Laser Vision Correction

Expert laser eye surgery in London & Hertfordshire

Laser eye surgery has revolutionised vision correction, offering numerous benefits that extend beyond just improved eyesight. Discover the different types of laser eye surgery that can improve your vision.

Book your FREE consultation

Laser eye surgery has revolutionised vision correction, offering numerous benefits that extend beyond just improved eyesight.

For individuals tired of the lifetime cost and daily hassle of glasses or contact lenses, laser eye surgery is a quick and painless procedure which provides a permanent solution that can significantly enhance the quality of life, save money and remove the infection risk associated with contact lenses. 

What is Laser Eye Surgery?

Laser vision correction, also known as laser eye surgery, offers a transformative solution for those seeking clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

This advanced, painless procedure corrects common vision problems such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hypermetropia), astigmatism and reading vision problems (presbyopia), providing long-lasting results and improved quality of life.

Discover how laser vision correction at OCL Vision can enhance your daily activities and provide the freedom to enjoy life with clear, unaided vision.

BENEFITS OF LASER EYE SURGERY

Laser eye surgery, also known as refractive surgery, offers numerous benefits for individuals with vision problems

Get a quote

  • It commonly corrects short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hypermetropia), astigmatism and reading vision problems (presbyopia).
  • Different laser eye surgery techniques are used to correct each condition.
  • These corrections are achieved through the use of a laser which reshapes the cornea (the transparent part) and adjusts the focus of the eye.
  • Laser eye surgery at our London and Hertfordshire clinics is a brief procedure and is entirely painless due to the application of anaesthetic drops.

Cost

How much does laser eye surgery cost?

  • Free initial consultation
  • Follow-up appointments
  • 15 year aftercare guarantee

From

£1,995

Per Eye

Indicative Finance From

£37 p/m

Per Eye

TYPES OF LASER EYE SURGERY

OCL Vision provides a comprehensive range of laser procedures using the latest state-of-the-art technology.

Our expert surgeons will recommend a personalised treatment plan with the most suitable eye laser surgery solution for your lifestyle and vision needs.

LASIK

LASIK is a popular refractive surgery designed to correct common vision problems such as myopia (short-sightedness), hypermetropia (long-sightedness), astigmatism, presbyopia (reading vision problems) or any combination of these. During the procedure, our expert surgeons use a specialised low energy gentle femtosecond laser to create a thin flap in the cornea. This flap is then lifted, and the underlying corneal tissue is reshaped using an excimer laser. This precise reshaping allows light entering the eye to be properly focused onto the retina, resulting in clear vision. LASIK is renowned for its quick recovery time, high success rates, and minimal discomfort, making it an excellent choice for those seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses.

LASIK Eye Surgery

LASEK/PRK

LASEK is a laser eye surgery option that combines elements of LASIK and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy). It is particularly suitable for patients with thin or irregular corneas and who are not suitable for LASIK. During the procedure, the outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is gently loosened and moved aside. The underlying corneal tissue is then reshaped with a laser to correct vision imperfections. The epithelial layer is repositioned afterward, acting as a natural bandage while the eye heals.  LASEK offers similar vision correction benefits to LASIK but with a surface approach, making it an excellent option for those with specific corneal conditions or dry eyes. We also have access to pioneering Smartsurf technology allowing us to do TransPRK using a no touch technique whereby you can have laser eye surgery without us having to make any contact with your eye.

LASEK Eye Surgery

SmartSight™

SmartSight™ is an advanced, minimally invasive laser eye surgery that offers precise vision correction with enhanced comfort. It uses state-of-the-art laser technology to reshape the cornea without creating a flap, unlike traditional LASIK. Instead, SmartSight™ employs keratorefractive lenticule extraction (KLex), a technique initially popularised by the SMILE™ procedure. This evolution of SMILE™ incorporates the latest generation of eye tracking and tissue-saving technology for precise vision correction. The Schwind Amaris laser, renowned for its industry-leading eye tracking in LASIK, ensures exceptionally accurate vision correction. SmartSight™ is the first femtosecond laser to integrate eye tracking technology, enhancing the accuracy of lenticule extraction for superior vision correction. The procedure is quick, typically taking only a few minutes per eye, and patients often experience rapid visual improvement with minimal recovery time. SmartSight™ represents the latest innovation in refractive surgery, providing a safe, effective, and comfortable solution for achieving clear, sharp vision.

SmartSight™ Eye Surgery

PresbyMax

PresbyMAX is a revolutionary laser vision correction designed specifically to address presbyopia, the age-related condition that affects near vision. Utilising advanced excimer laser technology, PresbyMAX reshapes the cornea to create an extended range of focus effect, allowing for clear vision at multiple distances – near, intermediate, and far. This innovative procedure provides a permanent solution for those tired of relying on reading glasses or bifocals. PresbyMAX is tailored to each patient’s unique visual needs, ensuring optimal results and a significant improvement in the quality of life by restoring the ability to see clearly at all distances without corrective lenses.

PresbyMAX Eye Surgery

Blended Vision

Blended Vision, also known as monovision, is a tailored approach to vision correction that addresses presbyopia (age related need for reading glasses) by optimising one eye for distance vision and the other for near vision. This technique can be achieved through various surgical methods, including LASIK, LASEK, or Smartsight™. The brain adapts to this setup by blending the images from both eyes, allowing for clear vision across a range of distances without the need for reading glasses. Blended Vision is particularly beneficial for those over 40 experiencing age-related near vision decline. It offers a practical and effective solution to maintain visual independence and improve overall visual function in everyday activities.

Blended Vision Eye Surgery

ELIGIBILITY

Who is eligible for laser eye surgery?

Here are a few key points on who is eligible for laser eye surgery

Get a quote
  • Eye Health and Prescription Stability

    Good candidates have overall healthy eyes, free from conditions such as severe dry eye, corneal disease, or significant retinal issues. A stable vision prescription for two years, as significant fluctuations in prescription can affect the outcome of the surgery.

  • Over 18

    Candidates are typically over the age of 18, as vision prescriptions tend to stabilise after this age.advice.

  • General Health and Medical Conditions

    Should be in good general health and free from medical conditions that could affect healing, such as autoimmune disorders or uncontrolled diabetes. A thorough pre-surgical assessment ensures that any underlying health issues are addressed to minimise risks and enhance recovery.

  • Refractive Error Range

    Laser eye surgery is effective for a range of refractive errors, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. Laser eye surgery is most straightforward if your prescription is between -10D and +7.25D.

PATIENT JOURNEY

What is the process of laser eye surgery?

Find out more about the process of laser eye surgery, from initial consultation to aftercare and recovery.

Consultation

Bespoke Consultation

At your first consultation, you'll meet our team of specialist technicians, opticians, and your chosen expert surgeon. The 90-minute consultation includes a thorough eye examination using advanced diagnostic equipment. We'll assess your vision and discuss your lifestyle to recommend the most suitable treatment, for you to make an informed decision.

Treatment

Personalised Treatment

We believe in a personalised approach, customising each treatment to meet your unique visual needs. This ensures you receive the best possible procedure for your eyes and vision. Trust is paramount when it comes to your eyes, and we are committed to honesty and transparency, offering evidence-based treatments that prioritise your well-being.

Surgery

Preparing for surgery

Our team will guide you through any necessary paperwork and explain how to use your post-operative eye drops, as well as how to best look after your eyes in the days and weeks following surgery. You will meet your surgeon again before the procedure and have ample opportunity to ask any questions.

Procedure

Procedure

When you arrive for your appointment, our experienced, friendly, and empathetic team of nurses and technicians will welcome you and put you at ease. During the surgery, your surgeon will reassure you and talk you through each step, helping you feel calm and in control. Please expect your vision to be blurry, we advise you not to drive.

Aftercare

Aftercare & Results

Thanks to our advanced techniques and state-of-the-art technology, you will enjoy perfect vision as early as the next day, depending on your procedure. Follow-up appointments are part of our comprehensive aftercare package and at each appointment we will check your vision and eye health. Our team are accessible should you have any questions or concerns.

LASER EYE SURGERY USEFUL INFORMATION

Laser eye surgery aftercare

Considering laser vision correction? Here is some guidance that will answer some of your questions.

Shower

After 24hrs

Shower/Wash hair

Do not wet your eyes directly for 1 week.

Drive

48 hrs

Drive / work

Do not drive until your vision has cleared.

Swim

2 weeks

Swim

Wear goggles for 4 weeks.

Eye Shield

2 nights

Eye shields

Wear your eye shields at night.

Make up

3 days

Make-up

Do not wear eye make up.

contacts

3 days

Contact lenses

Remove contact lenses, take surgeons advice.

Exercise

After 2 days

Light exercise

Full exercise 5 days after treatment.

Fly

1 week

Fly

Take advice from your surgeon.

Time

3hrs

Time in clinic

On day of surgery.

Read our eye surgery reviews

Laser eye surgery FAQ's

View knowledge base

Is laser eye surgery painful?

Laser eye surgery is generally not considered painful. During the procedure, you are given numbing eye drops to ensure comfort, and most report feeling only mild pressure rather than pain. The entire surgery typically takes just a few minutes per eye, and discomfort is minimal. Post-surgery, some people may experience mild irritation or a gritty sensation in their eyes for a few hours to a couple of days, but this is manageable with eye drops that we give you to take away.

How long is the recovery from laser vision correction?

Most people experience a dramatic change within 24 hours post-surgery. This rapid recovery allows you to return to your normal daily activities with minimal downtime. The results are long-lasting, normally providing clear vision for many years, and in many cases, for a lifetime.

Who is suitable for laser eye surgery?

People considering laser eye surgery should be at least 18 years old with stable vision and good overall eye health.

Your prescription should be stable, ideally unchanged within the last two years, to ensure that the surgery will be effective. Laser eye surgery is most straightforward in people with a prescription range between -10D and +7.25D.

The procedure is effective for correcting myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia (reading vision problems), your comprehensive initial consultation with OCL Vision will determine your suitability for eye laser surgery.

Pregnant or nursing women should postpone the consultation for 3 months as hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to fluctuations in vision, making it difficult to determine the correct prescription for laser eye surgery. These changes can also affect the cornea's shape and thickness, potentially altering the surgery's effectiveness and the stability of the results.

How long does laser eye surgery last?

Laser eye surgery provides permanent changes to your cornea, but your vision may still change over time due to natural ageing processes, like developing presbyopia. For most people, the results of laser eye surgery remain satisfactory for at least 10+ years. However, some individuals may require a retreatment after this period if their eye condition progresses.

Can I have laser eye surgery if I have dry eyes?

Having dry eyes doesn't necessarily disqualify you from laser eye surgery, but it's an important factor to consider. Your eye surgeon will assess the severity of your dry eye condition during your consultation. In some cases, they may recommend treating the dry eye symptoms before proceeding with laser surgery. It's crucial to discuss this with your surgeon to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Is it safe to have laser eye surgery during pregnancy?

It is generally not recommended to have laser eye surgery whilst pregnant or breastfeeding. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can affect your vision and the shape of your cornea, potentially leading to inaccurate surgical results. Additionally, some medications used during and after the procedure may not be safe for pregnant women. It's best to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding to consider laser eye surgery.

Book a Consultation

We’re here to answer your questions, talk through the process, and arrange a consultation with our caring team when you’re ready.

Book a Consultation