Cataract Surgery Cost in India

Introduction 

Are you worried about the high cost of cataract surgery?

India offers an affordable solution for patients seeking cataract surgery at much lower prices compared to Western countries. 

Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest advancements, such as Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS), providing high-quality care for patients. 

By choosing India, you'll receive world-class treatment from experienced ophthalmologists at a fraction of the cost, making India an ideal destination for affordable cataract surgery.

Why Cataract Surgery is Performed?

Cataract surgery is performed when your vision deteriorates to the extent that it hinders activities such as driving and reading. It is an outpatient procedure, so you can return home on the same day.

Cost Breakdown

The cost of cataract surgery in India is much lower than in Western countries, even when considering the expenses for diagnostic tests, surgeons’ fees, hospital stays, and personalized care. This makes India a top destination for affordable and high-quality cataract surgery.

Factors that Affect the Cost of Cataract Surgery in India

• Type of Surgery
  The type of surgery plays a big role in the overall cost. Traditional cataract surgery, which involves manual incisions and standard intraocular lenses (IOLs), is usually more affordable than advanced options like laser-assisted cataract surgery or premium IOL implants.
• Hospital Infrastructure
  The quality of care and the infrastructure of the hospital also impact the cost of the procedure. Hospitals with better facilities may charge more.
• Surgeon's Expertise
  The experience and expertise of the surgeon matter. Highly skilled and renowned ophthalmologists may charge higher fees for their services, which can increase the overall cost.
• Preoperative Evaluation and Diagnostic Tests
  Costs for preoperative evaluations, such as eye exams and diagnostic tests like biometry and corneal tomography, will add to the total cost of the procedure.
• Postoperative Care
  Follow-up appointments, medications, and postoperative care also affect the overall cost of cataract surgery.
• Advanced Surgical Techniques
  Advanced techniques like laser cataract surgery typically cost more than traditional surgical methods.

Country-wise cost comparison of cataract surgery in India

◾Key Takeaways

✅ Affordable Treatment Cost: India offers affordable cataract surgery for patients, providing the latest advancements and personalized treatment plans at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries.

✅ Advanced Medical Technology: India is equipped with cutting-edge technology to treat cataracts, including Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS), Premium Intraocular Lenses (IOLs), Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT), Minimally Invasive Techniques, and the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cataract surgery. These advancements ensure safer and more personalized care for patients.

Quality of Care in India for Cataract Surgery

India offers high-quality care for patients seeking cataract surgery, combining advanced technologies with highly skilled ophthalmologists. Key factors contributing to this high standard of care include:

• India has some of the best ophthalmologists with extensive experience in performing cataract surgeries, ensuring successful outcomes.
• Indian hospitals are equipped with the latest technologies, such as Premium Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) and Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS), providing precise and safe treatment.
• Many hospitals in India are accredited by international bodies like JCI and NABH, ensuring they adhere to global standards for patient safety and care.

Types of Cataract Surgery

There are three main types of cataract surgery:

1. Small Incision/Phacoemulsification: This is the most commonly recommended type of cataract surgery. The surgeon uses a tiny scalpel to make a small incision in the cornea. A probe is then inserted, which emits high-frequency sound waves to break up the natural lens. The broken lens is then removed through the incision.
2. Extracapsular Surgery: In this type, the doctor makes a larger incision to remove the clouded lens. Stitches may be required afterward to close the incision.
3. Laser-Guided Surgery: This method uses a laser instead of a scalpel for the incision, making it a more precise form of phacoemulsification. It is also part of the extracapsular cataract removal process.

Best Doctors for Cataract Surgery in India

India’s top ophthalmologists are highly skilled, internationally trained, and have received prestigious awards. They are committed to providing precise and high-quality care to patients seeking cataract surgery in India.

Best Hospitals for Cataract Surgery in India

India’s top hospitals are known for their world-class facilities and advanced medical infrastructure. Equipped with the latest technologies, these hospitals ensure safe and precise cataract treatments for patients.

Technologies Used in Cataract Surgery in India

Advancements in cataract surgery have elevated the field of ophthalmology, providing better visual outcomes and improving patients' quality of life. From FLACS to premium IOLs, these innovations have made cataract surgery safer, more effective, and tailored to individual needs.

Advancements include:

Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS)

This technique represents a breakthrough in cataract surgery. It uses femtosecond lasers to perform key steps in cataract removal, enhancing precision and predictability.

Premium Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)

Premium IOLs have transformed cataract surgery by addressing vision issues like presbyopia and astigmatism. Unlike traditional monofocal IOLs, premium lenses—such as multifocal, accommodating, and toric IOLs—offer solutions for various vision problems, not just distance vision.

Ocular Coherence Tomography (OCT)

OCT is a non-invasive imaging technology that provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the eye. It is now essential in cataract surgery for preoperative planning and postoperative assessment.

Minimally Invasive Techniques

Minimally invasive techniques, such as Microincision Cataract Surgery (MICS) and bimanual microincision cataract surgery, have become popular due to their benefits, like reduced trauma, faster recovery, and greater patient comfort.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Cataract Surgery

AI has significantly improved cataract surgery by enhancing preoperative planning and assisting surgeons in making intraoperative decisions, leading to better outcomes.

Preoperative Preparation for Cataract Surgery

Necessary Diagnostic Tests

Here is the list of tests that your doctor will do to determine your condition:

🟢 Do’s Before Surgery

✅ Arrive on Time:You must arrive at the hospital on the date and time specified in your appointment letter.

✅ Sign a Consent Form: You will be required to sign a consent form for your surgery.

✅ Use Eye Drops: Make sure to apply the prescribed eye drops at home before the surgery as instructed by your doctor.

🔴 Dont's Before Surgery

❌ Avoid Eating or Drinking: You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for 12 hours before the surgery to prevent stomach acid from entering your lungs during the procedure.

❌ No Makeup or Skincare Products: Remove all makeup, moisturizers, and body care products the night before the surgery to prevent infections.

❌ Stop Certain Medications: Avoid medications like paracetamol or blood thinners before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding. Follow your doctor's advice on this.

❌ Don’t Wear Contact Lenses: Stop wearing contact lenses at least 3 days before surgery and switch to glasses to avoid eye irritation and infection.

Surgical Procedure of Cataract Surgery

• To treat the cataract, you will receive medicine to numb the surgical area and also get a sedative to help you relax. 
• The sedative will keep you awake during the surgery, but you will feel calm and a bit dazed.
• During the surgery, the doctors will remove the clouded lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens. 
• Your vision will improve within a few days after the surgery, though it may be blurry at first. Over time, your eyes will heal and adjust.
• It's important to visit your doctor for follow-up checkups to monitor your healing. 
• If you feel itching or mild discomfort, this is normal and should go away within a week. 
• You will also need to wear a patch or protective shield over your eye for a few days after the surgery.

Types of Cataract Surgery

1. Small Incision/Phacoemulsification: This is the most commonly recommended type of cataract surgery. The surgeon uses a tiny scalpel to make a small incision in your cornea. A probe is then inserted, which emits high-frequency sound waves to break up the natural lens, allowing it to be removed through the incision.
2. Extracapsular: In this type of surgery, the doctor makes a larger incision in the eye to remove the lens. This procedure may require stitches afterward.
3. Laser-Guided Surgery: This surgery uses a laser instead of a scalpel to assist with phacoemulsification. It is also used in some extracapsular cataract removal procedures for more precision.

Post Operative Care and Recovery

Hospital Stay and Initial Recovery

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure so there's no need to stay in the hospital, you can go home the same day. In addition, most patients can see better 1 to 3 days after surgery yet it will take 4 to 6 weeks to get fully recovered.

Success Rate of Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is an outpatient, quick, and painless procedure that helps to remove the cloudy lens that causes vision problems and replaces it with an intraocular lens. Additionally, this procedure is considered safe with a success rate of 98%.

Possible Complications of Cataract Surgery

Complications after cataract surgery are uncommon, and most can be treated successfully. These may include:

• Swelling
• Infection
• Bleeding
• Drooping eyelid
• Secondary cataract
• Loss of vision
• Artificial lens moving out of place
• Retinal detachment
• Glaucoma

However, the risk of complications may be higher if you have other serious medical conditions or eye diseases.

Why Choose RIHLATMED for Cataract Surgery in India?

✅ Team of Top Ophthalmologists: We recommend the best doctors with over 20 years of experience, ensuring expert care for your cataract surgery.

✅ JCI/NABH Accredited Hospitals: Our partner hospitals are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including the latest technologies like robotics, machine learning, and cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic equipment. This ensures comprehensive and personalized care.

✅ Other Benefits: We offer fast and detailed responses, accurate cost estimates, assistance with medical visas, accommodation in India, and priority appointment scheduling with top doctors. Additionally, we help with airport pickup, hotel drop-off, and hospitalization assistance to ensure a smooth experience.

Conclusion

Cataract surgery is the most effective way to treat cloudy vision. A team of experts conducts the surgery after performing tests to evaluate the shape and structure of the eye. This procedure restores clear vision, significantly improving the quality of life.