A private retina specialist consultation in London typically costs from around £200–£350 in 2026 and includes a consultant assessment, an OCT scan of the retina and a dilated examination of the back of the eye. It is the first step for symptoms such as distortion, a central blur, new floaters or flashing lights, and for monitoring conditions like macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Sudden floaters, flashes, or a dark curtain over your vision should be assessed the same day — call 0800 852 7782.
What a retina specialist is
A retina specialist (medical or vitreoretinal) is a GMC-registered consultant ophthalmologist who has completed extra fellowship training in diseases of the retina, macula and vitreous. The retina is the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye, with the macula at its centre giving you sharp central vision for reading and faces. Because problems here can permanently affect sight, they are best assessed and managed by a subspecialist rather than a general ophthalmologist. You can read more on our vitreoretinal surgery page and our guide to private VR surgery with a UK consultant.
What happens at the consultation
A typical retina appointment lasts 30–45 minutes and includes:
- History and vision check — your symptoms, general health and a measurement of your sight.
- OCT scan — a quick, non-contact scan that produces a cross-section of the retina and macula, showing fluid, swelling, membranes or holes in microscopic detail.
- Dilated examination — drops widen the pupil so the consultant can examine the whole retina, including the periphery, for tears or detachment.
- Diagnosis and plan — a clear explanation of what was found and the options, whether that is monitoring, injections, laser or surgery.
Dilating drops blur your vision for a few hours, so arrange not to drive yourself home. See what to expect at your consultation for more.
Conditions a retina specialist assesses
- Macular degeneration (AMD) — dry and wet forms; see macular degeneration. Wet AMD is treated with anti-VEGF injections.
- Retinal detachment and tears — an emergency; see retinal detachment.
- Macular hole and epiretinal membrane — often treated with macular hole vitrectomy.
- Diabetic retinopathy and macular oedema — screening, laser and injection therapy.
- Floaters and flashes — to rule out a tear; see when floaters need urgent review.
New distortion, a central blur, or sudden floaters and flashes? Get your retina checked this week.
Book a retina assessmentIndicative London consultation costs in 2026
As a self-pay guide, a private retina specialist consultation in London typically costs from around £200–£350, usually including the OCT scan and dilated examination. Further imaging (such as a fluorescein angiogram) or treatment is quoted separately. If surgery is needed, see indicative figures on our vitreoretinal surgery prices page and the full price list. Private medical insurance is widely accepted; with insurance you usually need a referral letter, whereas self-pay patients can book directly.
How to get a same-week appointment
Private care removes the wait. Phone our team, attend a consultant-led assessment with OCT, and receive a clear diagnosis and plan — often within the same week, and same-day or next-day for urgent symptoms. Our retinal consultants include Mr Vaughan Tanner and Mr Nish Srikantha, who see patients across our South England partner clinics with UK-wide guidance. Start with an appointment request or a free online consultation.