Eye & Vision in Southampton

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Opticians and eye care in the UK

Eye care ranges from routine sight tests and glasses at high-street opticians to medical and surgical eye care at ophthalmology clinics. Optometrists and dispensing opticians are registered with the General Optical Council (GOC); eye surgeons are doctors registered with the GMC, and clinics performing eye surgery in England are also CQC-registered.

NHS and private sight tests

NHS-funded sight tests are available to certain groups — including children, people over 60, and those on qualifying benefits or with certain conditions such as diabetes or glaucoma. Others pay privately for an eye test. Glasses and contact lenses are generally paid for privately, though NHS optical vouchers help with costs for those who are eligible.

Types of eye care

  • Opticians / optometrists — sight tests, glasses, contact lenses, and screening for eye conditions.
  • Ophthalmology clinics — medical and surgical care for cataracts, glaucoma and other conditions.
  • Laser & lens surgery — refractive procedures to reduce dependence on glasses (private).

Looking after your eyes

Regular sight tests can detect not only changes in vision but early signs of eye disease and some general health conditions. If you have sudden vision loss, eye pain or flashes and floaters, seek urgent care — call NHS 111 or, in an emergency, 999. This page is information only and not medical advice.

Last updated: 2026-07-22

Frequently Asked Questions

NHS-funded sight tests are available to certain groups, including children, people aged 60 and over, and those on qualifying benefits or with conditions such as diabetes or glaucoma. Others pay privately. Ask the optician whether you qualify.
Many people should have a sight test about every two years, but your optometrist may recommend more frequent tests depending on your age, eye health and any conditions. Regular tests can also detect early signs of eye and general health problems.
Yes. Optometrists and dispensing opticians are registered with the General Optical Council (GOC). Eye surgeons are doctors registered with the GMC, and clinics performing eye surgery in England are also registered with the Care Quality Commission.
Sudden loss of vision, eye pain, or new flashes and floaters should be checked urgently — contact an optician, call NHS 111, or in an emergency call 999. This is not a substitute for professional advice.

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