For most of her life, Holly Sutton never knew what it felt like to see clearly without glasses or contact lenses. Having worn prescription glasses since the age of two, her high prescription (+8/+7.5 with astigmatism) meant visual aids were simply a fact of daily life.
But just in time for her best friend’s wedding, everything changed. Thanks to a pioneering vision correction procedure at Optegra Eye Hospital Hampshire, Holly is now seeing the world through her own eyes for the first time in 26 years, with no need for glasses or contact lenses.
Saying Goodbye to Glasses… with a Party
Now 28, Holly, from Fareham, decided to mark the occasion in her own unique way. “I was so incredibly excited about losing my glasses after all those years – we had to party!” she laughs. “We played eyesight-themed games and had a playlist full of vision-related songs, like Eye of the Tiger. Saying goodbye to my glasses was a big deal – they’d been such a huge part of my identity, so I wanted to officially mark the end of that chapter.”
Like many people with strong prescriptions, Holly had long struggled with the limitations of glasses and contact lenses. Contact lens discomfort, steamed-up glasses, prescription sunglasses complications, and the constant switching between them made everyday tasks frustrating.
As someone who enjoys being active, Holly often felt restricted. “At the gym or pool, I felt vulnerable. I couldn’t read the clock or see the lifeguard clearly. That was actually unsafe at times,” she explains.
A Milestone Moment: Vision Transformation Before the Wedding
The real turning point came when Holly’s best friend asked her to be a bridesmaid. “I’ve never liked wearing glasses at social events, and I wanted to look and feel my best on her big day,” she says. “That wedding date became my mission deadline – I was going to be glasses-free.”
Due to Holly’s high prescription, she wasn’t suitable for laser eye surgery. But during her consultation at Optegra Eye Hospital Hampshire, she learned about an alternative: Implantable Contact Lenses (ICL). It’s designed for patients with higher prescriptions or unsuitable corneal thickness for laser procedures. And for Holly, it proved to be the perfect solution.
Expert Care and a Seamless Experience at Optegra
Holly was treated by Mr Alastair Stuart, consultant ophthalmic surgeon and UK Medical Director at Optegra.
“While laser eye surgery is a great option for most patients, it’s not suitable for everyone,” Mr Stuart explains. “In cases like Holly’s, ICL surgery can deliver outstanding results. The procedure involves placing a customised lens inside the eye, on top of the natural lens, to correct vision. It’s safe, effective, and delivers fast recovery and life-changing clarity.”
For Holly, the experience was both exciting and emotional. “I was nervous on the day, but the team were incredible,” she recalls. “They talked me through everything and truly cared about my journey. I felt like a person, not just a patient.”
A Wedding to Remember – With Crystal-Clear Vision
Walking down the aisle without her glasses was a moment Holly will never forget. “The convenience was amazing,” she says. “Not having to worry about contact lenses or glasses on such an important day took a huge weight off my mind. I could just focus on enjoying it all – no distractions, no discomfort.”
Even weeks later, she was still adjusting to her new reality. “It’s surreal not to reach for my glasses in the morning,” she says. “Seeing my face without them has taken some getting used to! But I feel so free. I only wish I’d done this sooner.”
A Personalised Approach to Vision Correction
At Optegra, we understand that everyone’s vision journey is unique. That’s why we offer a full range of advanced procedures, from laser eye surgery to ICL and lens replacement. Our expert surgeons tailor treatment to each individual’s needs, ensuring the best possible outcome for every patient.
If, like Holly, you’ve been told you’re not suitable for laser surgery, you may still have options. Implantable Contact Lenses could provide the freedom you’ve been waiting for. Book your free, no-obligation consultation today and discover the life-changing difference clear vision can make.
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: 16th October 2025
