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Mr Basel Al-Ahmar

MBBS MRCOphth

Ophthalmologist

32 years of experience

Taunton, TA1 2UH

(+1 more)

2 connections in healthcare

Skill endorsed

by Dr. Derek Ho

4.97

/5

(41 reviews)

32 years of experience

Taunton, TA1 2UH

(+1 more)

2 connections in healthcare

Skill endorsed

by Dr. Derek Ho

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
Skill Endorsements
Cataract Surgery
39
Cataracts
1
Refractive Cataract Surgery
1

Contact


Expert in:

About Mr Basel Al-Ahmar

Mr Basel Al-Ahmar is an experienced Consultant Ophthalmologist, widely respected for his expertise in medical retina care and high-volume cataract surgery. A graduate of the Faculty of Medicine at Damascus University, he went on to complete his specialist ophthalmology training through the Syrian Ministry of Health before earning the Arab Board Certificate in Ophthalmology.

Since relocating to the UK in 2002, Mr Al-Ahmar has held a range of senior clinical roles across the UK, Saudi Arabia and Gibraltar, gaining broad international experience in eye care. He achieved specialist registration in ophthalmology in 2012.

Mr Al-Ahmar has performed more than 10,000 cataract surgeries, consistently delivering excellent outcomes with exceptionally low complication rates and high levels of patient satisfaction. His clinical work spans all aspects of medical retina, cataract management and laser eye procedures, where he is known for his precision, clinical judgement and patient-focused approach.

Alongside his clinical practice, he has contributed to the advancement of ophthalmology through research publications and presentations at regional and international scientific meetings. He is a Member of both the Royal College of Ophthalmologists and the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.


Subspecialties

  • Cataract Surgery

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
(2)
Skill Endorsements
(1)

Click the bar to read reviews or skill endorsements

Cataract Surgery
39
Cataracts
1
Refractive Cataract Surgery
1
Lens Replacement Surgery
1

Registered with

General Medical Council

No. 6057552

European Society Of Cataract & Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS)

No. 1009574

Royal College of Ophthalmologists

No. 5677


Education

Damascus University

Medicine

Graduated 1994


Qualifications

  • MRCOphth – London, September 2005
  • CABO (Council of Arab Board Certificate in Ophthalmology) – Damascus, March 2001
  • Medicine Doctor (Equivalent to MBBS) - University of Damascus, Syria, September 1994

Languages spoken

  • English
  • Arabic

Insurers

  • Allianz Worldwide Care
  • WPA
  • Healix Health Services
  • Vitality
  • Aviva Health

Locations

Freedom Vision - Taunton

Portland House, Deane Gate Avenue, Taunton, United Kingdom, TA1 2UH

5.00(12 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday - Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Opening hours

Monday - Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Freedom Vision - Exeter

Lancaster House, Exeter International Office Park, Exeter, United Kingdom, EX5 2HL

5.00(2 reviews)

Opening hours

Monday - Friday
Saturday
Sunday

Areas of expertise

All
Reviews
Skill Endorsements
Cataract Surgery
39
Cataracts
1
Refractive Cataract Surgery
1

Contact

Reviews

AI Review Summary

This summary was created by AI based on recent reviews

Mr Basel Al-Ahmar provides reassuring patient care. He gives clear procedure details, including lens choices, building patient confidence. Patients report excellent cataract surgery results, with many describing a comfortable and pain-free experience. Patient feedback highlights his exceptional skill and effective communication during eye procedures.

5
verified patient
12 Aug 2026

This is the second visit for my hubby to have his right eye cataract removed. Tony had a major left sided stroke in April. Which has left him with tunnel vision along with a very bad cataract. After having his left eyes cataract removed the end of July, (which was an amazing success) Mr. Basel suggested having the right one done, he explained that it would not help the tunnel vision, but it would greatly improve the peripheral vision that he had. So on Monday Tony went through the right eye procedure. Again the Team (Taunton this time) were AMAZING, soo compassionate and patient, explaining fully the procedure and awaiting his response. The only good/sad think is Tony won’t need another operation, he was sooo emotional after having his sight restored as were the team, especially Mr Basel. We cannot recommend Mr Basel and both his teams highly enough 5*+

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
17 Aug 2026
avatar-image

Thank you so much for such a heartfelt review. It has been a real privilege to look after Tony for both of his cataract operations. Seeing how much his improved vision meant to him after everything he has been through was incredibly moving for all of us. I’m delighted that both procedures have been so successful and that Tony felt supported, understood and reassured throughout. Your kind words about both teams mean a great deal to us. I wish Tony continued progress with his recovery and you both all the very best for the future.

5
verified patient
12 Aug 2026

My hubby had a left side stroke in April, so is unable to communicate and has extreme right side weakness, he has been desperate to have both his cataracts done, we decided due to NHS waiting lists we would go private as this was a great necessity to give him balance, sight and reassurance Mr Basel and his team were AMAZING!!! They showed great compassion, understanding and patience. Mr Basel and his team explained everything very clearly, and did not proceed until Tony fully understood the procedure. They let me accompany him as far as the operating theatre, where they explained fully to Tony the procedure. Mr. Basel was absolutely wonderful, I cannot speak highly enough of his compassion and patience with Tony, we would highly recommend him and his team 5* +

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
17 Aug 2026
avatar-image

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. It was a privilege to care for Tony and to support you both through his cataract surgery. I’m very pleased that we were able to make him feel safe, understood and reassured throughout the experience. Your comments mean a great deal to me and the whole team, and I wish Tony continued progress and all the very best with his recovery.

5
verified patient
12 Aug 2026

In the pre-op assessment, Mr Al-Ahmar was very helpful and informative, answering all my questions and giving me reassurance. On the day of the operation, he was very helpful and informative again. I was also impressed that he recognised that my hearing aids had been removed and was careful to ensure that he spoke clearly and was careful to face me so that I could see his lips when he spoke. The operation went well and I am pleased with the results.

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
12 Aug 2026
avatar-image

Thank you very much for your thoughtful feedback. I’m especially pleased that you felt reassured and well informed throughout your care. I’m glad I was able to make communication easier for you on the day of surgery, and most importantly, that the operation went well and you are pleased with the result. Wishing you continued excellent vision.

5
verified patient
08 Aug 2026

The medical experience was brilliant, everyone was helpful and supportive. The clear information given throughout the process was both helpful and reassuring. Thanks to all of the team.

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
09 Aug 2026
avatar-image

Thank you very much for your kind feedback. I’m delighted to hear that you felt well supported and reassured throughout your experience. I’ll be sure to share your lovely comments with the whole team. Wishing you all the very best.

5
verified patient
24 Jul 2026

I found the whole experience first class. Every one was kind, polite and helpful. I would recommend Spa Medic to anyone. During conversation with Dr Basel, we discovered a common experience in that we have both lived in the Middle East, though at different times.

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
25 Jul 2026
avatar-image

Thank you very much for your kind review. I’m delighted that you found the whole experience first class and that the team made you feel well cared for. It was also a pleasure discovering our shared connection with the Middle East. Wishing you all the very best.

5
verified patient
22 Jul 2026

Excellent experience. I was very nervous but all the staff were very kind and patient and explained every that was going to happen so by the time I got to the surgery I was relaxed. The op went really quickly and no pain or discomfort, was really good that Basil talked through everything that he was doing as he was doing it.

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
22 Jul 2026
avatar-image

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback. I’m delighted that you felt reassured and relaxed throughout your experience. It was a pleasure looking after you, and I wish you an excellent recovery and continued improvement in your vision.

5
verified patient
21 Jul 2026

courteous and professional

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
22 Jul 2026
avatar-image

Thank you. I appreciate your positive feedback

5
verified patient
01 Jul 2026

An amazing gentleman, easy to talk to, explanation of eye surgery was easy to understand. I was put at my ease. Very competent surgeon. I would highly recommend Basel Al-Ahmar.

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
01 Jul 2026
avatar-image

Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. It was a real pleasure to look after you. I'm delighted that you felt at ease and that my explanations helped you feel comfortable and well informed. Your recommendation means a great deal to me. I wish you all the very best with your recovery and your vision.

5
verified patient
01 Jul 2026

Made me feel as easy, and talked me through surgery

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
01 Jul 2026
avatar-image

Thank you so much for your lovely feedback. I'm really pleased I was able to help you feel at ease during your surgery. It was a pleasure to look after you, and I wish you a smooth recovery and many years of good vision.

5
verified patient
03 Jun 2026

I was treated with great care and attention. A good experience

Patient seen for:
Reply from Basel Al-Ahmar
04 Jun 2026
avatar-image

Thank you for your kind feedback. I am very pleased to hear that you felt well cared for and received attentive treatment throughout your experience. Providing safe, compassionate, and high-quality care is always our priority. It is wonderful to know that your experience was a positive one. Thank you for taking the time to share your comments, and I wish you all the best with your continued recovery and vision

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Skill Endorsements

16 Jun 2026
Endorsed for
Cataract Surgery
Refractive Cataract Surgery

Dr. Derek Ho

Dr. Derek Ho

Ophthalmologist
Is a colleague

FAQ

What are Mr Basel Al-Ahmar's reviews like?

Mr Basel Al-Ahmar's overall patient rating is 4.97 out of 5 stars on Doctify. This is based on 41 reviews.

What languages does Mr Basel Al-Ahmar speak?

Mr Basel Al-Ahmar speaks English and Arabic

Where is Mr Basel Al-Ahmar located?

Mr Basel Al-Ahmar primarily practices at Freedom Vision - Taunton, located at Portland House, Deane Gate Avenue, Taunton, United Kingdom, TA1 2UH
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Does Mr Basel Al-Ahmar accept new patients?

Mr Basel Al-Ahmar generally accepts new patients.

Get in touch with this specialist to enquire as a new patient