Opthalmic Negligence

Eye conditions require highly skilled diagnosis and treatment. When mistakes occur during ophthalmic care, the results can be devastating, ranging from partial vision loss to permanent blindness.

Our specialist medical negligence solicitors help patients and families affected by negligent eye care secure justice, compensation, and access to ongoing support.

How Ophthalmic Negligence Claims Can Arise

Eye-related medical negligence can occur at any stage of care, including:

• Delayed or missed diagnosis – conditions such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, or ocular tumours not detected promptly.

• Surgical errors – mistakes during cataract surgery, LASIK, or corneal transplants.

• Medication or treatment errors – incorrect dosing of eye drops, steroids, or other ocular medications.

• Post-operative care failures – lack of monitoring for complications after surgery.

• Birth-related eye injuries – trauma or oxygen deprivation affecting a newborn’s vision.

• Hospital-acquired infections – infections following eye surgery or injections due to poor hygiene or monitoring.

Who Can You Bring a Claim Against

In ophthalmic negligence claims, liability usually falls on the healthcare provider responsible for the care. This may include:

• NHS Trusts

• Private Hospitals, Clinicians and Clinics – for care received privately.

• Opticians

• GPs or community healthcare providers

Your solicitor will identify the correct defendant(s) to ensure that any claim is directed to the party legally responsible for the negligence.

Consequences of Ophthalmic Negligence

The impact of negligent eye care can be profound:

• Partial or total vision loss – permanent reduction in sight or complete blindness.

• Reduced quality of life – affecting independence, mobility, employment, and daily activities.

• Physical complications – chronic pain, eye strain, or secondary conditions such as retinal scarring.

• Emotional and psychological effects – stress, anxiety, depression, or loss of confidence.

• Long-term care needs – adaptations to home, assistive devices, or ongoing medical support.

Time Limits for Ophthalmic Negligence Claims

• Generally, you have 3 years from the date of negligence or from the date you became aware of it to start a claim.

• For children, the 3-year period begins at 18 years of age.

• For those lacking mental capacity, no limitation applies until capacity is regained.

• If a patient has died, the estate or dependants will have 3 years from the date of death or knowledge of negligence.

Why Choose Us?

We offer specialist expertise in ophthalmic negligence claims, including complex surgical and diagnostic errors, with flexible funding options including “no win, no fee” arrangements where suitable.

Speak to Us Today

Contact us for a free, confidential consultation to understand your options and secure the support and compensation you deserve.