Optegra UK

Optegra is a specialist provider of ophthalmic services, operating a network of dedicated eye hospitals and clinics across the United Kingdom. The company was established in 2007, with its first hospital opening in Surrey in 2008. It was founded by Ned Johnson III, the then Chairman and CEO of investment firm Fidelity, who, after undergoing a life-changing eye surgery, wanted to make high-quality eye care more widely and affordably available.

Optegra provides a comprehensive range of eye care treatments for both private and publicly funded patients. Its core services include cataract surgery, laser eye surgery (such as LASIK, LASEK, and ReLEx SMILE), lens replacement, and implantable contact lenses. The company also treats medical conditions like Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma. Optegra serves patients through referrals from optometrists, GPs, and directly for self-pay procedures. A significant part of its business model involves partnerships with the UK's National Health Service (NHS) to help reduce waiting lists, particularly for cataract surgery. Revenue is generated from both private patient fees, for which financing options are available, and payments from the NHS for treating public patients.

The company emphasizes high clinical standards, employing NHS-trained consultant ophthalmic surgeons and investing in advanced surgical technologies. It was the first national eye care group in the UK to offer LENSAR femtosecond laser technology across all its hospitals. Optegra also has a dedicated research and development division, Optegra Eye Sciences, to foster innovation and assess new technologies and treatments. Since its inception, the firm has expanded its presence to numerous locations across the UK and has treated over a million eyes. Dr. Peter Byloos was appointed CEO in 2018 to steer the company towards greater profitability and strategic focus. In May 2025, it was announced that Optegra was acquired by EssilorLuxottica.

Keywords: ophthalmic services, eye care provider, cataract surgery, laser eye surgery, lens replacement, vision correction, NHS partner, private eye hospitals, glaucoma treatment, AMD treatment, ReLEx SMILE, ophthalmology, consultant-led care, eye health, refractive surgery, medical eye treatments, implantable contact lens, eye surgery clinics, vision care, ophthalmic surgeons