Pensioner avoids losing his driving licence after undergoing eye surgery

Keen woodworker and engraver Rod Newman is back enjoying his retirement after he had sight-saving surgery at a Plymouth eye clinic.

The 64-year-old was suffering with cataracts in both his eyes with the condition deteriorating for the last five years. With blurred vision and being told he was close to losing his driving licence if he didn’t act, Rod attended Newmedica’s clinic in Plymouth.  

Over time, cataracts can become worse and start to interfere with vision, and this blurred vision can lead to blindness if not treated.

Following his referral, Rod was seen quickly at the Plymouth eye clinic and had his first surgery less than a week after his initial appointment.

A very nervous patient, Rod felt he had no other option but to proceed with surgery as he didn’t want to lose his driving independence.

Rod said: ‘I’m extremely grateful to the Newmedica team for how quickly they arranged my surgery following my referral. I was exceptionally nervous beforehand and had been putting off having surgery for as long as I could. However, as soon as I found out I was on the borderline of losing my licence, I knew I had to act, and I only wish I’d done it sooner.

“I found the Plymouth team professional, supportive and they really helped to ease my nerves during every step of the process – one of the team even held my hand during the procedure to make sure I felt calm and comfortable.

“I enjoy woodwork and engraving items, which requires good sight, and the improvement to my sight whilst carrying out these intricate tasks after my procedure has been remarkable. I would urge anyone considering having cataracts surgery to do it, as it feels like you’re in a new world afterwards and it will truly be worth it.”

Nick Edmeades, the consultant who carried out Rod’s surgery, said: “I’m delighted that we were able to arrange Rod’s operation so quickly, as he was suffering from cataracts in both his eyes and if left untreated, could have impacted his sight permanently. We wish Rod all the best with his recovery and are happy we could help to ease his nerves and make the experience as comfortable for him as possible.”

“We have a fantastic clinic team on hand to provide their expertise and advice, and we are committed to provide quality care to all our patients. We look forward to helping more people in need of cataracts surgery in the future.”

Newmedica is a leading provider of NHS funded and private Ophthalmology services, founded by a former eye patient and leading ophthalmologist. Newmedica is dedicated to transforming the patient experience and providing exceptional care, including using the best quality replacement cataracts lens available.

Further information about Newmedica Plymouth is available at Plymouth | Newmedica or by calling 01752 421 622.