The CATALYS Precision Laser System is a femtosecond laser platform used for laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). It uses a real-time 3D OCT image of your eye to guide three key steps — the corneal incisions, the circular opening in the lens capsule (capsulotomy) and softening (fragmentation) of the cataract — with computer-controlled precision instead of a hand-held blade. At our UK partner clinics, laser-assisted cataract surgery starts from around £3,500 per eye, all-inclusive of consultation, the laser step, your chosen intraocular lens and aftercare.
What is the CATALYS Precision laser?
CATALYS is a femtosecond laser designed specifically for cataract surgery. A femtosecond laser fires ultra-short pulses of light that create precise cuts inside eye tissue without generating heat. Before any laser is applied, the system captures a detailed 3D optical coherence tomography (OCT) image of your eye, so the surgeon can plan and the laser can deliver each step to a computer-defined template that is customised to your anatomy.
The technology automates steps that are otherwise performed by hand during standard cataract surgery. It is one of several femtosecond platforms used for laser-assisted cataract surgery in the UK; another we use is the LENSAR ALLY adaptive system. The broader technique is explained on our FLACS (femtosecond laser cataract surgery) page.
Laser-assisted vs manual cataract surgery
Both laser-assisted and conventional (manual) phacoemulsification cataract surgery are safe, highly effective operations, and the vast majority of cataract procedures in the UK are still performed manually with excellent results. The laser automates certain steps and can add precision, particularly for astigmatism correction and premium lens positioning. Your consultant will advise whether the laser is likely to benefit you.
The laser step is compatible with the full range of intraocular lenses, including monofocal, EDOF, multifocal and toric lenses for astigmatism. Your surgeon will recommend the lens that best matches your eyes and lifestyle.
What happens during CATALYS laser cataract surgery
Laser-assisted cataract surgery is a day-case procedure under local anaesthetic eye drops. You stay awake and feel no pain. The laser portion is quick and painless; the rest of the operation then proceeds like standard cataract surgery.
- Numbing drops are placed in the eye and a soft interface gently steadies it.
- The system takes a 3D OCT scan and your surgeon confirms the treatment plan on screen.
- The femtosecond laser creates the corneal incisions, the circular capsulotomy and softens the cataract — typically in under a minute of laser time.
- You move to the operating microscope, where the softened lens is removed by phacoemulsification and your chosen intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted.
- The eye is shielded and you rest before going home the same day.
Wondering if laser cataract surgery is right for you? A consultant assessment with biometry will confirm whether CATALYS FLACS suits your eyes.
Book a cataract assessmentRecovery week-by-week
Recovery after laser-assisted cataract surgery is the same as for standard cataract surgery. Most patients notice clearer vision within a day or two, with full healing over about a month.
Day of surgery
Vision is hazy for a few hours. Eye shield worn for the first night. Eye drops begin. No driving or heavy lifting.
Days 1–3
Vision clears noticeably. Mild grittiness or watering is normal. Most return to gentle activities and reading.
Week 1
First post-op review. Most patients are back to driving and working — no swimming or eye rubbing yet.
Weeks 2–4
Vision continues to refine. Drops continue. New glasses prescription, if needed, at week 4–6.
Beyond a month
Final vision is settled. Second eye scheduled if both are being treated.
Most patients use drops for a few weeks; ask your surgeon about dropless cataract surgery. Anxious patients can also discuss conscious sedation.
CATALYS laser cataract surgery cost
Laser-assisted cataract surgery is priced as an all-inclusive package: consultation, biometry, the femtosecond laser step, the surgery and theatre, your IOL of choice, post-op drops and follow-up reviews.
- Self-pay: from around £3,500 per eye for laser-assisted surgery with a monofocal lens; premium EDOF, multifocal and toric lenses cost more.
- Insurance: recognised by Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality and others — we handle authorisation.
- Finance: 0% finance available over 12 months.
For the full breakdown see our femtosecond laser cataract cost guide and the standard cataract surgery prices.