Private iStent infinite MIGS glaucoma surgery costs from £3,950 per eye in the UK in 2026 as a standalone day-case procedure, including the consultant surgeon, theatre, the three-stent device, post-op drops and follow-up. When the same device is implanted at the time of private cataract surgery, the MIGS element is typically added from £2,400 on top of the cataract price. The iStent infinite is unique among trabecular MIGS devices in being designed to be used on its own, for patients whose glaucoma needs lowering pressure but who do not need (or have already had) cataract surgery.
What is the iStent infinite?
The iStent infinite, made by Glaukos, is the latest generation of trabecular micro-bypass stent. A single preloaded injector places three heparin-coated titanium stents through the trabecular meshwork into Schlemm's canal — the eye's natural drainage channel. By creating multiple bypass openings, it helps fluid (aqueous humour) drain more freely, lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), the main treatable risk factor in glaucoma.
It is one of several glaucoma treatment options. Because the stents are microscopic and placed through a tiny incision, MIGS procedures like this carry a much lower risk profile and faster recovery than traditional glaucoma surgery such as trabeculectomy, while reducing reliance on pressure-lowering drops.
Who might consider it
- Open-angle glaucoma not adequately controlled on drops alone.
- Patients who have already had cataract surgery and need additional IOP control.
- Difficulty tolerating glaucoma drops — side effects, allergy or trouble instilling them.
- Those wishing to reduce their drop burden while protecting the optic nerve.
- Eyes where previous treatment has not achieved target pressure.
Want to know if iStent infinite is right for you? A glaucoma consultation reviews your pressures, optic nerve and drops to confirm suitability and exact cost.
Book a glaucoma consultationStandalone vs combined — and other MIGS
The cost depends largely on whether the iStent infinite is implanted on its own or alongside cataract surgery, and how it compares with other MIGS devices your surgeon may recommend.
Not sure which route suits you? Our guide to glaucoma treatment options — drops vs SLT vs MIGS explains how the choices compare, and milder cases may start with SLT laser treatment.
How iStent infinite is implanted
The procedure is quick and minimally invasive, usually performed under local anaesthetic as a day case. On its own it typically takes around 15–20 minutes.
- Numbing drops (or a local anaesthetic) are given and the eye is cleaned and prepared.
- A tiny self-sealing incision is made, the same kind used in cataract surgery.
- Using a gonioscopy lens to view the drainage angle, the surgeon advances the injector to the trabecular meshwork.
- Three stents are placed across the meshwork into Schlemm's canal to open multiple drainage pathways.
- The eye is checked and shielded; you rest briefly before going home the same day.
Recovery
Recovery from MIGS is generally quick and comfortable compared with traditional glaucoma surgery. Most people return to normal activities within days.
Day of surgery
Mild grittiness or blur is normal. An eye shield is worn for the first night and anti-inflammatory drops begin.
First week
Vision settles and any redness fades. A review checks the eye pressure and healing. Avoid rubbing the eye and heavy lifting.
Weeks 2–6
Drops are tapered as advised. Your surgeon assesses how much your pressure has fallen and whether glaucoma drops can be reduced.
Ongoing
Regular glaucoma monitoring continues to confirm the pressure is controlled and the optic nerve protected long term.
Cost breakdown & what's included
Our iStent infinite pricing is all-inclusive — there are no separate charges for the device, theatre or routine aftercare.
- Standalone procedure: from £3,950 per eye, including consultant surgeon, theatre and day-case fees, the iStent infinite device, post-op drops and follow-up reviews.
- Combined with cataract surgery: the MIGS element is added from £2,400 on top of your cataract surgery price — more cost-effective than two separate operations.
- Insurance: recognised by Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, Cigna and WPA where MIGS is clinically indicated. We handle pre-authorisation.
- Finance: 0% options available to spread the cost.
Compare with the rest of our glaucoma pricing and read about the underlying condition on our glaucoma information page.