Initial consultation price:
£200
Your private health insurance
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About Colm McAlinden
Personal Profile
About Mr Colm McAlinden
Mr Colm McAlinden is a highly experienced Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon with a special interest in cataract and corneal conditions. He sees patients at Werndale Hospital for cataract surgery and other ophthalmic consultations. Mr McAlinden is known for his calm, compassionate approach to patient care.
He accepts both self-pay and insured patients. All patients must be referred by their opticians or GP.
Why Choose Mr McAlinden?
Mr McAlinden combines clinical expertise with an approachable, patient-first attitude. His care is guided by the latest scientific advancements, and he ensures every patient feels informed, comfortable, and confident throughout their journey. He is a specialist in cataract and corneal surgery, and is highly dedicated to research and improvement. He is known for his outstanding research credentials, and has global recognition for his accomplishments.
Alongside his private practice at Werndale Hospital, Mr McAlinden also works with the NHS at Cwm Taf Morgannwg. Patients from Carmarthen, South Wales, West Wales, and beyond choose Mr McAlinden for his exceptional expertise in cataract and corneal surgery, as well as his internationally recognised research and leadership in the field. Known for his friendly and reassuring manner, Mr McAlinden takes the time to carefully explain treatment options, ensuring every patient feels informed, comfortable, and confident in his care.
Education, Training and Academic Contributions
Mr McAlinden completed his medical degree and ophthalmology training in Wales, achieving Fellowship status with both the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and the European Board of Ophthalmology. To further his subspecialist expertise, he completed advanced training in corneal surgery at the Queen Victoria Hospital in East Grinstead, home to one of the UK's leading Corneo Plastic Units and Eye Banks.
His training has included time at internationally recognised centres of excellence, including Massachusetts Eye and Ear Hospital in Boston, affiliated with Harvard Medical School, and Moorfields Eye Hospital in London. Alongside his clinical training, Mr McAlinden holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education from the University of Cambridge and a Certificate in Laser and Refractive Surgery from the Royal College of Ophthalmologists. He is also a Fellow of the World College of Refractive Surgery and Visual Sciences.
Mr McAlinden has a strong academic background and is deeply committed to research and innovation in eye care. He holds three advanced research degrees: a Master of Science in Cataract and Refractive Surgery, a Doctor of Medicine, and a Doctor of Philosophy. He completed a post-doctoral research fellowship at Flinders University in Australia, further developing his expertise in clinical research.
With over 190 scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals, Mr McAlinden is widely recognised for his research contributions. His work is frequently referred to, and he has authored several book chapters. He is regularly invited to speak at national and international conferences and currently holds Visiting Professor roles at both the Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University in Shanghai and Wenzhou Medical University in China. His ongoing research helps drive improvements in surgical outcomes and ensures his clinical practice is guided by the latest evidence and technologies.
Leadership and Professional Roles
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Treasurer, British Society for Refractive Surgery (BSRS)
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PROM Advisor, National Ophthalmology Database (NOD) Cataract Audit
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Editorial Board Member for 7 international journals
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Supervisor of PhD students at Cardiff University, currently focusing on corneal cross-linking and patient-reported outcomes
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Trainer and mentor for NHS junior doctors
Qualifications
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FWCRS – World College of Refractive Surgery & Visual Sciences
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PG Cert (Med Ed) – University of Cambridge
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CertLRS – Royal College of Ophthalmologists
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FRCOphth – Royal College of Ophthalmologists
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FEBO – European Board of Ophthalmology
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PhD, MD, MSc – University of Ulster & Swansea University
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MB BCh, BSc (Hons) – College of Medicine, Swansea University / Cardiff University
What do patients say about Mr Colm McAlinden?
For independent patient reviews about Mr McAlinden, visit: iwantgreatcare.org/doctors/mr-colm-mcalinden
"He was great. Genuine, caring and passionate about his work. The pre op talk helped me understand what to expect and what we would achieve.
The quiet efficiency of all the staff impressed me. Werndale is a warm welcoming hospital. Where thoroughness, politeness and warmth makes everything easy and comfortable .Thanks again to Mr McAlinden and the team for their efficiency and endeavour." - January 2025
"I cannot speak highly enough of Mr Colm McAlinden. I felt extremely anxious about having cataract surgery but Mr McAlinden put me at my ease from the first consultation. He took time to explain the procedure to me and patiently answered my questions. On the day of the operation itself, he was kind and caring throughout. He provided lots of reassurance during the surgery and checked that I was comfortable at all times. The following day I received a phonecall from Mr McAlinden to check that all was well and to answer any questions I might have. Mr Colm McAlinden is a true professional and I could not have asked for better care from him and his team. I am delighted with the result of my surgery and will be returning later this year for removal of a cataract from the other eye!" - February 2025
Clinical Interests
- Cataract surgery
- YAG laser capsulotomy
- Corneal disease management
- Refractive and Laser Eye Surgery
- Keratoconus Treatment and Cross-Linking Therapy
- Medical Education and Training
Professional Memberships
- Royal College of Ophthalmologists
- General Medical Council
- European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS)
