SANDONIA – CLEARER VISION AND A PRAGUE STAY

Cataract Surgery for Patients from Ireland

Access experienced eye surgeons and modern lens options in Prague at a significantly lower cost than many private cataract surgery prices in Ireland.

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Cataract surgery in Prague from just €843

Lens replacement surgery

INTRODUCTION

What Is Cataract Surgery

A cataract develops when the eye’s normally clear natural lens becomes cloudy. This can make your vision blurred, dim or less colourful and may gradually interfere with reading, driving, recognising faces and other everyday activities.

Cataract surgery removes the cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear artificial intraocular lens, known as an IOL. Modern cataract surgery is normally performed under local anaesthesia using precise microsurgical techniques. The lens selected for you will depend on your eye health, prescription and visual priorities.

If cataracts are affecting your independence or quality of life, the first step is a detailed eye assessment to confirm whether surgery is appropriate and which lens option may suit you best.

TRUSTED BY PATIENTS WORLDWIDE

HSE Cross Border Directive

Some eligible patients living in Ireland may be able to apply to the HSE for reimbursement towards cataract surgery in another EU country under the Cross Border Directive. Patients pay the healthcare provider directly and apply to the HSE afterwards. Referral and supporting-document requirements apply, while optional prior notification can help establish whether you may qualify and indicate the potential reimbursement amount.

Reimbursement is not guaranteed and is limited to the lower of the amount paid abroad or the cost of equivalent treatment in Ireland’s public system. Travel, accommodation and translation costs are not reimbursed, and a premium lens upgrade may leave a balance for the patient to pay. Please obtain advice directly from the HSE before booking. SANDONIA can provide relevant treatment documentation but cannot determine or guarantee your eligibility.

READ OUR HSE CATARACT SURGERY AND REIMBURSEMENT GUIDE

Cataract Surgery Cost in Prague for Patients from Ireland

This service is designed for patients travelling from Ireland to Prague for private cataract treatment. We guide you through the preparation, clinic appointments and treatment schedule and can advise you on flights, accommodation and transfers.

Monofocal Lenses

from €

843

PER EYE

Typical private price in Ireland: around €3,000 per eye

Cataract surgery performed by an experienced eye surgeon

High-quality monofocal intraocular lens

Required medication, including antibiotic eye drops

Local anaesthesia for your comfort during the procedure

Post-operative examinations during your stay in Prague

GET OFFER
Premium EDOF/Vivity Lenses

from €

1296

PER EYE

Typical private price in Ireland: around €4,500 per eye

Cataract surgery performed by an experienced eye surgeon

Premium EDOF / Vivity lens for an extended range of vision

Required medication, including antibiotic eye drops

Local anaesthesia for your comfort during the procedure

Post-operative examinations during your stay in Prague

GET OFFER
Premium Trifocal Lenses

from €

1296

PER EYE

Typical private price in Ireland: around €4,500 per eye

Cataract surgery performed by an experienced eye surgeon

Premium trifocal lens designed for near, intermediate and distance vision

Required medication, including antibiotic eye drops

Local anaesthesia for your comfort during the procedure

Post-operative examinations during your stay in Prague

GET OFFER
Irish woman reviewing HSE cataract surgery reimbursement documents at home

The process was straightforward, and I received my HSE reimbursement.

Irish woman reviewing HSE cataract surgery reimbursement documents at home

★

★

★

★

★

Mary O’Sullivan, Ireland

How HSE Cataract Surgery Works

Eligible patients from Ireland may travel to the Czech Republic for planned cataract treatment and apply for reimbursement under the HSE Cross Border Directive. Cataract surgery is listed by the HSE as an eligible ophthalmic service, but the HSE makes the final decision on every application. This is the process you should normally expect.

Step 01

Confirm your eligibility and complete the referral requirements

You must be entitled to public healthcare in Ireland and ordinarily live in Ireland, or intend to live there, for at least one year.

Obtain a referral from an Irish GP or a consultant you have seen as a public patient, or written confirmation that you are on a public hospital waiting list.

For full details of the required documents and the reimbursement application process, please read the official HSE guidance on applying for Cross Border Directive healthcare costs.

Step 02

Consider prior notification and send your medical information

HSE prior notification is optional, but it is a sensible step before committing to treatment. It can provide an indication of whether the proposed care may qualify and how much may be reimbursed, although the exact amount is only confirmed after treatment. Complete SANDONIA’s medical questionnaire and provide your current prescription, available ophthalmology reports and any other requested information. SANDONIA can arrange a preliminary medical review and explain the proposed Prague schedule and price, but this does not constitute HSE approval.

Step 03

Travel to Prague for your assessment and treatment

You will have a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with the eye surgeon in Prague. The surgeon confirms whether surgery is suitable and recommends the appropriate intraocular lens. If you proceed, each eye is normally treated on a separate day according to your confirmed programme.

Step 04

Pay the provider and collect the required documents

You must pay the healthcare provider directly. Keep an itemised invoice, proof that you personally made the payment and your medical reports.

Step 05

Apply to the HSE for reimbursement

After treatment, submit the completed application form, referral or waiting-list letter, proof of payment and the required clinical documentation to the HSE.

Reimbursement is limited to the lower of the amount you paid abroad or the cost of the equivalent treatment in Ireland’s public healthcare system. Travel, accommodation and translation costs are not covered.

Apply online here: https://www2.hse.ie/services/schemes-allowances/cross-border-directive/apply-for-repayment/

HSE Document Checklist

Before submitting your reimbursement application, make sure you have collected all the documents required by the HSE.

DOCUMENTS YOU MAY NEED:

  • Completed HSE healthcare costs application form: https://assets.hse.ie/media/documents/CBD-Healthcare-costs-application-form.pdf
  • Referral letter dated before the outpatient consultation, or confirmation of your place on an Irish public hospital waiting list
  • Itemised invoice showing the patient, provider, treatment, date, amount and cost breakdown
  • Proof that you paid the healthcare provider directly
  • Relevant medical reports and discharge or treatment documentation
  • Certified translation of any required document that is not in English or Irish
READ THE COMPLETE HSE CATARACT SURGERY GUIDE

CATARACT SURGERY AND LENS REPLACEMENT EXPERIENCES IN PRAGUE

SANDONIA Reviews: Real Stories from Our Patients

Discover why patients from Ireland and other countries choose SANDONIA for eye surgery in Prague. These patient experiences highlight the clear communication, professional clinic care and personal support provided from the first enquiry through treatment and recovery.

Our Offer:
Clearer vision and a carefully organised stay in Prague. Ask for your personalised cataract surgery assessment and price today.

PLAN YOUR STAY

How Long Will You Need in Prague for Cataract Surgery?

MONDAY
Comprehensive pre-operative eye examination and consultation.

WEDNESDAY
Cataract surgery on the first eye.

THURSDAY
Recovery day and post-operative check where scheduled.

FRIDAY
Cataract surgery on the second eye and final clinical instructions..

Arrival is normally on Sunday. Depending on the surgeon’s schedule and your individual recovery, an additional final check may be arranged before you are cleared to travel home. Do not purchase flights or accommodation until your treatment dates and departure recommendation have been confirmed in writing.

From my first consultation to the final check-up, everything felt organised and reassuring. My vision is now brighter and clearer.

Mary O’Sullivan, Ireland
CATARACT SURGERY

The care I received was excellent from beginning to end. Colours look brighter, and everyday activities feel so much easier again.

Kathleen Murphy, Ireland
CATARACT SURGERY

I felt supported throughout my entire cataract surgery journey. Reading and recognising faces are easier, and the improvement has been wonderful.”

Patricia Byrne, Ireland
CATARACT SURGERY

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Why Patients from Ireland Choose SANDONIA

Experienced eye surgeons

30 Years of Surgical Experience

90,000+ Successful Eye Surgeries

100% Satisfaction

Up to 75% Cheaper

English-speaking patient support

When will my vision improve after cataract surgery?

Many patients notice an improvement within the first few days, although vision can initially be blurred or fluctuate while the eye heals. Colours may appear brighter because the cloudy natural lens has been removed. The speed of improvement depends on the cataract, the health of the eye, the lens implanted and the individual healing response.

Vision often continues to settle over several weeks. If both eyes are treated on different days, your vision may feel temporarily unbalanced between procedures. Your surgeon will explain what to expect and when you may need a new glasses prescription.

Seek urgent medical advice if you experience severe or increasing pain, sudden loss of vision, a marked increase in redness, flashes, a sudden shower of floaters or a dark curtain across your vision.

Recovery and vision improvement after cataract surgery
SANDONIA WhatClinic Patient Service Award 2025

RECOGNISED FOR SUPPORTING CATARACT PATIENTS THROUGH EVERY STAGE

WhatClinic Patient Service Award 2025 for SANDONIA

Choosing cataract surgery abroad involves more than selecting a clinic or lens. Patients also need timely answers, clear practical information and personal support before, during and after their treatment. SANDONIA is therefore proud to have received the WhatClinic Patient Service Award 2025.

The award recognises healthcare providers and patient coordinators that demonstrate a strong commitment to patient service. It is informed by the ratings, feedback and experiences shared through the WhatClinic platform.

Patients travelling from Ireland for cataract surgery often have important questions about medical suitability, lens choices, treatment costs, the length of stay in Prague and follow-up care after returning home. Our role is to make each stage understandable and carefully organised.

From reviewing your initial medical information and explaining the proposed treatment schedule to coordinating your appointments in Prague and providing post-operative guidance, we aim to ensure that you always know what to expect and who to contact.

Receiving this award is particularly meaningful because it reflects the experiences of the people we have supported. We sincerely thank our patients for their trust, their thoughtful reviews and their willingness to share their cataract surgery journeys with others

We remain committed to helping more patients from Ireland access professionally coordinated cataract treatment in Prague with transparent communication, personal assistance and continuity of support throughout their journey.

FAQ

Can I Have Cataract Surgery in Prague If I Live in Ireland?

Yes, subject to medical suitability. SANDONIA coordinates cataract treatment in Prague for international patients, including people travelling from Ireland. The process begins with an initial medical assessment based on your questionnaire, eye prescription and any available ophthalmology reports.

If the preliminary assessment indicates that treatment may be suitable, we will explain the proposed schedule, price and travel requirements. A comprehensive eye examination and an in-person consultation with the eye surgeon take place in Prague before the final treatment decision is made.

How Long Do I Need to Stay in Prague for Cataract Surgery?

For surgery on both eyes on separate days, you should normally allow approximately six nights in Prague. A typical programme includes arrival on Sunday, a detailed eye examination on Monday, surgery on the first eye on Wednesday and surgery on the second eye on Friday.

Your departure date depends on the surgeon’s schedule and your post-operative findings. We will confirm when you may safely fly home before you purchase travel. If you are travelling alone, let us know so that we can explain the available practical support.

How Soon Can I Arrange Cataract Surgery in Prague?

Availability varies during the year and treatment can only be booked after an initial medical review. Once we have received your completed medical questionnaire, current eye prescription and relevant reports, we can ask the eye surgeon to assess your information and propose suitable dates.

Do not book flights or accommodation until SANDONIA has confirmed your treatment programme in writing.

What Is the Difference Between Cataract Surgery and Lens Replacement Surgery?

Both procedures remove the natural lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens through a small incision. The surgical technique is therefore very similar.

The main difference is the reason for treatment. Cataract surgery is performed because the natural lens has become cloudy and is impairing vision. Refractive Lens Exchange, or RLE, is performed while the natural lens is still relatively clear, principally to correct a prescription and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

What Activities Should I Avoid After Cataract Surgery?

You will receive instructions tailored to your surgery. Patients are usually advised not to rub or press the eye and to avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, swimming, dusty environments and eye make-up during the early recovery period.

Light activities, walking, reading, television and computer use are often possible relatively soon if comfortable. Showering is normally permitted with care, but avoid getting water, soap or shampoo directly into the operated eye. Follow the surgeon’s instructions if they differ from general guidance.

What Are the Most Common Problems After Cataract Surgery?

Temporary blurred vision, mild irritation, watering, light sensitivity and a gritty sensation can occur as the eye heals. Some people notice glare or halos, particularly with a multifocal or trifocal lens. Dry-eye symptoms may also become more noticeable temporarily.

Less common complications include infection, significant inflammation, increased eye pressure, swelling of the macula, retinal problems or movement of the implanted lens. Posterior capsule opacification can develop months or years later and is commonly treated with a short YAG laser procedure.

When Can I Drive After Cataract Surgery?

Do not drive immediately after surgery. You should only resume driving when your surgeon or eye-care professional confirms that your vision meets the legal driving standard and you feel safe and confident behind the wheel.

The timing varies according to whether one or both eyes were treated, your vision in the untreated eye, the lens selected and your recovery. Arrange alternative transport until you have been advised that driving is appropriate.

What Is the Recovery Time After Cataract Surgery?

Many people feel comfortable with ordinary light activities within a few days, but complete healing takes longer. Vision may continue to change over several weeks, and some patients need four to eight weeks before it is fully stable.

Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for the period recommended by your surgeon. Continue all prescribed eye drops for the full course and attend any recommended follow-up examinations.

Will I Still Need Glasses After Cataract Surgery?

This depends on the lens implanted, your eye health and the outcome of surgery. A monofocal lens is usually selected to provide clear vision at one principal distance, so reading glasses or distance glasses may still be required.

Trifocal lenses are designed to provide vision at near, intermediate and distance ranges and may reduce dependence on glasses. They cannot guarantee complete spectacle independence, and some patients still need glasses for particular tasks or lighting conditions. Your surgeon will explain the realistic options after examining your eyes.

When Can I Return to Work After Cataract Surgery?

The answer depends on your occupation and recovery. Someone with a desk-based job may be able to return within several days to a week, provided vision is comfortable and work does not expose the eye to risk.

Jobs involving heavy lifting, physical strain, dust, chemicals, water or a risk of eye injury may require a longer absence. Discuss your work with the surgeon and follow the individual recommendation you receive.

What Happens If I Blink During Cataract Surgery?

You do not need to worry about blinking. A small sterile eyelid holder keeps the eyelids gently open during the procedure. Local anaesthesia helps make the eye comfortable, and the surgical team will explain where to look and guide you throughout the operation.

You may notice light, colours or movement, but you should not see the surgical details. Tell the team if you feel uncomfortable or anxious so that they can support you.

Is Cataract Surgery a Major Operation?

Cataract surgery is a surgical procedure and, like every operation, requires careful assessment and carries risks. However, it is usually performed as a day case under local anaesthesia, without an overnight hospital stay.

The operation itself commonly takes around 10–20 minutes per eye, although you will spend longer at the clinic for preparation, pupil dilation and post-operative observation.

How Are Cataracts Treated?

Surgery is the only way to remove a cataract. During modern phacoemulsification surgery, the surgeon makes a very small incision, uses ultrasound energy to divide and remove the cloudy natural lens and then inserts a clear, folded intraocular lens.

The replacement lens unfolds inside the eye and normally remains there permanently. The small incision is often self-sealing and may not require stitches. The precise technique and lens choice depend on your individual examination.

What Happens After Cataract Surgery?

After surgery, the eye may be protected with a shield or covering. You will receive prescribed eye drops and instructions explaining how to protect the eye, what activities to avoid and which symptoms require medical attention.

Vision can be blurred at first and usually improves as the eye heals. Use all medication exactly as instructed, do not rub the eye and wear the protective shield for the recommended period. After returning to Ireland, contact your Medical Consultant if you have concerns; urgent symptoms should be assessed promptly by an eye-care professional.

How Should I Prepare for Cataract Surgery?

Before surgery, you will undergo a comprehensive eye examination including measurements used to calculate the strength of the intraocular lens. Testing may include refraction, biometry, corneal measurements, retinal examination and eye-pressure assessment.

Bring your current glasses, medication list and relevant medical or eye reports. Follow the instructions you receive about contact lenses, regular medication, eating and drinking. Patients above the specified age or with relevant health conditions may also require a general medical examination or a certificate confirming fitness for surgery under local anaesthesia.

What Are the Possible Complications of Cataract Surgery?

Most cataract procedures are completed without a serious problem, but no surgery is risk-free. Possible complications include infection, inflammation, bleeding, increased eye pressure, corneal swelling, macular oedema, retinal detachment, drooping eyelid, double vision, residual prescription error or displacement of the intraocular lens.

Posterior capsule opacification, sometimes called a secondary cataract, may occur after the initial recovery and can often be treated with a brief YAG laser procedure. Rare complications can cause permanent loss of vision. Your surgeon will discuss the risks relevant to your eyes before you consent to treatment.

Seek urgent medical help after surgery if you develop severe or worsening pain, sudden deterioration of vision, increasing redness, flashes, many new floaters, a dark shadow or curtain, nausea with eye pain or any symptom that concerns you.

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