Private retinal detachment surgery in the UK in 2026 costs from £6,500 per eye for a vitrectomy, with a typical range of £6,000–£10,000, and from £7,500 for scleral buckle surgery, all-inclusive. A retinal detachment is a sight-threatening emergency: the sooner the retina is reattached, the better the chance of saving vision. Sudden flashes, a shower of floaters or a curtain across your vision need same-day assessment.
A retinal detachment is a medical emergency. If you have sudden flashes, many new floaters or a curtain across your vision, seek same-day care — call NHS 111 or attend eye casualty if you cannot be seen immediately.
Urgent adviceRetinal detachment surgery cost
Pricing depends on the technique and complexity of the detachment. All prices are all-inclusive of the consultant vitreoretinal surgeon, theatre and follow-up:
Where silicone oil is used, removing the oil later is a separate operation (around £3,000–£4,000). See our scleral buckle cost and silicone oil vitrectomy cost pages for detail.
What is a retinal detachment?
The retina is the light-sensitive layer lining the back of the eye. A detachment occurs when it separates from the underlying tissue, usually after a tear lets fluid pass behind it. Without prompt repair the detached area stops working and vision is permanently lost. Read more on our retinal detachment condition and treatment pages.
Surgical options
Your surgeon selects the approach based on the detachment. Many cases are repaired the same day where possible. Vitrectomy is the most common technique; scleral buckle or a combined approach may be used depending on the tear pattern and your age.