Published on 02 September 2025
Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed medical procedures in the world, with millions of people undergoing it each year to restore their vision and quality of life. In 2024, there were over 580,000 admissions to hospitals for cataract surgery in England alone.
But while the procedure itself is very common, with a high success rate, where and how you choose to have it done can make a significant difference. Choosing the right hospital, Surgeon, and surgical method is essential - not just for optimal visual outcomes, but for your overall experience and peace of mind.
Our highly qualified Consultants
Here at Benenden Hospital, we’re proud to be the number one provider of private cataract surgery in Kent and Sussex*. Our UK-trained Consultants are among the highest-qualified in the field, having completed fellowships and sub speciality training at world-renowned institutions such as Moorfields Eye Hospital and St Thomas' Hospital. They are all Fellows of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, signifying a very high standard of ophthalmic knowledge, experience and training.
Supported by experienced and caring staff in our specialist award-winning Eye Unit, our Consultants provide a full diagnostic ophthalmic service as well as treatment for cataracts, YAG laser treatment for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) and non-cosmetic oculoplastic surgery.
All our Consultant Ophthalmologists have high patient satisfaction rates, as evidenced by 5-star Patient Trust Scores on Doctify, an independent healthcare review platform, which rates our hospital 4.86/5 overall.
Our high-tech and methodical approach to infection control means we offer a safe, clean environment, and are proud to maintain a 0% MRSA infection rate.
More choice, advanced technology
For NHS referrals, the NHS funds standard monofocal lenses. If choosing to self-pay, there is more choice available from our range of advanced replacement lenses. These include:
- Monofocal toric lens – Designed to correct astigmatism
- Multifocal lens – Provides a range of vision: near distances, intermediate distances and far distances
- Multifocal toric lens - Combination lens to correct astigmatism and provide vision for near, intermediate, and far distances
- Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens – Designed to give you a better range of focus (compared to a standard monofocal lens) from far distance to intermediate distance vision
- Toric extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens – Combination lens to correct both astigmatism and your focus for far distance and intermediate distance
Find out more about these special lenses in this article.
Our private patients also benefit from Callisto Eye®, an advanced surgical guidance system used by our Consultants to assist in the perfect alignment of toric lenses. Less than 15% of eye units in the UK have this technology.
If you’re paying for your own private treatment, you have the freedom to choose your own Consultant. Whether you already have a shortlist, a recommendation, or are starting your research from scratch, it’s important that you feel reassured that your eye health is in the very best hands.
Use our Consultant search to find a cataract Surgeon to suit your needs.
Book your cataract surgery consultation
Start your journey to clearer vision. Book your initial consultation online or by calling our Private Patient team on 01580 363158.
*Private Healthcare Information Network 2024