
How to find the best cataract surgeon in London
Choosing to have cataract surgery is a big step—one that can dramatically improve your quality of life. But the next step is just as important: finding the right cataract surgeon.
With so many options in a city like London, how do you know who to trust with your vision?
Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the best cataract surgeon for your needs—and what to look out for during your search.
1. Look for Experience and Specialisation
Cataract surgery is delicate and requires precision. Choose a surgeon who performs cataract procedures regularly—ideally hundreds each year.
Ask:
- How many cataract surgeries do you perform each year?
- Do you specialise in premium lens implants?
- Have you treated patients with complex eye conditions?
At Sharmina Khan Eye Clinic, cataract surgery is not just part of what we do—it’s our primary focus.
2. Check Credentials and Training
Make sure your surgeon is:
- Registered with the General Medical Council (GMC)
- On the Specialist Register for Ophthalmology
- A member of professional bodies like The Royal College of Ophthalmologists
Additional fellowship training in cataract or refractive surgery is a bonus.
3. Ask About Technology Used
Modern cataract surgery can be performed with laser-assisted technology. Surgeons who offer this often provide more precise outcomes, especially if you're choosing a premium lens.
Find out:
- Do you offer femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery?
- Do you use advanced eye-mapping technology?
A clinic equipped with the latest tools reflects a commitment to quality and innovation.
4. Explore Lens Options
Not all cataract surgery is the same. Ask about the types of lenses available:
- Monofocal lenses (distance only)
- Multifocal or trifocal lenses (distance + near)
- Toric lenses (to correct astigmatism)
A great surgeon will help you understand your options and guide you to the right choice based on your lifestyle.
5. Read Reviews and Patient Testimonials
Hearing directly from patients is one of the best ways to assess a surgeon’s results and patient care.
Look for:
- Verified reviews on platforms like Google or Doctify
- Testimonials on the clinic’s website
- Word-of-mouth recommendations from your optician or GP
6. Pay Attention to the Consultation
Your consultation is your chance to ask questions and get a feel for the clinic. It should never feel rushed.
A top cataract surgeon will:
- Listen to your concerns
- Explain procedures in simple language
- Provide a personalised plan based on your eye health and goals
At Sharmina Khan Eye Clinic, consultations are thoughtful and patient-centred. We take the time to get it right.
7. Consider Private vs NHS Options
While the NHS provides excellent cataract care, private clinics often offer:
- Shorter wait times
- Choice of surgeon
- Access to advanced lenses and laser options
- More personalised care resulting in freedom from spectacles
If you’re looking for the highest level of service and the most up-to-date options, private care may be the right choice.
8. Assess Aftercare Support
Great outcomes rely on great aftercare. Ask:
- Will I have follow-up appointments?
- Who do I contact if I have questions after surgery?
- Are check-ups included in the package?
At our clinic, aftercare is never an afterthought—it’s part of the full journey to better vision.
9. Ask for a Transparent Quote
Costs can vary depending on the lens you choose and whether you opt for laser-assisted surgery. Ask for a clear, written quote that includes:
- The procedure
- The lens
- Aftercare
- Any additional fees
Choosing the best cataract surgeon in London is about more than just skill—it’s about trust, experience, technology, and care.
At Sharmina Khan Eye Clinic, we bring all of these together to provide safe, modern cataract treatment that suits your lifestyle and vision goals.
Ready to take the first step? Try our free suitability self-test to see if cataract surgery could be right for you.
Are you suitable for vision treatments?
They aren’t suitable for everyone.
Find out if you could benefit from this life-changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
Our most popular procedures
What our patients say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Had cataract surgery on both eyes simultaneously last week and, 7 days later, the vision is brilliant. I can see to read as well, including small print smaller than I expected! I can see car number plates at the end of the road. Everything was excellent, and I could not have wished for anything better.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“My cataract surgery was a great experience. My vision is now brighter; overall, I felt informed and secure throughout, and I am glad I did it and definitely recommend Sharmina Khan. Everyone at the hospital was great, very professional, friendly, and treated me very nicely. During the surgery, I didn’t feel any pain at any time. The recovery was very easy and smooth.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I was very nervous about having cataract surgery, as I have other medical conditions in both eyes. Ms. Khan allayed all of my fears and explained everything in detail to me. Now that both surgeries are completed, I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I’m seeing things I’ve not been able to see properly in years. Amazing!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Ms. Sharmina Khan is an outstanding eye consultant. She took the time to listen attentively to my concerns and provided thoughtful, easy-to-understand explanations. Her depth of knowledge and ability to address my questions left me thoroughly satisfied with her services. I highly recommend Ms. Sharmina Khan to anyone seeking expert eye care and guidance.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I had cataract surgery in both eyes. The procedure was painless, easy to understand, and swift. My anxiety levels were very low, and recovery was quick and easy. I was just so relaxed. My vision was like being Wonder Woman. It was so clear, and it was like someone had cleaned a window. Now, my vision is fine for reading, computer use, and using a sewing machine.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Extremely happy with vision following cataract surgery. I wish I had it done sooner. The colors I am experiencing, I didn’t know existed. The experience was really good; it wasn’t much painful. I really enjoyed the sandwiches afterward. When I got home, I saw every little mark on the walls and now am cleaning up!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“6/5. Incredibly impressed with Miss Khan’s bedside manner and operation and consultation. I have had the Synergy toric lens and have experienced a dramatic increase in distance vision. Now, I am able to read stuff on the television perfectly, and reading small print, I can now read the back of a tin of beans!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Miss Khan was very professional, and both my eyes had trifocal intra-ocular lens implants (toric in the left). The risks and benefits were explained to my satisfaction, and I was very nervous. However, the procedure and the recovery were painless. I now have perfect unaided vision in both eyes and would recommend Miss Khan, 10 out of 10.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I’m so pleased I sought Sharmina Khan’s help. My dry eye problem was debilitating. I turned up to my appointment in a very worried state and left reassured. My eyes are now vastly better. I feel in good hands. Thank you!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I have had Lipiflow a few times now, and I couldn’t do without it because it really gets rid of my gritty and sore eyes for months at a time. Lipiflow has helped me go back to doing normal things without getting frustrated, like driving, tolerating air conditioning, generally tolerating different humidity levels, and not feeling like I need to use eye drops all the time. I would highly recommend it.”
We have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Sharmina Khan
MBBS(Lond) MSc FHEA FRCOphth DipCRS CertLRS, Consultant Eye Surgeon
Hi, I’m Sharmina Khan
I am a specialist Cataract & Lens Consultant Surgeon based in London.
I have carried out over 7000+ cataract/lens procedures in the last 10 years across both my private and NHS practices.
In my private clinic I offer my clients bespoke Premium Cataract Care Pathways. There are options so that you can achieve your dreams of better vision and more, according to your lifestyle needs.