Cataract surgery in Norfolk and Waveney: NHS Wait vs Private Cost
If you need a cataract surgery in Norfolk and Waveney, here's the typical NHS waiting time versus what it costs to go private — updated for 2026.
NHS Wait (Norfolk and Waveney)
42 wks
Typical referral-to-treatment wait for Ophthalmology in this ICB.
Private Self-Pay
£1,000–£2,500
Typical UK self-pay range. Usually treated within 2–3 weeks.
How long is the NHS wait for a cataract surgery in Norfolk and Waveney?
In Norfolk and Waveney, the typical NHS waiting time for ophthalmology procedures such as cataract surgery is around 42 weeks from referral to treatment. Waits vary by hospital within the region and change month to month — and under NHS Right to Choose you can ask to be referred to a faster provider elsewhere in England at no cost.
What does a private cataract surgery cost?
Going private for a cataract surgery in the UK typically costs between £1,000 and £2,500, with an average around £1,500. Self-pay patients are usually seen within 2–3 weeks, compared with the 42-week NHS wait in Norfolk and Waveney — a saving of roughly 39 weeks.
Other procedures in Norfolk and Waveney
Hip replacement in Norfolk and WaveneyKnee replacement in Norfolk and WaveneyShoulder replacement in Norfolk and WaveneyKnee arthroscopy in Norfolk and WaveneyMeniscus repair in Norfolk and WaveneyCarpal tunnel release in Norfolk and Waveney
Source: NHS England RTT data (2026) and typical UK self-pay fees. Figures are indicative ranges for guidance only.