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Lawyer Anna Watson successfully secured a settlement of £187,750 for her client, a USA citizen, who suffered significant complications following cataract surgery in the UK.
The Claimant had flown from the USA specifically to undergo cataract surgery using an Eyemax Mono lens, as he was suffering from macular degeneration. This lens was expected to improve his visual acuity, help with daily living activities, and preserve his declining vision for longer. He paid privately for the procedure which took place on 6th September 2018
During the operation, the surgeon and scrub nurse encountered difficulties with the lens and delivery system, which neither had used together before. Although both had implanted many lenses previously, they had not used this particular lens and injector system and watched a video beforehand. The first lens could not be implanted due to a mechanical issue, and the second lens also failed, resulting in a small hole in the posterior chamber and the need for an anterior vitrectomy. Ultimately, a standard monofocal lens was implanted, but this meant the Claimant could no longer receive the Eyemax Mono lens that would have preserved and improved his vision long-term.
Post-operatively, the Claimant experienced cloudy vision, anxiety, and loss of confidence, significantly affecting his daily activities and his ability to work as a self-employed business owner. He has since required antidepressants, mobility training, and now relies on a guide dog, having had to give up his business.
Anna obtained expert ophthalmology evidence confirming that the complications were caused by the surgeon’s and surgical team’s lack of experience with this particular lens and injector system. Further care and psychiatric reports were obtained to support the Claimant’s loss of vision, independence, and quality of life.
Despite the surgeon denying liability and attributing the issues to the general risks of surgery and the scrub nurse’s role, our team successfully presented a strong case, including audio recordings of post-op discussions, expert joint statements, and forensic accounting evidence to demonstrate the Claimant’s financial losses.
After careful preparation and negotiation, including a Joint Settlement Meeting in December 2025, the case was resolved with a settlement of £187,750, providing the Claimant with compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial impact of the surgical complications.
