A World in Focus: Patti’s Life-Changing Cataract Surgery

From the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the vibrant streets of Barcelona, Patti Mayhew has spent her life exploring the globe. As a former diplomatic service spouse, she is no stranger to new perspectives. But her most significant shift in vision didn’t happen across a border. It happened right here in Surrey.

After decades of “absolutely hating” her dependence on glasses, Patti recently underwent a transformational procedure at Optegra Eye Hospital in Surrey. The result was a life of clarity she hadn’t experienced since her 40s.

Beyond the “Annoyance” of Varifocals

Many people view glasses as a minor inconvenience, but for Patti, they were a constant frustration. Having transitioned from standard reading glasses to varifocals with transition lenses, she found herself caught in a cycle of “on-and-off” adjustments.

“I was constantly taking them on and off, even just to read labels in a shop. I never liked how they looked, and it became a real annoyance.”

Her hobbies, which include singing in a local choir, sewing, origami, and intricate craftwork, suffered the most. The dependence on eyewear even changed how she participated in her community.

“Anything close-up became frustrating, and even simple creative tasks needed constant adjustment. At my local choir rehearsals, I simply could not read the words or music – but was so unhappy in glasses I made myself learn all the words, just to avoid wearing them!”

Choosing a Path to Vision Freedom

When a routine eye check revealed that a minor cataract had progressed rapidly, Patti realised it was time for a change. While she had considered vision correction previously, the medical necessity of the cataract removal provided the final push.

Seeking the expertise of Mr Alex Shortt, a consultant ophthalmic surgeon at Optegra, Patti opted for a private treatment pathway. This choice allowed her to move beyond standard monofocal lenses to a more tailored solution.

Mr Shortt explains the difference:

“Optegra provides NHS cataract surgery to many thousands of patients a year, and it can transform vision, removing the cloudiness and making everything brighter by replacing the cataract with a monofocal lens. However, for patients who opt to have private cataract surgery, they have the option to upgrade to a multifocal lens, which means that the lens is tailored to their specific visual needs, and may lead to them being free of contact lenses or glasses – just as Mrs Mayhew has experienced.”

“A Real Liberation”

The results of the procedure were almost immediate. While she noticed a small halo around lights on the first night, the following morning brought a revelation.

“When I opened the front door to go shopping, the brightness and sharpness of everything were incredible. I hadn’t realised how much the cataract had dulled my vision. It feels like I now have clean lenses, everything is bright, and it is such a nice feeling.”

Today, Patti describes the outcome as “life-enhancing.” She can use her iPad normally, enjoy her crafts, and sing with her choir without the pressure of memorising every lyric beforehand. Her only minor hurdle?

“Putting on eyeliner. I still use a magnifying mirror for that – no one wants uneven makeup!”

Looking Ahead

Now free from the glasses she spent thirty years trying to avoid, Patti is ready to focus on what matters most: her family in the UK and Barcelona, and her many creative pursuits.

“I waited until the moment felt right, and now, I’m delighted with the result. It’s wonderful.”

Mr. Shortt shares in the joy of these life-changing results: “It is such a pleasure to treat patients whose vision has deteriorated and restore excellent sight, so they can live life to the full.”

Ready to see the world in high definition? Don’t let cataracts dull your perspective. Join thousands of patients like Patti who have rediscovered clarity at Optegra. Book a free consultation with our experts today.