Premium vision correction lens implantation
Vision correction lens surgery at Saint James Clinic
Vision correction lens surgery provides a lifelong solution that helps you get rid of glasses for both near and far vision. After a short, gentle procedure, you will truly no longer need glasses.
Vision correction lens surgery is the most commonly performed eye procedure in the world, with millions of successful cases worldwide.
Both near and far vision with a single surgery
Lasting, lifelong results
Quick, painless procedure lasting 20–30 minutes
Who do we recommend vision correction lens surgery for?
Vision correction lens implantation is primarily recommended for people over the age of 45, when laser eye surgery no longer provides sharp vision at all distances. This solution offers lifelong independence from glasses.
We recommend it if:
- Are over 45 years old and would like to see clearly at near, intermediate and far distances without glasses
- Having difficulty adjusting to bifocal or multifocal glasses
- You don't want to constantly switch between near and far glasses
- You are looking for a durable, premium solution that will ensure sharp vision in the long term
Important to know over 45 years of age: Due to the natural aging of the lens of the eye, the ability to focus up close gradually decreases. This is why patients at this age may need reading glasses after surgery, even if they can see clearly at a distance.
When is vision correction lens surgery not recommended?
For safety reasons, the procedure may not be possible. In all cases, the decision about surgery will be made by a doctor after a personal suitability assessment.
Most common reasons for exclusion:
- Severe retinal abnormalities
- Some autoimmune diseases
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding period
- Previous serious eye injury
- If you only use reading glasses
If you are unsure whether treatment is right for you, a detailed eye examination will help you determine your options. There is no reason to worry if there are no exclusion criteria, ICL artificial lens implantation we recommend.
Process
This is how vision correction lens surgery works step by step
Every step of the lens surgery is pre-planned and safe. We will guide you through the entire process, from the eligibility assessment to post-operative check-ups, so you know exactly what to expect.
The surgery is always preceded by a detailed, painless examination. During this, our specialists check the general condition of the eye, the thickness of the cornea, the intraocular pressure and the retina. Based on the results, they determine whether you are suitable for the procedure and which type of artificial lens will provide the best result.
Period: ≈ 60–90 minutes
More information
Test items:
- Accurate measurement of diopter, cylinder, and corneal thickness.
- Tear film and pupil examination (with pupil dilation).
- Slit lamp examination of the anterior segment and fundus (pupil dilation with eye drops).
- Medical consultation: discussing results, answering questions.
- Artificial lens design
Practical information:
- It is recommended to remove soft contact lenses 3 days before the examination, and hard lenses 3 weeks before.
- Blurred vision may occur for 2-3 hours due to dilation; avoid driving during this period.
- Bring your previous eye tests with you, if you have any.
Output:
- A clear yes/no decision about surgery or an alternative suggestion.
- Personalized treatment plan and timing.
Vision correction lens surgery is completely painless with local anesthetic eye drops. Before the surgery, our doctors will discuss the steps, benefits, and potential risks of the procedure in detail. You will receive written information and a surgical consent form, which must be signed on the day of the surgery.
Period: ≈ 15–20 minutes for both eyes
More information
Steps in brief:
- Preparation, disinfection, application of eyelid splint
- Making a small incision of 2–3 mm on the cornea
- Removal of the natural lens of the eye using ultrasound waves
- Implanting the premium intraocular lens into the lens case
- Short rest, then the patient can go home with an escort
Please note this:
- Do not use makeup, perfume, or hair products containing alcohol for 3-4 days before surgery.
- We recommend that you avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours before and 48 hours after surgery.
- Bring quality sunglasses due to light sensitivity.
- Arrange for transportation home.
Recovery after corrective lens surgery is quick and predictable. Most patients experience sharper vision the day after surgery, but full visual acuity gradually stabilizes over the next few days. Mild blurring, light sensitivity, or tearing may occur during the initial period. These are natural, temporary phenomena.
Period: ≈ 24-72 hours
More information
The first 24–72 hours:
- Tearing, stinging, and sensitivity to light may occur for a few hours — this is normal.
- Rest with your eyes closed for 3–4 hours after surgery.
- Use the eye drops prescribed by your doctor according to protocol.
- Don't rub your eyes.
- Screen: with short segments, frequent blinking, artificial tears.
Returning to daily routine after lens surgery:
- Work: for office work usually after 2–3 days.
- Driving: typically after the first check-up, with medical approval.
- Swimming/sauna: typically recommended after 5-6 weeks.
(Of course, everyone heals at a different rate, so always follow your doctor's instructions.)
Follow-up examinations are key to safety and long-term success. These are short, painless check-ups where our doctors check the condition of your IOL, the healing process, and answer any questions you may have.
Period: ≈ 1-3 months
More information
Mandatory controls:
- 24-hour control: On the first day, we check the implantation of the artificial lens and the condition of the eye.
- 5–6 weeks: long-term final examination, confirmation of the final results.
Our doctors are available throughout your recovery, answering any questions you may have and adjusting your aftercare plan if necessary.
Results
What results can you expect after vision correction lens surgery?
Intraocular lens implantation is one of the safest and most common eye procedures in the world. The patient's natural lens is replaced with a modern, custom-made artificial lens that provides sharp, stable vision at all distances.
Safe result, long term
Lens surgery not only provides a new vision experience for a few years, but also offers a safe, long-term solution to replacing glasses and contact lenses.
- Long-lasting, lifelong results: the implanted artificial lens does not age or deteriorate, thus ensuring sharp vision in the long term.
- Complete glasses independence: with premium (trifocal, extended-focus) lenses, most patients do not need glasses for either distance or near.
What did our patients experience after treatment?
Rapid vision improvement immediately
Vision is sharper on the day of surgery and stabilizes within a few days.
Sharp vision day and night
The special optical design of modern lenses provides a clearer image, even in low light conditions.
Cataract prevention
By removing the lens, the subsequent development of cataracts is ruled out.
Vision correction lens surgery is a safe and gentle procedure that provides lifelong results. The most modern lenses can not only improve visual acuity, but also prevent the development of cataracts.
Dr. Kristóf Perényi, chief physician and clinic director
Reviews
Our patients' experiences with lens surgeries
The most reassuring feedback comes not from numbers, but from patients' experiences. Learn how the freedom to see clearly - without glasses, in safety - has changed their daily lives.
Imre Csuja, a Hungarian actor who won the Jászai Mari Award, underwent vision correction lens surgery at our clinic.
Gábor Zsoldos “Dedy”, the drummer of Hungária and later Dolly Roll, and his partner Zsófia Fürtös, a psychologist, both decided to have their vision corrected.
At Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center, not only technology but also care is top-notch. Our doctors and the entire team work every step of the way to ensure you enjoy clear vision safely and with satisfaction.
Personalized treatment
How is vision correction lens surgery performed?
The essence of the procedure is to replace the natural, aged lens of the eye with a modern artificial lens. This artificial lens takes over the role of the original lens: it refracts and focuses light on the retina, thus providing a sharp image at all distances..
The implanted artificial lens is durable, does not wear out or deteriorate, so it truly provides a lifelong solution for clear vision.
The world of modern contact lenses: sharp vision in every situation
The key to the success of lens surgery is choosing the right artificial lens. At our clinic, you can choose from several premium solutions that provide a long-lasting and natural vision experience.
Monofocal intraocular lens
Provides sharp vision at a specific distance (usually far away). Simple, reliable solution, may require glasses for reading.
Extended focus lens
It provides better vision at both near and intermediate distances, for example when using a monitor. A natural viewing experience, fewer compromises.
Multifocal / trifocal intraocular lens
It provides sharp vision at near, intermediate and far distances. It helps you to completely abandon glasses and is a lifelong solution.
Toric intraocular lens
It is used to correct astigmatism. When combined with other types of intraocular lenses, it provides complete correction.
Focus on safety
Safety and risks of vision correction lens surgery
Vision correction lens surgery is the most commonly performed eye procedure in the world, with millions of successful surgeries performed annually. At our clinic, we use only premium CE and FDA-approved lenses, under strict hygiene and surgical protocols.
Like all eye surgery, there may be temporary side effects, but these are typically mild and manageable.
Occasional, temporary symptoms may include:
- Dry eyes or tearing
- Sensitivity to light, glare at night
- Short-term foreign body sensation
- Slight blurring in the first few days of recovery
What we do for safety:
- Modern diagnostic and surgical equipment
- Experienced ophthalmologists who have performed thousands of surgeries
- Strict hygiene and surgical protocols
- Regular check-ups until full recovery
If you have any questions or concerns, our doctors will discuss your options in detail. It is important to us that you make your decision with complete safety and confidence.
Prices and financing
Transparent lens surgery prices, no hidden costs
At Saint James Clinic, it is important that vision correction lens surgery is not only safe but also financially feasible. That is why we offer transparent prices and multiple financing options for all our treatments.
The prices include treatment and mandatory check-ups.
Single-focal intraocular lens
320,000 HUF / piece
New generation artificial lens
369,000 HUF / piece
Extended focus lens
549,000 HUF / piece
Multifocal / trifocal intraocular lens
558,000 HUF / piece
Discounts
- For our rural patients 5000 HUF travel allowance
- With student ID 10,000 HUF extra discount
Financing
At Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center, it is important to us that treatment can be planned financially, which is why we offer several financing solutions:
Instalment payment
Már From 13 333 HUF / month / week, with a term of 12 months
- Initial section depending on the chosen lens: 160,000–284,500 HUF / piece
- One-time contract fee: 30 000 HUF
Health fund settlement
Available for the full amount
For detailed information, see Instalment payment menu.
About us
Our doctors and team - professional experience, personal care
Lens surgery is performed at Saint James Vision and Aesthetic Centre by experienced ophthalmologists who bring their domestic and international experience to the service of our patients. In addition to professional knowledge, personal attention and care are also our core values.
Dr. Kristóf Perényi, chief physician and clinic director
He is an ophthalmologist who graduated from Semmelweis University and acquired the most modern surgical techniques through training abroad.
Mission: to provide a safe, natural vision experience for all of its patients.
Security and support throughout the entire process
The key to success is not only the expertise of the doctor, but also the cooperation of the entire team – from assistants to coordinators to colleagues performing follow-up examinations. This is how we ensure that all our patients feel safe and supported during surgery.
Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions about vision correction lens surgery
We have collected the most frequently asked questions to help you clearly understand the benefits, procedure, and recovery of the surgery.
How is lens surgery different from laser eye surgery?
The laser changes the shape of the cornea, while the lens surgery replaces the eye's own lens with a modern artificial lens. This is a lifelong solution and also prevents the development of cataracts.
Is the procedure painful?
No. The surgery is completely painless with local anesthetic eye drops. You may feel a slight pressure sensation, but there is no pain.
How long does the surgery take?
For one eye, it takes about 10–15 minutes, and both eyes can be operated on in the same day.
When can I expect clear vision?
Visual acuity improves on the day of surgery and stabilizes within a few days.
Do you really no longer need glasses?
With premium (trifocal, extended-focus) lenses, most patients achieve complete independence from glasses. However, reading glasses may be required to read very small print – this is caused by the natural aging of the eye, not a defect in the surgery.
What happens if cataracts develop later?
During lens surgery, the natural lens is removed, thus eliminating the chance of cataract formation.
What side effects may occur?
Temporary light sensitivity, tearing, and blurred vision may occur in the first few days, but these will quickly disappear.
Which contact lens is best for me?
This can always be decided based on the results of a personal examination and your lifestyle. The doctor will select the appropriate type after computer measurements and a detailed consultation.
Is there an option to pay in instalments?
Yes, the cost of the surgery can be paid in monthly installments that can be planned in advance. Health insurance settlement is also available.
Book an appointment
Take the first step towards insight with us.
The first step in vision correction lens surgery is a detailed, painless suitability assessment. This will give you an accurate answer as to whether the procedure is right for you.
Online appointment booking for aptitude test
Complete an online aptitude test
We provide the opportunity to complete an online suitability test, during which you can find out which type of treatment is the most ideal choice for you.
The test will take no more than 5 minutes to complete.
- 1034 Budapest. Bécsi út 68-84.
- recepcio@stjameshospital.hu
- +36 1 788 2927
Contact
Location and access to Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center
Saint James Vision and Aesthetics Center is located at 1034 Budapest, Bécsi Street 68-84. You can find it in an easily accessible location.
Whether you are coming from Budapest or from another part of the country, we welcome you in a discreet and premium environment, in comfortable and relaxed conditions.
Access and parking:
- Private parking in the clinic's underground garage (prior arrangement required, parking is subject to a fee)
- Easily accessible by public transport (bus and tram stops nearby)
- We provide detailed guidance and travel assistance for those arriving from outside the city.
