Private cataract surgery for Derby patients costs from around £2,900 per eye for a monofocal lens, £3,796 per eye for an EDOF lens and £4,300 per eye for a multifocal lens in 2026, all-inclusive. Toric lenses that correct astigmatism start from £3,400 per eye. Every price includes the consultation, biometry, the operation, theatre and hospital fees, your chosen intraocular lens, post-op drops and follow-up reviews — there are no hidden extras. Most patients are assessed within a week and treated within one to two weeks, with no NHS-style waiting list.
What cataract surgery costs in Derby
Derby patients can choose between NHS treatment and self-pay or insured private care across the East Midlands. Private pricing is set by the lens you choose rather than your postcode, so the figures below reflect typical 2026 all-inclusive pricing at partner clinics. The lens is the single biggest factor in both cost and visual outcome.
| Lens type | Price per eye (all-inclusive) | What it gives you |
|---|---|---|
| Monofocal IOL | From £2,900 | Excellent distance vision; reading glasses still needed |
| Toric (astigmatism) | From £3,400 | Corrects astigmatism for sharper distance vision |
| EDOF IOL | From £3,796 | Distance + intermediate; reduced glasses reliance |
| Multifocal / trifocal IOL | From £4,300 | Near, intermediate & distance; greatest spectacle freedom |
If cloudy vision returns months or years after surgery, a quick YAG laser capsulotomy (from £550 single eye) usually restores clarity. For the full national breakdown see our cataract surgery cost guide.
Not sure which lens is right for you? A free online consultation gives you a clear recommendation and a fixed, all-inclusive quote — no obligation.
Book a free online consultationLens (IOL) options
Choosing the intraocular lens is the most important decision in cataract surgery. The lens is permanent and sets how well — and at what distances — you will see for the rest of your life. Your consultant recommends the best option for your eye anatomy and lifestyle.
Explore the choice in detail with our guides to EDOF lenses, trifocal lenses and toric lenses for astigmatism, or compare the families on our monofocal vs multifocal comparison.
What happens during cataract surgery
Cataract surgery is performed under local anaesthetic eye drops. You stay awake but feel no pain — only mild pressure and light. The procedure takes 15 to 25 minutes per eye, and you will be at the clinic for around 2 to 3 hours including checks and rest.
- Numbing drops are placed in your eye and the surrounding skin is cleaned.
- The surgeon makes a tiny 2.2–2.8mm incision that seals itself without stitches.
- Phacoemulsification uses a fine ultrasound probe to break up and remove the cloudy lens.
- Your chosen intraocular lens is folded, inserted and locked into place.
- The eye is shielded and you rest before going home the same day.
Recovery week-by-week
Most patients notice clearer vision within hours, with full healing over about a month.
Day of surgery
Vision hazy for a few hours; eye shield worn overnight. No driving or heavy lifting. Drops begin.
Days 1–3
Vision clears noticeably. Mild grittiness or watering is normal. Gentle activities resume.
Week 1
First review. Most patients are back to driving and working; no swimming or eye rubbing yet.
Weeks 2–4
Vision refines further; drops continue. New glasses prescription (if needed) at 4–6 weeks.
NHS vs private cataract surgery for Derby patients
The NHS covers cataract surgery with a monofocal lens, but waiting times in the East Midlands can run from several months to over a year in some areas, and premium lenses are not offered. Going private brings faster access, a choice of lens and continuity of consultant care.
- Self-pay: from £2,900 per eye (monofocal); £3,796 EDOF; £4,300 multifocal — all-inclusive.
- Insurance: recognised by Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, Cigna and WPA — we handle authorisation. See insured patients.
- Finance: 0% options available — see finance and 0% cataract finance.
- Second eye: if both eyes need treatment, see second-eye cataract surgery costs.
For a realistic sense of timing, read how long the NHS cataract waiting list is in 2026 and how quickly you can get private cataract surgery.