell of burning flesh as my eyes were being treated was rather stronger than I expected !! Immediately after the procedure (which only took a ...  More...

To Mark, If you call Optimax on the Number at the top and tell them you have seen it on E-bay, Thats all you need to do, The cost is very much better on there, Epi Lasek for £395 per eye (-1 to -5 ) and Lasik £1185.  More...

My consultation was on 14th November at the Birmingham clinic. Mr Masilamani (a man of few words) recommended that I went for femtosecond (laser cut flap) LASIK with Wavefront. I asked a number of questions and the surgeon replied by telling me he would get me 20/20 vision or better with no anticipated problems. I even asked if I would be able to return to work in a couple of days, even though I had a week's annual leave booked after the proposed op date, and he confirmed that this was a very real possibility. Especially with femtosecond and Wavefront. So, after a few days to think things over I confirmed my provisional booking for 20th November. I was kept waiting for 2.5 hours on ...  More...

I has my surgery done at the Finchley Road Clinic in London, Dr. Patel was the consultant and the treating doctor. During the consultation I asked a lot of questions and was reassured by the Dr. Patel's experience and knowledge. I also felt that no one was trying to push the expensive treatment but were very open and honest about the expected results and higlighted the possible risks which were minimal. I was -4 in both eyes plus 1.80 ast. Dr. Patel recommended that I would go for the lasik treatment and I opted to use the all laser treatment which meant the flap was created by a laser incision and not by the knife. I had the surgey 6 weeks ago , Dr. Patel kept exlplaining everything ...  More...

Had treatment in Bristol on Nov 22nd with Dr Ayoubi. Femstosecond Lasik, not the most pleasant experience I ever had, but definately worth it now. Am at driving standard already with sight improving daily. Excellent service from a doctor that really seem to care about his patients.  More...

I went to Dr Ayoubi at Southampton in June for my consultation, having purchased through e-bay. My eyes were L -1.75 R -3.00. I had pretty much decided that I wanted lasik on both eyes. However Dr Ayoubi recommended I went for Epi-Lasek on my right eye only, as this was very much my dominant eye, and have monovision. Monovision is usually recommended for older people, and I am only 28, but he felt this would suit me very well, and would hopefully mean I would not need reading glasses when I was older. This worked out far cheaper than I had expected, which gave me confidence that he was not just trying to flog the most expensive treatment. He also recommended that I did not have wavefro ...  More...

I had my treatment done in August, at Optimax in Newcastle with Dr Esselaar, he was so lovely and explained everything as he went along, from start to finish. He totally put me at ease. The difference it has made has been amazing, especially on holiday when I could wear ordinary sunglasses instead of having to take different prescription specs with me. My only regret is not having it done years ago. still have to wear glasses for reading, but even this has improved, as I can read some texts up close without them. I would definately recommend it to anyone. Only downside, a cup of tea would have been appreciated.  More...

How do I go down the Ebay route. Have seen people on there offering £310 vouchers. Do I contact Ebay first or Optimax? Many thanks  More...

I underwent the Lasik Wavefront procedure with femtosecond three weeks ago at the Leeds branch. Right from the initial consultation to the aftercare i have received so far i can not find fault with Optimax. I went from -4.50 plus significant astimagtism in both eyes to 20:20 vision within a week, which is better than i had ever hoped for. The procedure itself was uncomfortable but not painful. The worst part was, not as i had originally imagined, the "lasering", but the cutting of the lense flap. The best way to describe the sensation is that it was like having someone trying to push my eyeballs through the back of my head - not nice but bearable and well worth it in the end. The n ...  More...

I have an appointment booked at the Birmingham Clinic with Dr BI Ilango. I have seen no mention of him in these pages and he is not listed on the Optimax website. I understand he has previously worked out of the Manchester Clinic. Does anyone have any comment to offer? I would be very grateful as, like most people, am a little apprehensive!  More...

I wonder if any body can give me any feedback with regards to Dr Masilamani at the Birmingham clinic. I am due to have my eyes done very shortly and a little frightened!  More...

Further to my posting in early September (4 days after Femtosecond Lasik, I would like to add that my eyesight is now better than 20/20 with just a slight minus prescription of -0.25 and -0.50, which is perfect to allow me to read up-close without reading glasses. I am still amazed at the change to my quality of life without the bother of glasses/prescription sunglasses/lenses etc. etc., although I am just getting out of the habit of looking for my glasses first thing in the morning!!  More...

I had Lasik with Wavefront & Femtosecond on 09/11/06 and I am very happy so far. As said Dr Madu... doesnt say too much, but is very professional, and answers any questions. The operation went fine, no pain at all - quite enjoyed the excitement really. That evening was quite uncomfortable, once the anaesthetic wore off, but by the next morning there was no discomfort. My vision was still a bit hazy, but that got better through the day. My check up the day after the op went well, and I had 20:20 vision. My prescription before was -7.25 & -5.75. Less than 48hrs after the op I was back at work, with no problems at all. Even the day after the op I had no probs cooking or anything - a ...  More...

I had Lasik Wavefront at Optimax, Peterborough with Dr Hill on Mon 06 November. I could not be happier. Dr Hill was so reassuring in his manner, talking me through the process at ach stage so I knew exactly what to expect. The usrgery itself was a breeze, certainly better than a trip to the dentist, even the dreaded burning smell was nothing more than something similar to someone lighting a match. My vision straight after was great and has improved since, so far it is better than 20/20, but I have been advised that it may drop off slightly. The day of treatment was a bit sore, but since then I have been totally pain free and I remain obsessive about using hte prescribed drops to m ...  More...

I have booked to Epi-Lasek at Manchester on 25 November. Even though I have booked Epi-Lasek, I am still undecided whether to opt for Lasik due to less pain and the length of recovery. Has anyone any advice they can give me (I have read several articles regarding Lasik being 'risky'?)  More...

I had Lasik surgery last week @ the Birmingham clinic with Dr Madhusudhan and am very happy with the results! After a bad, off-putting hard sell consultation at Optical express the professionalism & opportunity to meet the surgeon before the day of operation was a breath of fresh air. Although a guy of little words the Dr obviously knew what he was talking about and seemed very honest. He encouraged me not to waste my money on adding Wavefront as it wouldn't help my particular prescription (he also showed me how & why on the wavefront mapping scans that are taken as part of the course). Operation day was nerve racking, and if I'm honest the actual surgery was quite an unplea ...  More...

I had epi-lasek at Southampton Branch this morning. What can I say? The telephone staff were fantastic, so helpful. The clinic staff were so friendly and reasurring, despite me shaking like a leaf, they were fantastic. The consultant was so very friendly adn calming. He explained everything in a way I understood and was so kind and reasurring. Please if you are looking for laser surgery forget the rest and go with Optimax. I cant believe that I had my eyes laseked at 11am this morning! ALthough to be honest there is pain after the drops were off ( about 2hrs later) it doesnt last. I was very uncomfortable but the more you rest the easier it is. The procedure itself was totally pain ...  More...

I've just undergone bilateral treatment via lasik with Optimax at the Leeds branch. I was -8 in both eyes and my main worry was that i would still have to wear glasses after treatment but now 3 days after my operation i'm -0.25 and -0.75. I am so impressed i can not recommend the treatment enough! Although the operation was one that i never wish to experience again it was well worth it and it really was pain free. The only slight discomfort i experienced was dry eyes when trying to sleep. If anyone is reading this (like i was a few weeks ago) wondering if it's the right thing to do then my advice would be to go for it, it's definitely worth it!  More...

After years of contemplation and a fortune spent on contact lenses I finally bit the bullet and opted for laser eye surgery. After much research including a look at this website I decided to go with Optimax. They seemed like a good balance of cost, reputation and convenience. On my initial consultation I was advised on my options for treatment and was never pushed into anything. It was recommended that the LASEK method may be more suitable for me. It's not often that companies recommend the cheaper of their services and it reinforced my initial positive impression and that Optimax were putting the customer before profit. I also opted for the Wavefront treatment - "in for a penny, in f ...  More...

I had Wavefront Epilasek at the Liverpool Clinic on 28/09/06. The surgeon was Dr. Madhusudhan, who, as other people have said, is quite laconic. But that suited me. I prefer a surly bedside manner. Nevertheless, he had fully explained to me, with the aid of images of my eyes on his computer screen, exactly how he would successfully perform the procedure. Before my consultation, I was hoping that I would be suitable for Epi, as it would enable me to return to playing football sooner than LASIK would. For my eyes, the two options were LASIK performed with Femtosecond Laser (which would cost an additional £1000) or Epi with Wavefront (£300 extra). These were the options because I have th ...  More...

Dr Manek Patel was my surgeon about 4 years ago & my sight is perfect 20/20 vision I used to have 2 sets of glasses . I am now free of them - Wonderful  More...

Overall a very positive experience of epi-lasek treatment at the Hove Optimax clinic. Just be aware that the recovery period with lasek can be quite prolonged and the initial post-op pain once the anaesthetic has worn off has the potential to be very debilitating. I was very blase about this before, but trying to lookafter myself for the first 8 hours post-op was horrible. If you are by yourself then make every effort arrange a carer for the first 24 hours. Also, the final results to take a while to take a while to arrive. I am nearly three weeks post-op now and distance vision is still improving. Lastly be aware of that the eyelid can stick to the epithelium overnight causing temporary set ...  More...

Already posted twice before in March and April 06. Went for my 6 month checkup last week at Southampton. Surgeon was Dr Ayoubi. Right eye was 20:10 and left eye was 20:20, so an excellent result for LASIK I was -6 in both eyes before surgery. Still use the moisturising drops after waking up and after cycling as the wind can dry your eyes. Very happy with result. I use binoculars, telescopes and microscopes quite a lot, makes it much easier without glasses!! £1400 well spent in my view.  More...

I had Lasik with Wavefront at the Liverpool branch on 28/09/06. Didn't feel a thing. Dr. Madhusudhan is a man of few words, but makes you feel calm about the whole procedure. I have a check up on the 03/10/06. Still find it a bit strange from looking at things in the distance and then to reading, but hoping things will improve over the next few weeks. The staff at the Liverpool brance where really nice and helpful. Would recommend it and don't be worried because it doesn't hurt and have had no pain at all.  More...

I had femtosecond lasik with wavefront on 1st September and found the whole procedure to be painless and far less traumatising than I'd expected, given some of the reviews I'd read! Dr Patel, who was very informative and caring throughout, performed the procedure at London Optimax. Vision afterwards was a little hazy but definitely immediately improved. I had no pain at all afterwards (just a little grittiness for a couple of hours) and returned the following day to find I had gone from -4 and -3.75 to -1 and -1.25. My vision fluctuated a little for a couple of days, but now 4 days later seems to be improving daily. I feel as if a miracle has happened!! Please don't hesitat ...  More...

I had femtosecond Lasik surgery last Thursday at the Croydon branch. To be honest I'm quite disappointed as my vision is till not 100%. I know it does have a tendancy to fluctuate and it is still very early days, but everyone that has had the femtosecond seems to have 20/20 vision next day - is there anyone who has had any problems? My eyes are very blurry and I have good days and bad - I've been told I'm at driving standard, but I feel I'm not as I can't see number plates clearly and don't have the confidence to and I've been driving 12 years. If anyone has had the femtosecond Lasik, please let me know how you got on!  More...

I had femtosecond,wavefront Lasik at the Birmingham on 11th Sept 06 and my pre op sight was -4.50 & -4.75. I had wanted surgery for a while but have been pregnent & or breast feeding for the last 4 years and finally managed it. My husband did all the research and bought it through ebay for my birthday, it seems a bit naff as it was my eyesight but it saved us approx £500. I met the surgeon Dr Madhusudhan at the initial consultatation and although a man of few words he had a sense of humour and soon put me at ease.He performed the op 6 days later and I can honestly say there was no pain at all,just a strange feeling and some discomfort but over and done within 30 mins.I returned the ne ...  More...

I had epi-Lasek performed at the Peterborough clinic last wednesday and am already back to work 5 days later. So far so good! The procedure itself is painless, as everyone on this site seems to agree, but the pain afterwarrds for about 24 hours was pretty bad. My eyelids were swollen and my eyes were streaming for hours. Fortunately this cleared the next day and I was just left with a feeling of really heavy eyelids and a sensitivity to light. All of these symptoms went on the saturday when I had the bandage lenses out. I was told my eyes were healing well and to keep using the refresh eye drops for as long as i needed to, although that's not very often now. I'm almost at driving ...  More...

I want to get LASIK with WAVEFRONT done on both my eyes from OPTIMAX. But anybody have any idea about their Liverpool clinic? Which surgeon operates there and how good is he? Any information about the Liverpool Optimax clinic would be helpful.  More...

Hi I'm booked in for a consultation and surgery with Dr Hynes at Manchester at the end of September has anyone had any experiences of him and the Manchester clinic.  More...

I am due to have a consultation at Optimax (Birmingham) with Dr Madhusudhan - can anyone provide me with experiences they have had as I am extremly nervous at the moment  More...

I had epi LASEK treatment at the Bristol clinic. The procedure itself was quick and painless. The surgeon placed tempoary contact lenses on both eyes afterwards and they remained there for 5 days. I am not used to wearing them so I found them very uncomfortable and I had difficulty sleeping. When the lenses were taken out my eyes were very painful and the vision poor. The pain eased after 24 hours but it has taken nearly eight weeks for my eyes to heal. Initially I was very dissapointed with the level of my eyesight but the optician kept reassuring me that it would improve. And to be fair it now has and it is almost pin sharp for distance - but as I have said it has taken some time in my ca ...  More...

I took a lot of time and trouble recently to send my comments on my experience at Optimax and wonder why it has not been entered on website. I am a genuine customer who is extremely happy with the procedure and the outcome and wanted to share my delight with anyone considering, but apprehensive about going ahead with femtosecond lasik. I had a very positive experience and am absolutely thrilled to leave my glasses behind and couldn't fault the care I received by Dr. Patel at Optimax, London. Donna Chalk 11.09.06  More...

Thought I would write this after my 3 month (although more like 4 month!) check up. I had the epi-lasek treatment on 15th April 2006 and it was the best decision I have ever made. Following on from some comments on here, I made sure that I got my treatment at the Ebay price of £895 for both eyes which includes the consultation. I had booked to have the consultation with the option of having treatment straight after. The only thing I would say about this is, if you are unsure about getting the treatment, you may feel pressured into having it done as the treatment has already been booked. I wasnt sure whether I would be recommended by epi-lasek or lasik or either with wavefront so I ...  More...

I have just had lasik on 7/9/06 at the Liverpool branch & I can feel the difference already because I am long sighted with an astimitism this can take a little longer to feel the full benefit. The service was great, I will inform you all in a couple of weeks on any further improvements. It was a good decision to get it done.  More...

Hi, I've already written once just after I had lasik treatment with femtosecond & wavefront on the 19th July 2006.If you look through the comments you will see it. I felt that I had to add another comment, because someone had written saying that she had been on an aeroplane and the dryness of her eyes ruined her holiday. We have just come back from Greece. It was a 3 3/4 hour flight. I had no problem. I took a full box of refresher drops with me - just in case. My eyes were definately not dry. The only time they do get a little dry is at night when I am tired. All I want to say is that everyone is different. I do not regret one nanosecond having had the procedure. Julie Sheldon  More...

As I am longsighted,I am considering lasik (flap cut) surgery at the Liverpool branch of Optimax. All the comments I have read so far seem to be from shortsighted people and there has been no feedback from patients of the Liverpool clinic. Is there a longsighted person who can has had this proceedure at Liverpool or anywhere else who can comment.  More...

As I am longsighted, I am considering Lasik (flap cut) surgery at the Liverpool branch of Optimax. All the comments I have read so far seem to be from shortsighted people and there has been no feedback from patients of the Liverpool clinic. Is there a longsighted person who can has had this proceedure at Liverpool or anywhere else who can comment?  More...

Not a pleasant expierience, but worth it .  More...

Hi - i am booked in at the Newcastle CLinic on Saturday with Dr Jalpotta - has anyone been treated by him and if so please can you give me any info! thanks!  More...

I had Epi-Lasek on the 19th August 06 at Optimax in Newcastle. I was really nervous about getting the treatment done and did loads of research on it! The day of treatment i just tried to forget about it and remain calm. I had my consultation and Dr Jalpota really reassured me and made me feel very confident that i was making the right decision. Due to a cancellation that day he treated me an hour earlier which was probably best as this meant i had less time to sit and worry! As my name was called to go in for treatment i felt really nervous but just walked in and tried to keep calm. Drops were put into my eyes to numb them and i was asked to lay on the dentist chair. Dr Jalpota came i ...  More...

Can anyone give me ant feedback about the clinic in Brighton? It would be really appreciated....have been thinking about getting corrective surgery for years but need some encouragement pls!! Very short-sighted and fed up wearing contact lenses.  More...

I had intralase lasik wavefront surgery with monovision correction at Optimax Manchester by Dr Boezaart on 4th August, just 2 weeks ago. My prescription was -2.5 with -4 astigmatism right eye and -2.25 with -3.5 astig left eye. I chose to have the monovision due to my age (48). The procedure was quick and totally painless, and I instantly had clear vision in my right eye, the one left slightly short sighted for reading. My left eye was rather misty. About 2 hours after the procedure, both eyes started watering profusely and stinging, as though I had been peeling 1000 onions! This lasted just 1 and a half hours, when it stopped as quickly as it started. I felt slight discomfort in my right ey ...  More...

I had Femtosecond Wavefront LASIK on both eyes on 1st August 2006. MY pretreatment prescription was -5.5 in my R eye, and -4.75 in my L eye. I did loads of research prior to committing myself and decided that Optimax provided the best value for money and the most advanced technology. Dr Patel was my surgeon and I can't fault him. He is lovely, and I feel that he actually takes a personal interest in every person he treats. I experienced no pain at all, went home and went to bed. The following morning I had my first aftercare appt - I was still short-sighted with -1.5 in my R eye and -1 in my L. This upset my no end. I thought given that I had undergone the 'top of the range&# ...  More...

I had Epi-Lasek treatment at Optimax Birmingham in August this year after going to see one of their competitors. Oddly enough, I bought my treatment through Ebay of all places, and saved myself an absoulte packet! My wife had her eyes done at Optimax three years ago and I wish I'd done it back then as well. It is, as they all say, a miracle - after an initial period of 18 hrs I was pain free, and most of that I spent asleep overnight. I had my treatment on a Tuesday, was using my computer briefly on thr Friday, and by the Monday I was back at work. In the intervening weekend I had the bandage lenses out and a quick eyetest proved my vision was at least 20/20. My eye test was perfor ...  More...

I had femtosecond wavefront lasik treatment( also known as Intralase I believe ) on the 24/7 at Birmingham Optimax, surgeon Mr Madhusudhan. My pre treat prescription was L-6.1 /R-5.75 with mild astigmatism. I thought I would put a post on here to tell you about my experience. As I guess if you are reading this you are looking for information pre-treatment, I think I read all 600 reviews before finally committing myself. I had both eyes treated on the same day. In this particular treatment a laser is used to create the flap, the eye is lasered and the laser creates bubbles allowing the surgeon push the flap aside. This part of the operation was uncomfortable but this is mainly ...  More...

Although I had my consultation at Leicester, as I was -8 short sighted and +2 Long sighted, the consultant Mr Oberholster recommended Wavefront, and after reading Optimax's literature (plus others) I had already decided that I also wanted Femtosecond, Optimax has 5 of the 7 Lasers to cut the flap for Lasik treatment, but they didn't have one at Leicester, so I went to Birmingham. It was still Mr Oberholster that did the procedure at Birmingham, this made me feel much more confident. I went for my consultation on Tuesday 18th July 2006, went to Biringham for the treatment on Wednesday 19th and back to Leicester on the 20th for a check up. Although I was absolutely petrified, everythi ...  More...

I am hoping to have laser surgery at the Bristol clinic. Can anyone recommend a surgeon there? Thanks Helen  More...

I have just flown to USA - I didn't bring any eye drops on the plane with me and not long into the flight noticed how dry my eyes were with the air on board. It took at least a week for my eyes to stop being blurred and to be able to drive. Just a word to the wise - pack some eye drops in your flight bag!  More...

My overall opinion from the consultation through to the after care was excellent. Obviously when the treatment is booked nerves then set in and on the day of the treatment I was a nervous wreck. I have not got a very high pain threshold but can honestly say that if I had to go through the experience again I would have no second thoughts, I would not hesitate in recommending this to anyone thinking about it. I only wish I had done it years ago!  More...

Hi, I have now canceled my surgery with Optical Express and have now taken the opportunity with Optimax for the price of £1590 Wavefront via Ebay. This is £900 cheaper!!! I have booked my consultation for early August and if found to be suitable I am able to have surgery the very next day! I am still very panicky, does anyone know or has had surgery with Optimax surgeon Dr André Oberholster, Leicester? Any information good or bad would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance for your helps ... and for the previous replies. Will keep you posted on any updates. Wish me luck and good luck to you!!!  More...

I am booked in for epi-LASEK at the Ipswich clinic with surgeon, T Materman. I can't find any information about this surgeon, including on Optimax's own website! I f any one has had surgery done by him or knows anything about him,I would be really grateful for some information. Thank you.  More...

Had Lasik 2 days ago and it's a miracle! Had a consultation with Optical Express first who were very poor. I wouldn't get to see the surgeon until the day of the operation and only then would I find out whether I was having Lasek or Lasik. With 3 small children, I didn't want Lasek because of the recovery time. Still waiting 28 days later for return of £400 deposit!! Booked with Optimax in Peterborough for 27/6. They did lots more diagnostic tests and you see the surgeon who will operate. Dr Hill was excellent. He has a very reassuring manner and answered all my questions very fully. My prescription was L -5.0 R -6.75 and I had 7mm pupils which are larger than norm ...  More...

I had Epi-Lasek almost 10 years ago. I was advised by my doctor not to go ahead with the procedure as it was relatively new at this point. I took no notice of my doctor and have not regreted it since. It's the best thing I have ever done. I have recommended this treatment to many friends whom all have said the same thing to me. They think it's marvellous. The treatment that I had was painful for 2 days, but you can cope with the pain as they provide all the painkillers you need and the after treatment is excellent too. I felt very well treated. If you are concidering this treatment, I would not hesitate it is well worth it. And the first time that you open your eyes and you can ...  More...

I had bi-lateral epi-lasek 2 weeks ago at the new Optimax clinic in Belfast. This was an enhancement as I had Lasek done in May 2005 with the Advanced Laser Clinic in Belfast. Unfortunately I was one of the 3-4% that needed retreated after Lasek. I was -3.75 in both eyes a year ago and then regressed to -1.25 & -1.00 and needed glasses again. I was really disappointed that it hadn't work the way I'd hoped and felt I'd wasted my money. After the Advanced Laser Clinic agreed that I needed retreated, they went into liquidation a week later and I had to wait 10 months for Optimax to open as they had taken over the clinic. I had my initial consultation in May and Optimax agreed t ...  More...

I had my Lasik surgery two and a half weeks ago with Dr Pauw in Hull, I must say Hull were just absolutely marvellous, i had previously had a consultation elsewhere and they were very sales orientated and trying to push me in to paying a £200 deposit, where as in hull Becky told me to go away and read the information she gave me ad have a good think about it. In the meantime the other clinic kept on calling me trying to badger me in to paying a deposit which i found very unprofessional. When i went in for my surgery the Hull branch were fabulous. They made me feel at ease totally, the surgery was very scary as i didnt know what to expect, and the only discomfort during was the eye clamp. aft ...  More...

Had Lasik at the Finchley Road, London branch with Dr Patel in May 2006. The surgery was uncomfortable but not painful and my recovery was swift. Unfortunatley I still have a significant astigmatism in both eyes and have been advised by Dr Patel I will need retreatment, at least in my left eye. I'll have to wait at least another 4 months before I can have this though. After 3 weeks I'm just at driving standard but are still noticebly short sighted. My eyesight is much improved compared to pre-treatment but as I can currently not wear contact lenses my eyesight feels a lot worse. I'd recommend you only have treatment if you are prepared to live with having eyesight worse ...  More...

4 years ago I had a consultation at the Bristol Optimax clinic. I Unfortunately can’t remember the name of the consultant, but I ended up putting in a complaint as he was rude and rushed me. As I was trying to ask questions he stood up and walked backwards to the door. I commented that he seemed busy and he replied yes I have other patients to see. I put in a complaint to Optimax and their customer services were terrible – it took something like 6 months to receive a refund on my consultation fee. I didn’t go ahead with the treatment. I am however looking in to it again at different clinics. I have been advised to check out at least 3 places. I think it is important to feel comfo ...  More...

I am considering having treatment at the Manchester Branch of Optimax. Any feedback on the branch, surgeon/doctor, staff, the treatment you had and success/failure would be greatly appreciated.  More...

I had the intralase proceedure using the Femtosecond Laser at Optimax Birmingham on 2/5/06. My Surgeon was Andre Oberholster. My right eye was -2.00 and left -2.75 with astigmatism. I could not see to put nail polish on my toenails without glasses. I booked my appointment via ebay and got a good discount. During my consultation I decided to upgrade and have the intralase proceedure which uses a laser instead of a blade to produce the flap. I found the proceedure itself totally pain free and very fast. There is a smell for about a second or two but I thought it was exactly like the smell when a tooth is being drilled at the dentist. My friend drove me home and I kept my eyes closed for most ...  More...

I had the intralase proceedure using the Femtosecond Laser at Optimax Birmingham on 2/5/06. My Surgeon was Andre Oberholster. My right eye was -2.00 and left -2.75 with astigmatism. I could not see to put nail polish on my toenails without glasses. I booked my appointment via ebay and got a good discount. During my consultation I decided to upgrade and have the intralase proceedure which uses a laser instead of a blade to produce the flap. I found the proceedure itself totally pain free and very fast. There is a smell for about a second or two but I thought it was exactly like the smell when a tooth is being drilled at the dentist. My friend drove me home and I kept my eyes closed for most ...  More...

I HAD THE EPI LASEK PROCEDURE ABOUT A YEAR AGO. I CAN HONESTLY SAY THAT HAVING LASER SURGERY WAS ONE OF THE BEST THINGS I HAVE DONE. I AM ONLY 24 NOW SO I CAN HOPEFULLY ENJOY HAVING NO GLASSES FOR QUITE SOME TIME. I WASNT REALLY NERVOUS ABOUT THE PROCEDURE, MORE EXCITED. I WAS AWARE OF ALL THE POSSIBLE THINGS THAT MAY GO WRONG AND HAD SPOKEN TO FRIENDS AND FAMILY WHO HAD THE PROCEDURE IN THE PAST. THE PROCEDURE WAS SO QUICK AND THE ONLY THING I WAS MORE CONCERNED ABOUT AT THAT TIME WAS WALKING OUT OF THE BRISTOL CLINIC WITH THE PLASTIC LENSES OVER THE MY EYES! NO ONE WARNED ABOUT THEM.. BUT THANKFULLY, I THINK PEOPLE IN BRISTOL ARE USED TO IT BY NOW. I DID HAVE PAIN IN ONE EYE ON THE SIXTH D ...  More...

I had epi laser at Birmingham in January. Cost wise I paid £830 for both eyes and nothing for the consultation because I work for the police. Always ask if you can get a discount and quote every organisation you belong to! The actual operation took 20, I repeat twenty minutes from leaving the reception to getting back!! I couldnt believe how easy it was. I experienced a lot of pain for two days but then pretty much nothing since then. I found it excruciatingly boring laying in a dark room listening to the radio for two days but its worth it, dont strain yourself trying to live normally. Go to bed and stay there with your eyes closed! I occasionally had sore eyes and had to take one ...  More...

It has now been 6 months since my Lasik Op at Southampton with Dr Ayoubi, and I am very pleased with the results. My eyesight used to be -6.5 and -7.0 with astigmatism. I have just had a post check-up and my eyesight is now 0.0 and -0.25, this is a further improvement from a test in January when it was -0.25 and -0.5. Dr Ayoubi says there is still room for improvement! I would recommend this clinic to anyone, and Dr Ayoubi who is just lovely! The reception staff have gone out of their way to accommodate me into their appointment schedule as I live in Germany, and even fit me in when I have been late! This was the best decision I have ever made. Thank you to everyone, especially Dr Ayoubi, a ...  More...

Its now one year since my surgery at Optimax Newcastle. I was worried as I had dry eye, but now my eyes dont even need drops for this. Its the best thing I could have done, and should have done it sooner.  More...

Does anyone have any experiences to share of the Bristol clinic? I visited an open day and wasn't particularly impressed so any feedback from people who have actually been treated there would be much appreciated.  More...

Purchased Epi-Lasek from Optimax FROM EBAY at a bargain price, visited the Ipswich clinic and found the staff to be both professional and knowledgable. The procedure was explained in detail and all possible side effects were described. I have just been discharged from them after having had my 6 month after-care appointment with 20/20 vision. Consider the fact that I had worn glasses since I was 6 (Im now 38), so it's a big big change.. If you are a glasses wearer, don't be afraid.. Do it now, its the best thing you will ever do. (And no this isnt a fake review, it is 100% geniune and I am one very satisfied customer!)  More...

Has anyone had surgery with Optimax having bought it through e-bay? It appears that if they are having trouble filling their surgery slots their advertise on e-bay at a very reduced rate. Was just wondering if anyone has actually gone through with this and if they have any comments?  More...

This is an update from when I had my surgery 30.03.06, eyesight is fantastic still very pleased with the result, I had my aftercare appointment booked today and I am very unhappy with the customer service received from the clinic manager in Bristol(tracey), my appointment was booked today at 2.15pm, I had a message on my mobile at 1pm saying the optometrist due to see me had gone home due to sickenss and they were cancelling my appointment, I live in Cardiff and was half way there at this time! anyway sickness cant be helped but I chose optimax as they were one of the largest companies and you would think a company of their size would have another optometrist available, I phoned the clinic t ...  More...

Update on previous posting 20/3/06 Southampton branch, Dr Ayoubi, see below. Had my third aftercare appointment with the Optimetrist on 5th May, 8 weeks postop. Right eye is 20:15, bottom line of chart, an excellent result for my dominant eye. The left eye is -0.5 prescription, a huge improvement on -6.25 though! All the astigmatism has been corrected apparently. Still using the moisturising drops 4-5 times a day, especially after computer/close focus work. A little bit annoying but not too bad, will hopefully improve. So overall a good result. I was advised its not worth attempting to relaser the -0.5 left eye as the margin of error of the laser was also 0.5!! The possible marginal ...  More...

Has anyone had Wavefront & does it make a difference to night vision? My surgeon said I can choose it if I want. I dont know if I should just have Standard Lasik. Advice needed pls!!  More...

Had surgery 19th Dec 2005. Absolutely thrilled with result - 20/20 vision. Have told everyone I know how great Optimax is. Thank you so much - it's a real life changer - I love it!  More...

I had epi-lasek on Monday 24th April at Hove near Brighton, I was really lucky to get it free through a promotion at work. I had considered having the operation for many years but was not planning on doing anything until I was in my late 20's I am only 21 now. My vision was -2.50 and -3.25 with stigmatism, the operation was very quick there was no pain maybe just a slight discomfort but I may have made that worse as I was quite tense, i could smell burning from the laser on your eye that made me feel quite sick, the operation was over in about ten minutes in total and I was straight out and on my way home, I wasn't prepared for the pain afterwards though, I can honestly say its th ...  More...

My experience from the first consultation through to the aftercare was fantastic, staff where professional and friendly. The surgoen was re-assuring and extremley competent. This has been a life changing experience (which my daughters would confirm)and I would recommend Lasik and Optimax to anyone  More...

I need some advice please, i dont know wether to have lasik or epi-lasek, what would anyone reccomend? I have very very sensitive eyes ayway, and dont think i could cope with the pain through epi? Anyone got any advice??  More...

Helen - I am with you in your message. I had LASIK surgery at the Advanced Laser Eye Surgery in Edinburgh in January 2003. The surgery did work and I did have 20/20 vision but I now fear that I am going to have to get glasses/contacts again because my eye sight has deteriorated again. Very upsetting as I thought I had thrown the glasses away for good! The surgery closed in Edinburgh a couple of years ago so I can't even get back to them to discuss! Just wanted to let you know that I am with you on the disappointment - if it had been cheaper then it would have been worth it for three years without glasses, but at just under £2,000 I am not so sure now.  More...

I had epi-lasek at the Glasgow branch of Optimax on Tuesday, 11th April. My prescription was -2.25 L and -2.0 R beforehand. I went back for my check up on Saturday and I am now 20:20. I am really delighted with the results and the quality of my vision. I had some fairly severe pain for the first day once the anaesthetic wore off, but I was fine from the following day. I would recommend that you have someone there to help you for the first couple of days with eye drops and that you purchase in advance a blackout eye mask, similar to the ones used on planes, as your eyes are very sensitive to light initially. All in all, less than a week on I am delighted with the outcome and would recommen ...  More...

I had epi-lasek treatment at Bristol Optimax on Clare Street, a lady surgeon from South Africa who was very nice and friendly. Very reassuring. I would recommend her. Feedback for everyone out there to help you and your decision making/preparation: - Do your own research, and weigh up your own thoughts. It's very important to consider your personality type in terms of how you deal with change, and whether you're a worrier or if you're quite easy-going. The reason I say this is because there is a lot of pain and discomfort after the surgery anaesthetic wears off, and it's so easy to keep thinking, is this ok, should my eyes be feeling like this etc etc. Recommendation ...  More...

I had Lasik on 6th April and was clear visioned 4 hours after surgery. I had my check-up the next day and can read the bottom line of the chart with either eye or both together. This gives me 6/4 vision which is better than perfect (6/6 being the bench mark for perfect). Dr Esselaar was superb. Professional and friendly whilst putting me at ease during the operation. GET IT DONE!  More...

I had epi-lasek done on the 31st of March in Peterborough and although the operation went fine (so painful once it was over though!!) I still can't see an improvement in my eyesight and it's now the 7th of April (an earlier poster wanting to know if this was normal) I've been told by Optimax (mind you, NOT the doctor, only the optimax helpine team) that it taking this long IS NOT normal. I should have had my eyesight back by now and it should have been "perfect" had the operation worked so they're bascially telling me that it didn't. I'm gutted about the fact that I've spent a grand on something that obviously did me no good what so ever. I will know for sure once ...  More...

I had Wavefront lasik yesterday! 30.03.06 at Bristol, been for one day after checkup this morning and they told me that I have 20/20!, the procedure was pain free, they are consumate professionals and do everything to put you at ease whilst you are in the chair, you are in and out in 20 mins, I would recommend this to anyone, I was -5.75 in both eyes and was finding lenses and glasses a real burden, this is money well spent. Dr Macgraw was my surgeon and she is great, really nice, I have read lots of reviews and was dreading the op as some people have had uncomfortable experiences, I have had no pain during and after the op, I suppose I have been lucky! so pleased I have had it done and it w ...  More...

HAD EPI-LASEK, WITH DR PATEL, AT FINCHLEY,I AM 56, WORN GLASSES FOR 40 YEARS,AM LONDON TAXI DRIVER,NOW HAVE PERFECT VISION,I MEAN PERFECT!! BEEN 12 WEEKS NOW,PERFECT AFTER ABOUT 1 WEEK & GETTING BETTER,HAD BAD PAIN WHICH I WAS WARNED ABOUT FOR TWO DAYS,BUT BOY WAS IT WORTH IT!! THE COLOURS IN THE WORLD LOOK TOTALY SUPERB! I AM ABSOLUTLY GOBSMACKED!!! NO MORE DENTS IN MY NOSE AFTER DRIVING FOR 14 HOURS!ALSO I CAN BUY ROUNDED DESIGNER SUNGLASSES,WOULD HIGHLY RECCOMEND,WELL DONE MR PATEL& OPTIMAX,THANK YOU THANK YOU........  More...

I had epi lasek on 11 Feb 06 in the Optimax Clinic in Glasgow. My surgeon was Dr Anwar who was excellent. I was quite apprehensive before the surgery but he put me at ease straight away. Six weeks later I am 20/20 in both eyes after being -5.25 in both eyes with +1 astigmatism in right eye. After wearing specs for over 20 years it is a dream come true!!  More...

Have just had a consultation at Liverpool and it was very thorough. I am -9.00 in both eyes, so very short sighted. Because I have that prescription I was told that I can have Epi-Lasek. This is normally only up to -6.00. But for my prescription it would be recommended to avoid doing a flap as my corneas could become too thin. However I could be left with a haze, has anyone expreienced this? I am also able to have a new form of Lasik called Intra Lase, where the laser cuts the flap so keeping it as thin as possible. However this is much more expensive, £300 per eye on top of normal Lasik charges. It does benefit from quick recovery though, but I would be left with a possible -0.75 pr ...  More...

I am considering having corneal implants as helpline does not think that laser treatment will correct my R -5.25 L -4.75 with astig. Has anyone else had this done or been given this advice? would be going to finchley branch for treatment and would love some feedback. Only really considering process for driving as number plates still blurry even though optician says i can see!  More...

Can someone just put my mind at rest PLEASE!! Had epi-lasek done last Tues (8 days ago) and my sight is still not great. Can watch TV from the sofa and that but went to a football match last night and could not pick out players faces at all. Am I just being impatient......???  More...