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.
Diane H
Had Lasek treatment on both eyes special offer 790) on the 21st Feb, at the Birmingham clinic by Dr Anand. Found all the staff very friendly & answered all the questions I asked (which wasn't many because got all my answers off here). My prescription was L2.00 R2.79, large pupils (which have more risky in night halos ect, but Dr put my mind at rest. Had the op earlier than expected as one patient didn't turn up. Op went with no problem, felt absolutely nothing, though was uncomfortable with pressure on my eye at one time. seemed to take quite a while in loosening & pushing the epithelium to one side, but as I couldn't feel it, I was ok. When he actually lasered my eye, I just spelt something like burning hair now don't u lot go off burning your hair to see what it spelt like!) Replaced the epithelium, place contact bandages & proceeded to the other eye. I was in the treatment room for all of 30mins. Was told to expect pain for the first 36hrs & was given pain killers ,sleeping tablets & drops for my eyes. I took 2 painkilling tablets before I left clinic & hand on heart I never had one bit of pain, not even an ache. The only discomfort I had is that I couldn't open my eyes for at least 36hrs & had to gently prize them open to get the drops in & to let the tears pour out. Its now Sunday night & can open eyes fine, watch a bit of telly though still a bit fuzzy & as u can see I can come on here & type, though forgive any typing errors because I cant see THAT good. Will be having the lens remove Monday, shall up date then. So far I'm really pleased with the treatment, fingers crossed that things will just get better & better.
Diane H
Had my bandage lens out today, eyes felt a bit gritty for about an hr after. Left eye was still blurry this morning, but now 9.30pm much better, almost as good as the right, not perfect but almost there. My first aftercare appointment is next week, shall let you know the full outcome then. Still very happy with Optimax.
Jackie
I had Lasek on 20.02.03 (Thursday) at Finchley Road by Dr. Ayoubi. I think waiting in the waiting room is the worst thing cos your thinking do i really want this done ? and loads and loads of what ifs go through your mind. Dr. Ayoubi spoke through all the things that could go wrong and was very helpful. The laser treatment did not hurt whatsoever and I am really wimpy. Dr Ayoubi talked through the whole thing and put me at ease. I walked out with one large bandage on one eye and one clear eye shield on the other. My husband said I was getting weird looks. All I could see was about a metre in front of me everything else was a blur. The pain killers (six tablets) however, for me, were not enough I had to ring my local doctor on Friday and ask for more, by Sunday the pain had eased a lot and by Monday I had nothing and could see loads. I kept feeling dizzy and felt faint a few times, but now I feel fine. My eyes sting a bit now and then and I cant see close up clearly yet but its only been a week and each day my close up vision gets more clearer.
Andy Spooner
I had bi-lateral LASIK performed on Thursday 27th February, by Dr Manek Patel at the Finchley Road, London branch. My prescription was -6.75 in my left eye and -8.25 in my right, and I had some astigmatism too. I am 35 years of age. My appointment was scheduled for 11am, I arrived in plenty of time, and was seen slightly early. The whole procedure took less than 20 mins, including the lasering itself, which took about 1 minute per eye. The surgery itself was completely painless, just some mild discomfort whilst my eyes were clamped open one by one, but I can live with that.I also found Dr Patel to be completely reassuring, informing me what was happening at all stages during the surgery. After surgery, I was given 2 paracetamols and was led to a waiting room, and 20 mins later I was seen by an optometrist to check my eyes, and inform me of how and when to take the 3 different types of drops you have to take. By midday I was in the car on my way home. At this stage I could already start to see things (motorway signs etc) - I was developing a headache at this time. Stopped to get some Solpadeine, which I took during the afternoon. As hour by hour unfolded, I could see my vision improving rapidly, which was a joy in itself. By 6pm any pain had completely gone, and I was happily watching tv - my eyes were only light-sensitive for about 4-5 hrs in total. I had my check up on Friday, and was told I have better than 20-20 vision (could read the line one up from the bottom). This is the best money I ever could have spent on myself, and I feel fortunate that with a high prescription, I now find myself with perfect sight. If anyone needs any more information from me, please dont hesitate to email me.
Avril
I had my Lasik treatment 28 February at the Birmingham Clinic, my Surgeon was John Hill, he explained every detail of the procedure, I was very reassured. He gave me an explanation about my two main concerns, 'dry eyes' and 'night vision. He explained to me that the dry eyes normally only effects patients who already have dry eyes, and the 'night vision' problem normally only effects patients with large pupils, 8mm and over, he measured mine at 5mm. I felt no pain during or after the surgery I could see straight away although my vision was blurred, the following morning my vision felt almost perfect. I returned to the clinic for the aftecare appointment the following day, I was told that my eyes were healing nicely and I had 20/20 vision. I have not experienced any pain at all and am glad that I went ahead with the treatment after all the bad publicity I had read in the press. I can recommend the lasik procedure, Optimax and John Hill, the surgeon. Thanks to the other patients who responded to my request for their experiences and information.
Lisa
I too had lasik treatment at Birmingham by John Hill on 27 Feb 2003, as did my brother. My prescription was -6.00 and -7.00 and my brother was around -10. We both felt totally reassured by the confidence of John Hill and went ahead with the treatment. It went brilliantly and neither of us experienced any pain. I was reading number plates on the way back to our hotel just 30 mins after treatment. We are both amazed by the results-my brother was out playing in his band on 29 Feb which is quite remarkable. I just keep thinking I have my contact lenses in because it just doesn't seem possible that I can see unaided. Feel free to contact me if I can be of help to anyone that is considering treatment. p.s. Glad your treatment went well, Avril!
Diane H
Went for my 10 day check up & the vision in my right eye is perfect, my left eye is slightly short-sighted & was told there is still time for improvement, tho if it doesnt im still perfectly happy with the results, its just mildly irritating at the moment, because im not use to the `slight difference, im sure in a few mths time when I come accustomed to it, it wont bother me at all.
Kate
Went back for my 3 month post op check up last Saturday (after having LASIK with Dr Patel, Finchley Rd) and they were happy to 'discharge' me as everything is perfect with my eyes. My right eye is 20/20 and my left is very slightly short sighted- this will help when I'm older and need reading glasses, BUT I think my vision is FANTASTIC, as I was approx -9 in both eyes and now can see better than when I wore contact lenses. It's the best thing I ever did. For those who still have blurry vision a week after the op- I had that for about a month afterwards and when my eyes got dry they were very blurry but now they have settled down. Up until last week I still had to use artificial tears 3 or 4 times a day but just like magic this week I have hardly used them at all. I still have slight halos around lights at night but it's not enough to bother me and I have adjusted quite well to it- anything is better than having to wear contacts and glasses especially if you've worn them since the age of 6 and after 20 years you get the freedom, I just cannot wait to swim in the sea (I used to wear my contacts in the sea and never put my head under water)- have to wait a year as I am still paying off the £1000 to have it done!!!!! I have asked if I can go for a check up in 6 months just to get the final all clear a year after the op, anyone who wants to contact me please do, I'm happy to share my experience.
Kristy Parker
I finally had lasik treatment on monday at finchley road, with Dr Almasri. Dr Almasri was very nice and kept me calm during it all, as i was very nervous. My vision now is amazing, better than with my glasses. Things still look a bit odd indoors with lots of artificial lights but as its not even been a week yet i'm not worried. I did find my aftercare appointment very quick but as I didn't have any questions and there were no problems there wasn't really much more they could do. So it was straight in and out. I just can't stop smiling!
Karen Solley
I had lasek (epiflap) in both eyes at the Optimax Glasgow Clinic on 8th March 03 very painless only 47 seconds each eye, when I got outside to go back to the car my eyes and nose were streaming as if I had just caught a cold, took the 2 sleeping tablets on the saturday night and 2 painkillers and slept great, was fine on the sunday just kept taking the painkillers, on the sunday afternoon I took the patches off my eyes and put the ointment on could still not open my eyes, but by the monday morning I could open them up a little, but I did not need any painkillers on the monday, on the tuesday I could open them fully but the lids were a little swollen, wednesday the swelling went down and I was sitting watching the TV very clearly, it is now 17 days since I had my eyes done and I can see really clearly, I am going back for my aftercare appointment tomorrow and I will find out what my prescription is. I am really happy with my treatment and it was worth every penny I would recommend Optimax at Glasgow as very good I wish I had'nt waited so long before getting them done I had been thinking about it for 3 years. my prescription was -2.00 in both eyes maybe this is why I have great results in such a short time. If anyone would like to e-mail me if they are thinking about having their eyes done I would be happy to reply