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
Mrs Tracy Barton
Just another quick update, went for my 1 week check up yesterday, and have been told that i have 20/20 vision. I was absolutely thrilled. He showed me what i could see before without glasses, and i couldn't believe how big the letter were!! So glad i had this treatment done, worth every penny.
Vertrice Baillie
I had surgery on Monday 25th March 2002.I had PRK on both eyes and can honestly say I never experienced the pain that most people associate with PRK. The Eye Clinic were professional and I would recommend them. I initially wanted LASIK,however, due to corneal scarring (from misuse of contact lenses!......yes, I used to sleep in them!)the surgeon recommended PRK,my reaction....ouch!!!!
I did my research and really expected the pain to kick in after surgery.......it never did! Heavy eyelids and the desire to keep my eyes closed post op. were my symptons. My surgeon was the excellent Chief surgeon, Clive Mortimer,Clive answered all my questions and talked me through the whole process, I cannot praise this man enough!!!!!! The procedure was 20seconds to remove the epithelium another 20 seconds to re-shape the cornea, each eye 40 seconds,voila!! After surgery, I could see a difference straight away, which I had not anticipated with PRK. Day 2, my eyes were light sensitive, but never painful,probably at the most, the feeling you get when peeling onions!
Day 3, another check up at the eye clinic (with PRK you have surgery,a check-up on day 2 and day 3 my "patch contact lens" was removed by Clive. Whereby he told me I was healing nicely. Day 4, I was driving, yes I should have waited a week, but what for? I could see perfectly!!!!!! Day 5 night time driving......slight "starbursts/halos" around car lights,but nothing to impair my vision. I am so happy and still feel like I am wearing contact lenses.....I cannot believe no glasses, after wearing them for over 20 years. Lastly all the staff I encountered at Shaftesbury Ave were excellent and very patient!!!!! And they offer interest free payments...why go anywhere else?!!!
Hilary Martin
I'm booked in to have PRK on one eye only as I have quite a low prescription- bit anxious about it as can't believe it will work (was walking round with one contact lense in at the weekend and that made my brain ache). Has anyone else had this done on one eye only - how long did it take to get used to it??
Richard Dance
Maxivision charge £30 for a consultation, refundable if you have surgery with them
D BERRY
I had bilateral PRK at Milton Keynes eight weeks ago now. My prescription was such, that I was advised that the outcome would be no different whether I had LASIK or PRK. I opted for the cheaper option, PRK, and the end result has been excellent. My eyesight is currently better than 20/20 and expected to be about 6/4 when I go for my 3 month check up. The only thing I will say is that PRK did not agree with me. Within an hour of the treatment I was in agony. It stayed like that for a couple of days and the pain killers given to me did not help very much. If you can afford it choose LASIK. That said, the aftercare treatment was very good and I am chuffed to bits with the final result.
Nicki
I had LASIK with Maxivision on tuesday 30th April and I don't know what on earth I was worried about! The staff are fantastic and professional and totally put you at ease. No pain at all, and when they asked me would I like to proceed with my left eye I couldn't believe they had already finished my right eye. It only takes minutes with the lasering itself taking seconds. After about 1 - 2 hours I could see road signs etc very clearly and just felt like I had a little bit of sand in my eye. My prescription was - 2.50 and - 3.0 with a little bit of astigmatism. I was driving the same night and so far, touch wood, I have had no grittiness, blurriness but just perfect sight!!! Thank you Maxivision. My only regret is that I didn't have done sooner. I have just cancelled my standing order with my opticians for contact lenses and have just treated myself to a nice pair of designer sunglasses (POSER!!). I would just like to say if anyone is thinking about it, JUST DO IT! It is worth every penny. If you have any questions, please feel free to e:mail me.
Mr Smith
AMAZING SERVICE
AMAZING PRICE
AMAZING RESULTS
AMAZE YOURSELF!!!!
The quality of equipment (VISX S3)backed up with levels of service I have never encountered is just sooooo refreshing.
24 hours after the op I can see 20/20. The staff were polite and friendly, but very honest about the whole procedure - I was never put under any pressure or made to feel part of a conveyor belt.
Paying over 24 months Interest free is the icing on the cake.
Respect to Shilpa and Lisa at Reading for seing the best - thank you.
HAVE IT DONE
Diane Surtees
Went for consultation yesterday and having it done on 29th May. The Eye Clinic was excellent my husband couldn't believe the time they spent with me. Here's looking forward to seeing unaided.
Stephen Hurry
had my eyes treated 412 my prescription was -5.25 and -5.75 pleased with results but on my 3 month check optician said there was still a dryness problem and to still occasionally use eyedrops otherwise pleased with my results and would recomend maxivision to anyone considering LASIK.
Kate Foster
It has now been a day and a half since my treatment and having had my follow up now have '20/20' vision or whatever the EU now call it!
I was increadably anxious prior to the treatment and must say it wasnt without pain but without a doubt the best £1700 I have ever spent. I had the op 5.30 Tuesday evening and yes I did find it painful. It lasted 15mins in total and by far the worst bit was when they put pressure on the eyeball when doing the cut of the cornea and then the actual laser treatment. It wasnt unbearable but dont be fooled by all the hype that its no worse going to the dentist - it is, by far. After the op I couldnt open my eyes for four hours not even for a split second & I was therefor begining to panic. They really stung - like when youve forgotten to neautralise the disinfectant on your lenses and this lasted the four hours. Eventually I fell asleep and when I awoke 45 mins later I could open my eyes momentarily and the stinging had reduced considerably. I did my drops, took my sleeping pill and went to bed. When I awoke the next morning I had vertually no pain and could see well enough to drive. Later that day I had my follow up consultation and I could read the bottom of the chart! It is now Thursday and I can honestly say apart from the fact I have red blotches on the whites of my eyes, no one would know I wasnt born with perfect site. No pain, swelling or soreness at all, I am absolultely delighted. Maxivision were very professional If you can get Mr Pillai I would strongly recommend him, he was freindly, approachable re any concerns and again v. proffessional.
I know I have gone on about the pain side of it but this is only because many of the other comments I have read have skirted over this and to me this was my major concern prior to the treatment. In summary, yes it was quite a painful and unpleasant four hours but that was it, four hours and since then no pain and most importanly no glasses or lenses! Well worth it as far as I am concerned!
Please feel free to email me if you have any questions...Kate
