Cataract surgery has long been one of the most common and successful NHS procedures, but until now, recovery often meant weeks of managing eye drops several times a day. Optegra has become the first UK eye hospital group to introduce drop-free cataract treatment for all NHS patients across its hospitals and clinics, transforming recovery and convenience.
What is Drop-Free Cataract Surgery?
Traditionally, cataract patients are sent home with up to four different types of drops, taken three or four times daily for a month. These drops prevent infection, reduce inflammation, and aid healing, but they can be difficult to manage, uncomfortable to apply, and stressful for patients who live alone.
Optegra’s new drop-free approach delivers the same anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory protection during the cataract procedure itself, removing the need for any post-operative drops. Patients can simply relax, knowing their eye already has everything it needs to heal safely.
A Small Change with a Big Impact
Mr Alastair Stuart, Medical Director at Optegra, explained:
“For many of our patients, the drop routine has been more challenging than the surgery itself. By providing all essential medication during the operation, patients no longer face weeks of discomfort or worry about applying drops at home.”
This advance not only makes recovery more convenient but also offers medical benefits. A major study of nearly 70,000 patients found that “dropless” cataract care reduced the risk of cystoid macular oedema compared to traditional drop-based care.
Optegra’s pilot across 1,000 patients showed overwhelmingly positive results, with complication rates dropping significantly to less than 0.3%.
A Step Forward for NHS Cataract Patients
While many NHS patients across the country still face the burden of weeks of eye drops, those treated at Optegra now enjoy a smoother recovery.
Melanie Andrews, Optegra’s NHS Commissioning Director, said:
“Exceptional patient care has always been our priority. With drop-free cataract surgery now available across all our hospitals and clinics, NHS patients choosing Optegra benefit from faster access, advanced lenses, and a far simpler recovery.”
Independent surgeons have also praised the move. Sarah Maling, Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at Buckinghamshire Healthcare NHS Trust, described the change as “a significant improvement in the quality of care and the overall patient experience.”
Real Patient Experience: Linda’s Story
For 67-year-old Linda Dukes from Bridgemary, the difference was life-changing.
Linda’s vision had deteriorated so much that she could no longer read, write, or watch TV. Faced with a 2.5-year wait at her local Trust hospital, she chose Optegra instead, where her cataract surgery was scheduled within weeks.
“I was worrying about the drops,” Linda said. “My friend had recently had cataract surgery and found them such a struggle – remembering the timings, the discomfort, and asking for help. But with Optegra, I didn’t need to do a single drop afterwards. It was brilliant. My vision is so much better now, and I am so glad I had it done.”
The Future of Cataract Care
With almost half a million cataract operations performed on the NHS every year, Optegra’s innovation represents a major leap forward in patient convenience and comfort. By reducing complications and removing the burden of drops, the drop-free pathway is set to become the new standard for cataract care.
If you’ve been told you need cataract surgery, ask your GP or optician about being referred to Optegra for NHS-funded treatment, and experience the benefits of drop-free care.
By Author: Alastair Stuart
Dr Alastair Stuart is Medical Director at Optegra, and has extensive experience in both Laser eye surgery and Cataract Surgery.
Medically Reviewed Date: 15th September 2025
