Simon: “Moorfields’ impartial advice gave me trust and confidence”

“Everyday tasks became increasingly frustrating.”

My vision in my right eye started to deteriorate about 20 years ago. It gradually became more blurred, and over time I found myself relying more heavily on my left eye. Everyday tasks became increasingly frustrating - my vision while driving felt below par, I struggled to read food labels in supermarkets, and in dimly lit restaurants I often had to use my iPhone torch just to see the menu!

I’d seen first-hand how effective eye treatment could be. My father had cataract surgery years ago, and I remember him describing the result as like going from a faded, sepia-tinted Victorian photograph to an 'ultra-HD' image full of vivid colour! He said it was utterly transformative. That always stayed with me, and eventually I decided it was time to do something about my own vision.

“Before seeking professional advice, I did extensive research online.”

Before seeking professional advice, I did extensive research online (including using AI) to explore my likely options. Based on my age (63), lens replacement in both eyes was suggested as a possible solution, so with that in mind I chose Moorfields Private for an initial consultation. The choice of clinic was easy, as Moorfields is widely known as the best place in the UK for eye care and so I booked an initial consultation with Mr Ionides.

Just before my appointment, I had a few tests done to assess my vision and eye health. In particular, I wanted to see if there was any evidence of cataracts, as my father had suffered from them and I feared they might be hereditary. To my surprise, Mr Ionides concluded I was suitable for laser eye surgery in my right eye, as my left eye was healthy, with good vision and there were no signs of a cataract. His recommendation was to treat my right eye with LASIK, in order to bring vision in it to the same level as in my left eye. This felt like balanced and impartial advice, and it gave me a lot of confidence that things were nowhere near as bad as I had feared.

“I was impressed by the whole experience at Moorfields Private.”

The staff were incredibly welcoming. Even small things like being greeted with a handshake and a smile by the practice manager made such a difference. The clinical team explained everything they were doing, step by step, and this, combined with Mr Ionides’ reassuring manner, made me feel completely at ease.

Despite having had many medical procedures before, I was more nervous than usual - after all, this was my eye! But in hindsight, I needn’t have worried. My consultant had already walked me through every step of the procedure (and aftercare) during my consultation, which helped a lot. The LASIK procedure itself was quick and completely painless, and I was able to go home the same day.

One thing that really stood out was the level of aftercare. Mr Ionides gave me his personal phone number and said he would message me later that day to check how I was doing - and he did exactly that. He continued to communicate with me for the next few days, until he was sure I was totally comfortable and happy. It was incredibly reassuring to know I could contact him directly if I needed to. Thankfully, my recovery was very straightforward.

“Vision in my treated eye is better than 20/20.”

One week later, at my follow-up appointment, I was told that the vision in my treated eye was better than 20/20 - essentially perfect! It’s continued to improve since then. I experienced a slight halo effect initially, but that’s already improving as my brain is adjusting to having both eyes working at the same level again. Driving, shopping and dining out are so much easier and enjoyable now.

I’m absolutely delighted with the results of my treatment; I’ve already referred a friend to Mr Alex Ionidies - I just wish I’d seen him much sooner!