Frequently asked questions

Everything you might want to know about appointments, treatments, fees and your visit.

Appointments & referrals

Do I need a GP referral to book an appointment?

You can self-refer for a private consultation, or be referred by your GP, optometrist or insurer. If using private medical insurance, please check whether your policy requires a referral and obtain pre-authorisation first.

Yes. Ms Urbaneja is fluent in Spanish and can carry out your consultation in either English or Spanish, whichever you prefer.

Your consultation includes a full discussion of your symptoms and history, a thorough eye examination, and any diagnostic scans that are needed. Ms Urbaneja explains her findings clearly and agrees a treatment plan with you before any decision is made.

Vision Clinic Wales is recognised by Allianz, Aviva, AXA Health, Vitality and WPA. Self-pay patients are equally welcome, with clear, published pricing.

Private consultations can usually be arranged promptly. Please contact our clinic team by phone or enquiry form, and we will offer you the earliest available appointment that suits your schedule across our Porthcawl or Cardiff clinics.

Yes, you are very welcome to bring recent reports, visual field analyses, or OCT scans from your local optician or optometrist. If your existing scans are current and clinically suitable, we will not need to repeat them or charge you for on-site diagnostic imaging.

Yes, for outpatient laser procedures such as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) or YAG laser capsulotomy, same-day treatment can often be accommodated if requested in advance. Please let our team know when booking so that dedicated clinic time can be scheduled for your assessment and procedure.

Treatments

What's the difference between a standard and a premium cataract lens?

A standard monofocal lens gives good distance vision, with reading glasses usually still needed. Premium lenses, such as toric or multifocal options, can correct astigmatism or reduce dependence on glasses at more than one distance. Ms Urbaneja will discuss which option suits your eyes at your consultation.

MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery) covers a group of techniques that lower eye pressure through smaller incisions than traditional glaucoma surgery, often combined with cataract surgery. Whether it’s suitable depends on the type and stage of your glaucoma, which is assessed at consultation.

Many patients notice clearer vision within a few days, though healing time varies between individuals. You’ll be given eye drops to use at home and a follow-up appointment to check healing.

This depends on the lens chosen. A standard monofocal lens usually still requires reading glasses, while toric or premium lenses may reduce how often glasses are needed. Ms Urbaneja will talk through realistic expectations for your chosen lens.

Some medications may need to be reviewed before surgery. Please bring a full list of your current medications to your consultation so this can be discussed.

Fees & insurance

What's included in the quoted price for surgery?

Guide prices include the procedure, theatre fees and standard aftercare. A full written quotation, confirming exactly what’s included for your treatment, is provided at consultation before you decide whether to proceed.

Most insurers require pre-authorisation before treatment. Please check with your insurer directly and let the clinic know your policy details so this can be arranged on your behalf.

Vision Clinic Wales is recognised by Allianz, Aviva, AXA Health, Vitality and WPA. Self-pay patients are equally welcome.

Yes. A full written quotation is always provided at your consultation, before any treatment is agreed, so there are no surprises.

Your visit

What should I bring to my appointment?

Please bring a list of any current medications, your glasses (if you wear them), and any relevant previous eye reports or letters from your GP or optician.

Diagnostic drops used during your assessment may temporarily blur your vision and make you sensitive to light for a few hours. It’s sensible to arrange a lift or public transport for the journey home, particularly for your first visit.

A consultation typically takes around 30–45 minutes, depending on the tests needed. Surgical procedures vary, details are given at your consultation.

Yes, you’re welcome to bring a family member or friend with you.

Categories

Still stuck?

Call the clinic on +44 1656 857878 and the team will help.