Optical Express has grown to become one of Europe’s leading providers of laser eye surgery. It operates over 200 clinics, of which 100 are specifically designated laser consultation clinics and 54 are laser treatment clinics.
With locations throughout the UK, Holland, Germany, Ireland, France and Croatia, Optical Express has carried out over one million laser eye surgery procedures worldwide. What’s more, over 99% of patients would recommend Optical Express to their friends and family.
Pros: Value for money, caring surgeons, 128 UK clinics, latest technology, dedicated aftercare
Cons: No fixed prices (talk to them for a quote)
☝ Compare clinics: See if there are any other top-rated clinics near you, and use our simple tool to receive a personalised quote.
- Optical Express Laser Eye Surgery Review
- Prices
- Treatments
- The Verdict
- Surgeon Reviews
- 1,806 Patient Reviews
1. Optical Express Laser Eye Surgery Review
I’m very happy with my laser treatment. There’s nothing to worry about – there’s no pain, and I would recommend it to anybody. The aftercare at Optical Express is also very good. I just wish i had done it years ago. – Philip Lavelle
Optical Express uses world leading technology, and their laser platform – the VISX S4IR – delivers safe, accurate and precise results. Fun fact: Optical Express is the only vision correction provider to invest in the iFS150 intraLASE in each of its clinics – the same technology that led to NASA backing laser eye surgery for astronauts in 2007.
Over 99% of Optical Express patients achieved 20/20 vision or better following treatment, according to a study carried out in June 2017.
With over 25 years’ experience in eye care, Optical Express boasts excellent surgical outcomes, and has invested £400 million in technology to offer advanced methods for vision correction.
Optical Express has 128 clinics in the UK alone – far more than any other eye surgery provider. Its locations include London, Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dublin, with many more situated in all corners of the country.
Here is how nearly 2,000 real customers rate Optical Express for its clinic, cost, treatments and surgeons:
Optical Express Rating Overall | Clinic Rating | Cost Rating | Surgeon Rating | Treatments Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
(4.6 out of 5) | (4.5 out of 5) | (4.8 out of 5) | (4.5 out of 5) | (4.7 out of 5) |
CQC Rating: Good
- Treating people with respect and involving them in their care
- Providing care, treatment and support that meets people’s needs
- Caring for people’s safely and protecting them from harm
- Staffing
- Quality and suitability of management
2. Optical Express Laser Eye Surgery Cost
True, it was an expensive operation, but I spent £500 a year on contact lenses and optician appointments – I see it as an investment! – Dave Reyner
(4.8 out of 5)
Laser eye surgery at Optical Express costs from just £595, or from £1,995 for lens replacement surgery. Of course, these prices depend on the treatment you choose, as well as your prescription, so you’ll want to pop in for a free consultation to get a tailored quote.
Optical Express is one of the cheapest laser eye surgery clinics in the UK. Its prices are well below average, compared to over 70 leading eye clinics and hospitals nationwide.
There are also a range of pay monthly finance options, so you can benefit from eye surgery for less than £50 a month – and it’s 0% finance for 10 month contracts.
Are there any hidden costs? No, the consultation is free, and you even get free eye tests worth £800. The only downside is not having fixed prices like at Optegra and Optimax, but at least the costs are lower at the end of the day.
Here are the prices of some of Optical Express’ popular lens and laser surgery options:
Eye Surgery Procedure | Price (per eye) | Finance Options (per month) |
---|---|---|
LASEK | From £595 | £49.50 (10 months on 0% APR, £100 deposit) |
LASIK | From £1,195 | £42.02 (for 18 months on 11.5% APR, £500 deposit) |
LASEK (with iDesign) | From £1,495 | £41.69 (for 24 months on 11.5% APR, £500 deposit) |
LASIK (with iDesign) | From £1,495 | £46.35 (for 24 months on 11.5% APR, £500 deposit) |
Monofocal lens surgery | From £1,995 | £48.89 (for 36 months on 11.5% APR, £500 deposit) |
Multifocal lens surgery | From £3,195 | £47.39 (for 72 months on 11.5% APR, £500 deposit) |
Phakic IOL | From £3,395 | £47.39 (for 72 months on 11.5% APR, £500 deposit) |
YAG | From £595 | N/A |
☛ Want a tailored quote? The only way to compare exact quotes is to see an eye expert for a check-up. These can cost up to £250, but with our simple tool, you can find out how much laser or lens surgery will cost you at Optical Express for free.
3. Laser Eye Surgery Treatments
Fantastic! I am so pleased I has the treatment – playing sports is so much easier! All the staff were very helpful, reassuring, and happy answering my questions. I’ll definitely be recommending Optical Express to everyone, their service is excellent! – Stephanie Yeadon
(4.7 out of 5)
Laser Eye Surgery
Laser eye surgery is a simple procedure that can correct your vision in a matter of minutes. Optical Express offers the most popular types: LASIK and LASEK (if you are not suitable for the surgical LASIK).
In both treatments, a cool beam advanced laser reshapes the cornea (the surface of your eye). Optical Express uses a technology called iDesign, which is based on Wavefront technology and takes thousands of eye measurements to produce the best results.
Lens Replacement
Optical Express has 20 years’ experience in lens replacement surgery. This surgery is a popular treatment for people with long distance vision, short distance vision, and even cataracts.
An eye consultant can help you decide which surgery best suits your needs:
- Refractive lens exchange (RLE) – This surgery replaces the natural lens with a synthetic intraocular lens (IOL) implant.
- Phakic IOL – This type of IOL is an alternative to laser eye surgery for patients with strong prescriptions.
- YAG laser treatment – YAG laser capsulotomy is a non-invasive procedure used to treat refractive former lens exchange patients whose vision starts to fade over the years.
Cataract Surgery
Optical Express performs the highest number of cataract surgeries – after the NHS, according to its website.
Cataracts are small, blurry patches on your eyes, giving you cloudy vision. Cataract surgery involves removing your damaged lens, and replacing it with a premium synthetic one for sharper near and distance vision.
Aftercare
Optical Express custom-fits its aftercare plan to every patient. This plan includes any medication that will aid the healing process, optometrist-led follow-up appointments, and an out-of-hours medical helpline.
Patients receive 12 months’ continued care as standard, and Optical Express recommends annual examinations to maintain your eye health.
Safety Record
All surgical procedures carry a degree of risk. However, laser eye surgery has an impressive success rate, and is the most popular elective surgery in the world.
99.2% of patients achieved at least 20|20 vision following surgery at Optical Express, based on a study of 190,231 Optical Express patients with the most common prescriptions. That’s why this eye clinic promises 20|20 vision or your money back.
Just be aware that the risks increase the more complicated the surgery. Optical Express will provide a screening service to check whether you are suitable for surgical treatment.
4. The Verdict
I can highly recommend Optical Express. They are very professional, and the procedure was pain free. The best thing now is I can see very well without glasses – and it was only done 3 weeks ago. – Elaine Gibson
(4.6 out of 5)
Optical Express is the best voted place for laser and lens replacement surgery, based on nearly 9,000 independent reviews on Lasik Eyes since 2002. With hard-to-beat prices, leading technology, and fully qualified surgeons, this clinic tops the list of best laser eye surgery clinics in the UK, as well as taking the crown for:
- Best eye surgery in London
- Best eye surgery in Scotland
- Best eye surgery in Manchester
- Best eye surgery in Bristol
But is it right for you? The only way to find out is to see if you’re eligible for 20/20 vision or your money back, and to get a tailored quote. That’s why we make it easy to pop in for a free consultation, have free eye tests (worth £800), and talk through your options with an eye expert.
Next steps: Our simple tool helps thousands of readers a day get one step closer to 20/20 sight:
- Find the top clinic in seconds: Answer three questions to be matched with the leading eye clinic in your area
- Check you’re eligible in minutes: Receive a quick call to check you can get surgery (we don’t share your number with anyone else)
- Book a free consultation: Talk to an expert at a clinic you can trust for a free eye test (worth £800) and personalised quote (with no obligation)
☛ Click here to find the best clinic near you, and receive a tailored quote.
5. Optical Express Surgeons

Mr Mehul Damani
MBBS, MS, DOMS, DNB, FRCS

Mr Luca Antico
MD

Mr Manek Patel
MD, RCOph

Mr Dimitri Kazakos
MD, MRCOphth

Dr Mohammed Shabbar Kazmi
MBBS, FRCS(Opth)

Mr Jonathan Carr
MD MA(Cantab) FRCOphth

Doctor Jan Venter
MD

Mr Khalid Khan
MBBS FRCS FRCOphth

Mr Jacobus Pauw
MBChB MMedOphth FCSOphth

Mr Sanjay Mantry
FRCOphth FRCS FRCS

Mr Andre Oberholster
MBChb MMedOphth

Mr Stefan Klopper
MBChB FCS

Mr Waseem Aziz
MB ChB FRCS

Mr Alex George
FRCOphth, FRCS MS, DOMS, DNB
6. Optical Express Reviews
Andy
Its now 48 hours since I had my treatment and apart from some grittiness (which is relieved with the lubricant drops) and still some sensitivity to light, I feel fine. My prescription - was –5.50 in both eyes, no astigmatism. Clinic – Optical Express, Bluewater. Surgeon – Stefan Klopper. I had LASIK Wavefront treatment. I was asked if I wanted Intralase instead of Microkeratome to create the flap. This was a surprise to me because everything I’d been told previously referred to the “mechanical” cutter. I had though read about the Intralase technique for cutting the flap on other websites and opted for it. The extra £600 was waived in my case as the surgeon said he preferred Intralase. It is a weird experience, but all over pretty quickly – you know what to expect when they do the 2nd eye so it’s easier to relax. Sunglasses are a MUST, I couldn’t keep my eyes open whilst be driven home. I would also recommend taking some painkillers along – maybe due to the pressure during the flap cut or even just nervous tension I had a sharp ache in my temples following the procedure, but Paracetomol cleared it up. At the post-op the day after surgery I could read the bottom line of the chart with my left eye and the middle with my right and was told I have better than 20/20 vision so I’m well pleased.
David Higgs
One month after surgery now and my eyesight is better than 20/20, its given me a new lease of life and more confidence too. Well worth the money. - Bournemouth Clinic
Claire Markham
I had Lasik Wavefront surgery 4 weeks ago at Bluewater and I still can't believe how great it is, Dr Wayne Crewe-Brown and his team were lovely they made me feel really calm throughout, I just wish I had been brave enough to do it sooner!
Sarah Reynolds
I had lasik wavefront on 16th November form Optical Express Manchester. The whole experience was excellent, all the staff were helpful and friendly. The service was efficient. I had excellent vision within 24 hours. I am delighted with the change this has made to my lifestyle already - it is great being able to see!! I am 57 years old and require mild reading glasses, but this is so much better than struggling with a variety of spectacles or varifocals that didnt suit and caused dizziness! I wish I had this done years ago!
Graham Nigel Harris
When I first thought about laser eye surgery I was very apprehensive but I researched Optical Express and eventually came for a consultation. My mind was put at rest during the initial interview and I took the plunge. I opted for the less invasive but initially more uncomfortable Lasek procedure. I was dreading the thought of having this done but gritted my teeth and went ahead. I was in the operating room for a total of fifteen minutes. The laser was used for around thirty seconds per eye and I did not feel a thing. The contact lens was installed in each eye as I had been instructed. What was I so worried about? I was informed about the aftercare procedures that needed to be followed and was then driven home. The discomfort started after about two hours but was not unbearable. It felt like I had a piece of grit in my eye but as I was tired I soon was asleep. With Lasek it is imperative that you rest your eyes for the full four days prior to having the contact lens removed. So bed rest was the order of the day. Luckily I had ensured I had a week off work. On the fourth day after my laser treatment I returned to Milton Keynes and the contact lens was removed. I thought the discomfort would end here. This was not the case. The discomfort for the next two hours was worse than any previous discomfort. However, it was still tolerable and after a few hours sleep all had settled down. I rested my eyes for a further two days as instructed and then – WOW – I could see very well without glasses for the first time in forty years. I went out in the car and could drive and read number plates without problem. One eye was slightly better than the other but it was absolutely brilliant. I went back for my two week check up and found that the pressures were slightly elevated in my eyes. The aftercare that ensued was second to none. It was thought that the drops I was using was causing a reaction and so new drops were prescribed and supplied and I returned daily for check ups for the next few days whilst they monitored my pressures. All was fine by the end of the week. My procedure was seven moths ago and my vision is similar in both eyes. Colour is vibrant and my vision is better than twenty-twenty. In fact I can now read the smallest line on the chart without straining. Would I recommend it and would I recommend Optical Express? Yes I would without reservation. I only wish I had had the courage and done it years ago. With my heartfelt thanks to all at Optical Express in Milton Keynes Graham Harris T.ENG MAAT
Mark Todd
Great all round.. after 3 weeks I dont use any eye drops and my eyesight is pretty well 40/20 in both eyes. The experience is now way near as bad as everyone says. The operation is done quickly , the only discomfort is the pressure on the eyeball which is not painful, just uncomfortable and only for a minute or two so DONT PANIC!! After the operation you can see straight away although the anti inflammatory drops make your eyesight a little milky and you are a little light sensitive. When the aenesthetic wars off I experienced grittiness in both eyes and although I lay in a dark room with my eyes closed and tried to slepp i found it too uncomfortable to drop off, however after a couple of hours I got bored and had some wine and some paracetamol with some dinner and very rapidly the grittiness disappeared! Couldnt sleep that night as I kept in peeing at the clock on my TV which got clearer and clearer throughtout the night and by dawn I could see perfectly! Great stuff...just be prepared for a bit of dry eye but using Blink drops keeps them good..! Good value for money and Mr Osama Giledi did a great job!
Shu Chen
It was the right decision i made. The surgery changed my life totally. Everything is different now thanks to Optical Express.
june williamson
Each day my eyesight improves,felt the solution painfull if only for a few seconds. I had lasik wavefront, well worth it! all staff thoughtfull and professional.
malsiri
After much deliberation, I decided to have lasik surgery done in the summer of 06. I can't believe the results, so amazing to ditch the specs after 16 years!Wish i'd done it years ago. I recommend it to everyone, go for it!Brilliant results. Birmingham branch.
Susan Greenbrooke
Hi,I had my laser surgery on the 9th and within 2 hours could see the TV clearly without glasses for the 1st time in 17 years!!!!.Vision was above driving standard at my post op check he next day and continues to improve.I had Lasik with Intralase.I was unable to have Wavefront as due to congenital opacities on the lens' of my eyes they could not get a clear picture.My surgeon, Mr Wayne Crewe Brown (Bluewater) explained that standard Laskik was just effective without a bad wavescan and i am really pleased with the results.My vision is still improving and due to the Intralase i am not suffering much dryness of the eyes.My experience At Bluewater was and continues to be a very positive one and although the surgery may seem expensive especially if you have a high prescription like myself (blind as a bat without glasses/lenses) in the long run you save on expensive glasses and monthly payments on contact lenses.