By Mr Aris Konstantopoulos, Consultant Ophthalmologist & Corneal Specialist

When most people think about laser eye surgery, they focus on the personal benefits: no more fumbling for glasses in the morning or carrying contact lens solutions when travelling. But there is another compelling reason to consider, one that is growing more relevant each year. Laser eye surgery is not just a vision correction solution. It is also an environmentally conscious decision and a more sustainable way to live.

Rethinking Everyday Habits

It may be surprising to find out just how much waste is generated from a lifetime of contact lens use. Daily disposable lenses, blister packs, saline bottles, cases, and solution caps all contribute to microplastic pollution. Most of these materials are difficult or impossible to recycle and often end up in landfills or waterways.

As a pollutant, microplastics may be harmful to the environment, animals and our own health. They do not break down naturally into smaller molecules and often end up consumed by marine animals and being present in the food we eat. Water, especially bottled water, has been found to have a high microplastic content. Though it is difficult to know at this stage what damage these microplastics may cause, toxins found in plastics have been linked to lung diseases and cancer.

Even glasses may have a larger environmental footprint than expected. Their manufacturing, transport, and packaging require energy and resources. Over time, most people go through multiple pairs due to breakage or prescription changes. Though efforts are being put into manufacturing with recyclable materials, currently most frames are made from non-recyclable or non-biodegradable materials.

Laser eye surgery can be a more sustainable alternative. It removes the need for ongoing plastic packaging, shipping, and replacements associated with glasses and contact lenses.

A Greener Approach Without Compromise

Choosing laser eye surgery allows you to reduce your environmental impact while improving your quality of life. At ClarisVision, we offer LASIK, SMILE, ASA (LASEK) and PRESBYOND LASIK procedures that provide long-term vision correction with minimal waste.

By investing in a more permanent solution for your vision, you may be able to break the cycle of single-use plastic consumption tied to traditional eyewear. The environmental benefits include:

Less plastic waste from contact lenses and their packaging
Lower energy usage from glasses and contact lens production and delivery
Reduced non-recyclable materials entering landfill or oceans
Fewer carbon emissions from international shipping and manufacturing chains

This shift can be particularly meaningful for individuals who are actively trying to make greener lifestyle choices in other areas of their lives, such as reducing single-use plastics, recycling more mindfully, or switching to renewable energy sources at home.

Sustainable laser eye surgery is a practical, eco-friendly choice for those seeking long-term clarity and conscious living. Other options for becoming more eco-friendly include:

Buying frames made from recyclable materials
Updating the lenses only and keeping the same spectacles frame
Buying from more eco-conscious brands
Disposing of contact lenses in the normal bin rather than flushing down the sink or toilet
Using the ACUVUE® Contact Lens Recycling Programme that is provided in collaboration with many Opticians, including Boots Opticians; e.g. in all Boots Opticians you can find a Zero Waste Box™ to dispose of your used contact lenses and blister packs

A More Connected, Conscious Lifestyle

Laser eye surgery does more than correct vision. It helps people reclaim the simplicity and immediacy of daily life. Many of my patients share how the ability to see without reaching for glasses or managing contact lenses makes them feel more present and engaged.

You can read your child a bedtime story without interruption, go swimming without worrying about lenses, or wake up and enjoy a sunrise without reaching for the bedside table. These small wins help you participate more fully in the world around you.

And when your vision care choices align with your values, whether environmental, practical, or lifestyle-driven, that sense of alignment adds to the satisfaction of the outcome.

Is Sustainable Laser Eye Surgery Right for You?

Every treatment decision should be made with careful consideration. At ClarisVision, we begin with a thorough consultation to evaluate your eye health, lifestyle, and vision goals.

If you are suitable for laser vision correction, you are not only investing in your eyesight. You are making a statement about the kind of future you want to live in. One that values clarity, sustainability, and meaningful choices.

Laser eye surgery is not just about clearer vision. It is about living in a way that is more in tune with your surroundings and less reliant on disposable solutions.

Let’s Talk

If you are considering laser eye surgery and want to explore how it can fit your values and lifestyle, I would invite you to book a free, no-obligation screening at ClarisVision. You can also call our team directly at 02381 812281 to learn more.

Let us help you see clearly, live confidently, and participate more fully in the world around you.

Learn more about LASIK, PRESBYOND LASIK or SMILE to discover which sustainable treatment may be right for you.

#lifewithoutlenses

Choosing the Right Surgeon

At ClarisVision, all procedures and consultations are personally carried out by myself. I am a consultant ophthalmologist who specialises in laser eye surgery, lens replacement surgery and corneal surgery. In our clinic we prioritise precision, safety, and personal care at every step.

When choosing a clinic, we recommend checking the surgeon’s credentials, including:

Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth)
Inclusion on the GMC Specialist Register for Ophthalmology
Subspecialty Fellowship level training in corneal and/or refractive surgery
Proven track record in performing a range of vision correction procedures
Surgeon and clinic aftercare and responsibility for dealing with complications

Why Choose ClarisVision?

When it comes to your eyes, you want care that’s not only expert, but personal.

At ClarisVision, we provide:

👁️ Care led by Consultant Ophthalmologist and Corneal Specialist, Mr. Aris Konstantopoulos
🧬 Advanced diagnostics and laser technology for superior precision
🫶 A personalised approach to your vision correction
🌍 A warm, patient-first experience trusted by hundreds in the UK

We’re more than a clinic – we’re your partner in clear vision for life.

Real Stories, Real Impact

“Aris is everything I hoped for and more when going into this process. I’m 3 days post op now and already have better vision than prior. Nothing but good stuff to say, I’d highly recommend Aris.”
— Michael, 42, Engineer

“Mr Konstantopoulos was reassuring, kind and oh so efficient. Thank you. My vision improved almost immediately and I was confident to take the car out the next day and I can read again.”
— Terry, 53, Creative Professional

Read more about what our patients had to say about their experience.