1. Optimax Laser Eye Surgery Review
Optimax is a UK specialist in laser eye treatment, lens replacement surgery, and cataract surgery. Founded in 1991, this clinic has performed over 430,000 vision corrections. It currently has 28 clinics nationwide, including London, Bristol, Birmingham and Belfast.
Here is how nearly 1,000 real customers rate Optimax for its clinic, cost, treatments and surgeons:
| Optimax Rating Overall | Clinic Rating | Cost Rating | Surgeon Rating | Treatments Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| (3.9 out of 5) | (3.6 out of 5) | (3.5 out of 5) | (5 out of 5) | (4.1 out of 5) |
These ratings boil down to:
Pros: Fixed prices, free consultation, Wavefront technology, locations nationwide, NHS-trained surgeons
Cons: Poor customer service, lacking communication from surgeons, frequent delays
☝ Compare clinics: See if there are any other top-rated clinics near you, and use our simple tool to receive a personalised quote – as well as free eye tests worth £800!
2. Optimax Laser Eye Surgery Cost
“I would do this surgery again tomorrow knowing the results I have got. It was worth every penny – the best money I ever spent.” – Stephen Gerrard
(3.5 out of 5)
Laser eye surgery at Optimax costs £1,695 (per eye) for Wavefront LASEK or Wavefront IntraLase LASIK. Cataract surgery costs £2,995 (per eye), while implantable contact lenses will set you back £2,495 (per eye).
These are average prices for eye surgery in the UK – not as cheap as other high street clinics like Optical Express, but less expensive than eye hospitals like Moorfields Private.
Are there any hidden costs? No – Optimax offers free consultations, and transparent prices. Plus, there are finance options, meaning you can pay under £50 for 36 months for laser surgery, or under £70 a month for lens surgery.
Here are the prices of some of Optimax’ popular lens and laser surgery options:
| Eye Surgery Procedure | Price (per eye) | Finance Options (per month) |
|---|---|---|
| Wavefront LASEK | £1,695 | £42.38 (36 months, 0% APR, £169.50 deposit) |
| Wavefront IntraLase LASIK | £1,695 | £42.38 (36 months, 0% APR, £169.50 deposit) |
| Cataract / RLE / CLE Treatment | £2,995 | £64.40 (36 months, 0% APR, £299.50 deposit) |
| ICL Treatment | £2,495 | £51.49 (36 months, 0% APR, £249.50 deposit) |
☛ 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 for free.
3. Optimax Treatments
“I am delighted that the procedure was pain-free, and I didn’t even need any painkillers afterwards. At the weekly check-up, I was amazed to learn I had 20/20 vision – much better than predicted.” – Joan Hassell
(4.1 out of 5)
As well as traditional laser eye surgery, Optimax also offers a range of lens surgery options. Here is the full list:
- LASIK
- LASEK
- Wavefront / IntraLase®Femtosecond
- Cataract or refractive lens exchange (RLE) surgery
- ICL surgery or keratoconus treatment
Aftercare
Optimax provides a free and comprehensive aftercare program to regularly check and monitor your vision at each stage of the recovery process. All aftercare costs are included in the cost of your eye surgery.
Optimax locations
Optimax offers a range of clinics nationwide. It also hosts open days, where patients are able to have a free assessment, take a tour of the clinic, and speak to specialist consultants. Optimax’s main locations are: London, Bristol, Birmingham, Cardiff, Belfast, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, and Manchester.
4. The Verdict
I am really happy with the results. Apart from the machine not working and the long wait, the staff at this Optimax were really nice, friendly and helpful, as was Dr Patel. I would recommend this Optimax. – Tina Gibson
(3.9 out of 5)
Optimax has an average overall rating due to hit-and-miss patient care, based on nearly 9,000 independent reviews on Lasik Eyes since 2002.
Most patients we spoke to were happy with the service. However, the long waiting times and poor communication mean this clinic misses the top spots on the list of the best laser eye surgery clinics in the UK. Still, Optimax makes it into these top lists:
But is Optimax 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 closer to going glasses free:
- Find the top clinic in seconds: Answer three questions to be matched to 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 and personalised quote (with no obligation)
☛ Click here to find the best clinic near you, and get a tailored quote.
5. Optimax Surgeon Reviews
6. Optimax Patient Reviews
Julia Dawkins
lens replacement went well. Following that I needed remediation treatment on one eye – lazer treatment. I was asked back a total of 8 times to review my eyes but was not explained anything about what or why I should have dry eyes. treat ment for that was hardly explained and I returned many ties without any further treatment scheduled, nor with any explanation of how they would proceed. after a year almost to the day I was given lazer remediation treatment. On the day all the proper tests were carried out before the treatment. However I overheard that my data had crashed to computer which instructed the lazer what to do. Finally after 3 and a half hours someone came to me and said they had solved their”little ” problem and work would now commence. I was really scared by the time I sat in the chair for my eye to be lazered (!) and had to say to the doctor that I just had to trust his expertise that he would not proceed if anything was wrong.
Terrible after care service and lack of information. I wrote complaining to them on March1st (I think) and still have had only an acknowledgement, but no reply to my complaiint. Outrageous! Would not reccommend to anyone.
jane barnes
Had Lasek treatment at new Southampton clinic on 5th September. Both eyes were -3.00 and had slight astigmatism. Staff helpful and on all appointments i was seen on time. Treated by Alex Theodoris who was very reassuring and put me at ease by talking through each step of the procedure. Couldn't believe how quick it all was, about 35 seconds of laser in each eye. I moved my second eye slightly and the laser stopped and was started again but this was not a problem. one eye was fully bandaged (no bandage contacts were used) and the other had a plastic shield on for some visability. given sleeping tablets, pain killers, eye drops and sent home. I had made my following aftercare appointment before the treatment and this was a good idea because afterwards i couldn't see clearly and probably would of forgot anyway. Drive home (not by me!!!!!) was about 45 minutes and after about 30 minutes eyes started to ache and water a lot. got straight into bed and rested. Husband had to give medication as i could not read all the instructions (although they had explained all at the clinic i didn't remember the times) just wanted to take sleeping tablet as the pain was bad and i hoped it wouldn't last up to 4 days i have heard about. Next day rested but still couldnt see much, very light sensitive but not in pain. Scary point came on Sunday morning when my four year old daughter came home after being shipped of to nannas for two nights. lying in bed next to me she stretched out and accidently punched me straight in the left eye! my automatic scream sent her screaming as well! however it was fine and no pain just a bit sore. By Sunday evening watching telly as i was so bored by not being able to drive or read. It was a bit blurry but a lot clearer than it used to be without my glasses or contacts. I found that when I wanted to rest my eyes the best thing I found was a soft eye mask I had from an airline care kit, it was so handy for a couple of days especially went lying down. I think optimax could really minimize discomfort by providing something like this. On Monday afternoon Optimax phoned up to check how I was getting on, and it was one of the girls that had been in the treatment room which i thought was good aftercare. Each day vision gets clearer and clearer didnt need anymore pain killers than those given to me by clinic but may be a good idea to have some handy just incase because you are only given a couple of days worth. Felt fine to drive but waited just in case for my first check up which was a week later on Friday 12th. Saw Mr Theodoris for aftercare which i was pleased about because sometimes it is not with the person who did the treatment. Vision up to driving standard and was told that over next two weeks will have 20/20 what a great result. Have to go back in two months time and will give results then. Compared to what other clinics are charging i am so glad that i chose optimax. I hope my account puts people at ease because i am the worst when it comes to pain and nearly talked myself out of it a hundred times. I am so glad I didn't.
Guy Marshall
I had my initial consultation at the Manchester branch yesterday. As mentioned in several posts on here the administration wasn't great, but I think it's the quality of the advice/surgery that is most important. I couldn't help thinking that this would be a great place for a Dom Jolly skit - The waiting rooms have a number of adjoining rooms and I can imagine the reaction if screaming was heard from one of the rooms. I've got to say I was quite impressed with the surgeon I saw. My pupils are smaller than average and my corneal skin is thicker than average so I was approved for Lasik treatment. My prescription is -4.5 in both eyes and hasn't changed for several years. I've wore contact lenses for 20 years. I'm due to have the operation on 2nd October and I'll post again when I feel fit.
Graham
I am considering the 2 for 1 option at Southampton. Are the company going bust as this is much less than half price of anywhere else? or is it done by trainee staff (remember the dodgy haircuts from my local hairdressing college, eeks). If anyone has experience of the Soton branch, please drop me a message to let me know how you got on. I am -6.25 right, -5.25 left and hate contact lenses that give me a lot of discomfort.
JASON CRANE
Had Lasek at the Belfast Clinic on both eyes on 02.09.03. Everything I was told was true, ie no pain etc etc however it was quite wierd as you could obviously SEE what was going on. Bandage contact lenses were a bit of a nightmare as I had tried contact lenses about 8 years ago and they did not work for me. Had a consultation on 05.09.03 and bandages not ready to come off. Thankfully off on 09.09.03 and I feel fantastic. Quality of vision comes and goes but I am confident that it will settle in the 2-4 weeks. Staff were efficient and the coffee is good. Go on let Tracey sort you out!
Kelly
Hi, I've booked in for LASIK treatment on the 2nd October with Dr Madhusudhan, please can you contact me with feedback if you have had treatment with this dR. Just need some reassurance. Thanks Kelly
Franco
Is anyone in London willing to go halves with me on a 2-for-1? Please email me if interested. Thanks.
Jackie
Reply to Michelle posting 8/9/03- if you are still unhappy with your vision please visit londonvisionclinic.com and view--- especially patient testimonials. I have not yet had eye surgery but my research has favoured this clinic. I hope everything works out for you-keep me posted via lasik-eyes website.
michelle
had both eyes donr in birmingham augubt 18th felt very rushed had no quality time spent with me just like a cattle market in out in out had treatment done came back next day had check up doctor said how are ya told him they were very blurred which i thought was my healing process he says thats to be expected then came out with come back in two weeks make an appintment with the girls on the desk was in there all but 5 mins felt like i wasnt listened to at all went to make an appointment couldnt have it on such a day because the doctor who i saw on the day of my lazer was going back to africa as he was only over for a week. its coming up to a month nearley went back last week for another check up saw a lovley asian guy before i even opened my mouth he said i dont know how your seeing he also said i bet its like your looking threw frosted glass and this doctor had just took the words out of mouth it was like looking threw frosted glass with a struggle finding it hard to focus what he also said to me was that there was still a lot of long sightedness there does any body now what can be done to get these eyes right as i am starting to panic in a big way as the days go on my vision is going down and down. so if there is any body that can help or give me some good advice please contact me thank you,
Debbie
Just an update on my 10 day check up. I have 20/20 vision in my right eye, but it seems I was "under lasered" in my left eye so it is still short sighted (forgot to ask by how much). That said, my vision is line 6 (just over driving standard) which I'm quite happy with even if it stays that way. May actually be the reason why I'm not in any way longsighted which I was told to expect. My corneas have both healed very well. I have to go back in 3 weeks time to see if my left eye improves and I may need steroids (not sure what they do - must ask). I'll see what happens in 3 weeks.
Andrea Gibbon
As I stated previously I had one eye done 1st Sept prescription -4.00. Im not in pain anymore just my eye tires easily and Im still sensitive to light I feel like a film star wearing sunglasses in the house, but my vision is still very hazy to be honest Im starting to get a bit worried now, but I know I have to be patient. I was supposed to start work today but my Doctor has given me a weeks sick note - I will be bored silly ha ha but seriously Im pleased I didnt get both eyes done same time. Maybe some people heal quicker than me, I STILL DONT HAVE ANY REGRETS just no patience!
