Shared Vision Success for Disley Couple at Optegra Eye Hospital Manchester

A husband and wife are celebrating a new lease on life after undergoing transformative treatments for two very different eye conditions at Optegra Eye Hospital Manchester. From Dr Annette Tomlinson’s life-changing cataract surgery to Professor David Tomlinson’s rapid intervention for wet AMD, their story highlights the power of expert, local care. Read on to learn more about their story.

How Optegra Helped Restore Their Clarity

Dr Annette Tomlinson, 83, experienced a gradual dimming of her vision which started to affect everyday tasks and activities, including reading menus in restaurants, recognising public signs and enjoying a long-time hobby of ornithology. She was referred by her local optician for cataract surgery at Optegra Manchester.

Two years later, her husband, Professor David Tomlinson, 79, noticed a subtle distortion in his vision, with straight lines appearing wavy. He trusted his instincts and acted quickly, leading to an early diagnosis of wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in his right eye, and prompt treatment to protect his sight, also at Optegra Manchester.

The Emeritus Professor from the Faculty of Biology, Health and Medicine at the University of Manchester, realised what his eye problem was likely to be before consulting his optician and receiving a referral. “I noticed a slight distortion of horizontal lines,” he said. “My mother had macular degeneration, and no treatment was available for her at that time, so I witnessed her slowly lose her central vision.  I am deeply grateful that I can probably avoid that.”

A Trusted Reputation Built on Personal Recommendations

Professor Tomlinson chose Optegra Eye Hospital Manchester based on three factors – his optician’s recommendation, his own research and his wife’s positive cataract surgery experience.

“My wife was very pleased with her care. My optician’s recommendation, accompanied by my own research, suggested that it was indeed the best option. We could receive treatment closer to home, but if the travel is straightforward, I will continue with Optegra.”

Advanced Clinical Management and the Patient Experience

Diagnosed in August 2025, he started an initial course of anti-VEGF injections at monthly intervals for the first three months, followed by a two-month pause. His treatment is now continuing at six-week intervals. “Although there was no deficit with my vision, treatment was initiated based on scans of the back of my eye.

“The treatment is essential and is being delivered as straightforwardly, humanely and kindly as possible. I’m very glad it’s available.

“The scans and tests are thorough, and the ophthalmologists clearly explain what they’re seeing – I have seen pictures of my retina, and I have sufficient experience to appreciate their comments. The nurse-practitioners administering the injections are excellent – careful, skilled and kind. The injections are quick and insensible.” Professor Tomlinson expressed. 

Excellence Across Private and NHS Care Pathways

While they each had different treatments, on different pathways (NHS and private), they both said they always received excellent service. Annette said: “My experience at Optegra was professional, prompt, caring, friendly, reassuring and successful. Pre and post-treatment literature was comprehensive and readily understandable.

“All parts of the treatment procedure were explained carefully and in detail before being carried out, and both medical and administrative staff were helpful and friendly. Overall, my treatment was excellent.”

The Vital Impact of Vision on an Active Retirement

Good eyesight remains vital to the couple in retirement. “I hadn’t appreciated how limiting my vision was until I had cataract surgery – the improvement is incredible,” said Annette. Her husband agrees: “My hobbies and interests very much depend on good vision. I write a lot, so I need to see the script clearly on the screen. I’m also a keen birdwatcher and wildlife photographer.

“Our advice to anyone else who experiences changes in their vision would be to get referred and treated as quickly as possible because early treatment can slow AMD, protect central vision, and significantly reduce the risk of permanent sight loss.

“No one should put up with fading vision from cataracts, and seeking help sooner rather than later can make a life-changing difference.”

Get in Touch With Our Expert Team Today

If you have noticed changes in your vision or wish to discuss the specialist treatments available for cataracts and wet AMD, our expert team is here to help. Contact one of our Optegra eye hospitals today to book a consultation. Discover how our comprehensive range of NHS and private services can help you protect and enhance your sight for the years ahead.