The VisuMax 800 is the latest-generation femtosecond laser from Carl Zeiss Meditec, running at 800 kHz so it cuts faster than the previous VisuMax. It is used for two corneal laser procedures — SMILE (small-incision lenticule extraction) and femto-LASIK flap creation. UK laser eye surgery on platforms like this typically costs £2,400 to £3,500 per eye. Laser reshapes the cornea and is best suited to younger eyes with a stable prescription; for many people over 45, a lens-based procedure is a better long-term answer.
What the VisuMax 800 is
The VisuMax 800 is a femtosecond laser platform. In SMILE it shapes a small disc of tissue (a lenticule) inside the intact cornea and the surgeon removes it through a tiny keyhole incision; in femto-LASIK it creates the corneal flap that is lifted before an excimer laser reshapes the surface. The 800 kHz speed shortens the laser time and supports newer software workflows. It is one of several modern laser systems used by specialist refractive clinics.
How the procedure works
Laser vision correction is a day-case procedure under anaesthetic eye drops. With SMILE the femtosecond laser does all the work through a 2–4mm opening; with LASIK the femtosecond laser makes the flap and an excimer laser then reshapes the cornea. Vision is hazy for a few hours and clears over 24–48 hours. Laser is permanent, but it corrects the cornea only — it does not stop the natural lens ageing, so reading glasses and cataracts still develop with time.
When a lens-based alternative is better
Laser suits younger patients (roughly 21–40) with a stable, moderate prescription and healthy corneas. If you are 45 or over, have a high prescription, early lens changes or developing presbyopia, refractive lens exchange (RLE) usually solves more: it replaces the natural lens with a premium intraocular lens, addresses reading vision and removes any future cataract risk. Our consultants specialise in lens-based and cataract surgery rather than corneal laser, so we will give you a straight answer about which route fits your eyes.
We focus on lens-based vision correction. If you are researching laser, a consultation can tell you honestly whether laser or RLE suits you better.
Read the laser suitability guideCost of VisuMax 800 laser eye surgery
As a UK 2026 guide, laser eye surgery on modern platforms (SMILE or femto-LASIK) is typically £2,400 to £3,500 per eye, varying by clinic, procedure and prescription. Beware headline “from” prices that exclude scans or premium tracking. For comparison, refractive lens exchange at our clinics starts from £2,900 per eye and is the procedure we recommend and provide for suitable patients over 45. See the laser eye surgery guide for more.
Frequently asked questions
How much does VisuMax 800 laser eye surgery cost in the UK?
As a UK 2026 guide, laser eye surgery (SMILE or femto-LASIK) on modern platforms is typically GBP 2,400 to 3,500 per eye, depending on clinic, procedure and prescription. Watch for headline prices that exclude pre-op scans.
What is the VisuMax 800 used for?
It is a high-speed femtosecond laser used for SMILE (small-incision lenticule extraction) and to create the corneal flap in femto-LASIK. Both are corneal laser procedures to correct short-sight and astigmatism in suitable eyes.
Is laser eye surgery or refractive lens exchange better for me?
Laser suits younger patients with stable, moderate prescriptions and healthy corneas. From around 45, or with high prescriptions or developing presbyopia, refractive lens exchange usually solves more and removes future cataract risk. A consultation confirms which fits your eyes.
Do you offer VisuMax laser surgery at your clinics?
Our consultants specialise in lens-based and cataract surgery rather than corneal laser. We are happy to advise on laser suitability and, where laser is right for you, point you to it — but the procedure we provide for suitable patients is refractive lens exchange.