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Treatments
From cataract to the Retina.
Not sure where to start?
Start with your symptoms, and I will guide you from there.
If you do not know which treatment you need, read about your condition first, or call me on 07438 437366. I will tell you honestly whether a consultation is worth booking.
What happens at your first appointment?
Most private eye treatments start with a consultation with me rather than a procedure. At that appointment I will:
- listen to what has changed in your sight and what matters to you day to day
- examine both eyes, usually with dilating drops, and arrange retinal imaging if it helps
- explain what I find, the options, and what happens before, during and after any treatment
- give you written aftercare instructions and plan follow-up if you go ahead
Drops that widen the pupil can blur your sight for a few hours, so it is wise not to drive yourself to an appointment where your eyes may be dilated.
Private cataract surgery in Surrey: what to expect
Cataract surgery replaces the cloudy natural lens with a clear artificial lens that stays in your eye permanently. I have performed over 10,000 cataract operations, and my lists include complex cases such as dense cataracts, small pupils, previous eye surgery and pseudoexfoliation.
Routine surgery usually takes 15 to 30 minutes under local anaesthetic, and sedation can be arranged if you are very anxious or find it hard to lie flat. I normally suggest waiting 2 weeks before driving, and avoiding heavy lifting and swimming pools for 6 weeks. The NHS guide to cataract surgery explains the operation step by step.
Surgery time
15 to 30 minutes
Anaesthetic
Local anaesthetic
Before driving
2 weeks
Heavy lifting and swimming
6 weeks
When should you not wait for a routine appointment?
Some eye symptoms need checking the same day. Contact an Optometrist, call NHS 111 or call me if you notice:
Same day
new flashes or floaters, or a dark curtain or shadow moving across your vision
Same day
a painful red eye, especially with sensitivity to light or blurred vision
Emergency
sudden loss of sight in one or both eyes, or severe eye pain: go to A&E or call 999
Questions about private eye treatments
Do I need a GP referral for private eye treatment?
No. You can contact me directly as a self-pay patient. If you are using health insurance, check your policy first, because many insurers ask for a referral from your GP or Optometrist before they will cover a consultation.
How much do private eye treatments cost?
A new consultation is £260 and a follow-up is £195. Surgery and procedures are quoted after I have assessed your eyes, and each hospital gives you a package price. My fees and insurance page explains the details.
Where will my treatment take place?
I see patients at Nuffield Health Woking, The Runnymede Hospital in Chertsey, Mount Alvernia Hospital in Guildford and VISIO Health near High Wycombe. My hospitals page has the addresses.
Will the same surgeon see me afterwards?
Yes. I see you myself before and after surgery, with no call centre in between. If something worries you while you recover, call or email me directly; I aim to reply within 24 hours.
Speak to me directly
A direct line to your surgeon, before and after surgery.
There is no call centre or switchboard. Call me on 07438 437366, email enquiries@soniamall.co.uk or request an appointment online, and I aim to reply within 24 hours. My 2026 fees are confirmed when you book.