For many, the Great South Run is a test of physical endurance. For 28-year-old Aaisha Ahmed, it was also a celebration of a life-changing medical milestone. After years of relying on a heavy -8.5 prescription, Aaisha completed the race in torrential rain with clear vision, thanks to a specialist procedure at Optegra Eye Hospital Hampshire.
The Growing Burden of Contact Lenses
Aaisha’s journey with corrective eyewear began at age 11. While she quickly transitioned to contact lenses to accommodate her active lifestyle and school sports, the long-term effects eventually took a toll.
“I started to notice my eyes were very dry, and it was affecting my vision at work, which involves long hours in front of a computer,” Aaisha explains.
The decision to seek a permanent solution was inspired by a recommendation close to home. After her husband underwent successful laser eye surgery at Optegra, Aaisha decided to trade the ongoing costs of eye checks and disposables for a long-term investment in her sight.
Why ICL Was the Answer
Initially, Aaisha sought SMILE laser surgery. However, during her consultation, Mr Alastair Stuart, Consultant Surgeon and Medical Director at Optegra, recommended Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL) as the superior option for her specific needs.
Unlike traditional laser surgery, which reshapes the cornea, ICL involves placing a small, flexible lens inside the eye between the iris and the natural lens.
“Implantable Contact Lenses are an excellent alternative as it does not require the removal of corneal tissue,” says Mr Stuart. “Instead, the lens works in harmony with the eye to correct short-sight, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. Given Aaisha’s age and strong prescription, it was the perfect solution.”
Immediate Results and a Competitive Debut
Despite some pre-surgery nerves, Aaisha describes the procedure as pain-free and the recovery as instantaneous.
“As soon as I had finished, I could see everyone’s faces so clearly. It was fantastic to see that well unaided after so many years relying on lenses,” she recalls.
The timing proved perfect. Shortly after her recovery, Aaisha took part in the Great South Run. Navigating the course in heavy rain would have been a struggle with steaming glasses or irritating contact lenses, but instead, she was able to focus entirely on the race.
A Life Without Limitations
Beyond the finish line of a competitive run, the surgery has transformed Aaisha’s daily routine. Simple tasks that many take for granted, such as identifying bottles in the shower to waking up without reaching for a bedside table, have become a source of daily joy.
“Going on holiday will be so much easier without having to take all my lenses and solutions,” she says. “I can just grab my sunglasses and go! My only regret is that I didn’t have this surgery sooner.”
Discover Your Vision Options
If you have a strong prescription and want to move away from glasses and contact lenses, ICL may be the right path for you. Book a free consultation with one of our experts today.
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: 23rd December 2025
