Different Types of Cataract Surgery & Their Costs
Cataract surgery involves replacing the clouded eye lens with an artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens. This can be done using different techniques and each technique costs slightly different. The most commonly used techniques are explained below-
Phacoemulsification
Also known as phaco, it is the most common technique used for cataract treatment. An ultrasonic probe is used to break down or emulsify the clouded part of the lens and the pieces are extracted through a suction device. The foldable lens is then placed inside the eye. Phaco cataract surgery cost in India ranges from Rs. 7,000 to Rs. 24,500 per eye.
Micro-incision Cataract Surgery (MICS)
This is an advanced form of cataract surgery in which a small incision, less than 1.88 mm, is made to remove the clouded lens. Either laser or phacoemulsification is used during the procedure and once the clouded part is completely removed, the intraocular lens is implanted in the eye safely. As it is a minimally invasive technique, cataract surgery cost is slightly higher, i.e., around Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 80,000 per eye.
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS)
In this modern technique, a femtosecond laser is used to make the incision and to remove the clouded lens part. The foldable lens is inserted into the cavity to provide clear vision. Being a high-precision and minimally invasive technique, femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery cost is around Rs. 18,000 to Rs. 1,00,000 per eye.
Besides these three techniques, there are other types as well-
- Manual extracapsular cataract surgery (MECS)
- Intracapsular cataract surgery
- Manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS)
The most suitable technique is chosen by the cataract surgeon after proper diagnosis. The diagnosis involves various tests, including refraction test, retinal examination, slit-lamp exam, etc. These eye tests cost around Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 3,000.
Besides the standard examination, additional tests may also be suggested by the doctor, such as IOL workup, B scan, pentacam test, OCT, etc. Each of these tests are slightly expensive and cost around Rs. 500 to Rs. 2,500. These advanced tests are usually recommended by the doctor when cataract has matured and vision loss has become significant.
FAQs About Cataract Surgery Cost
What are the common factors that affect cataract surgery cost in India?
Cataract surgery cost depends on the following factors-
- Surgeon's fee
- Technology available at the hospital
- City/location
- Type of surgery
- Type of intraocular lenses
- Diagnostic tests
- Post-surgery care
All these factors are accounted while calculating the average cost of cataract treatment. The exact price will vary from patient to patient.
How much does each component of cataract treatment cost in India?
On average, the different components of cataract operation costs around-
|
| Pre-surgery examinations and screenings |
Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000 |
| Surgery cost |
Rs. 20,000 to Rs. 30,000 |
| Intraocular/cataract lens cost |
Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 70,000 |
| Cataract center charges |
Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 |
| Post-surgery cost for specs, eye drops, medications |
Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000 |
Is cataract operation cost in India covered under insurance?
Yes, cataract surgery cost is covered by health insurance under all conditions. Sight is very important and cataract is a critical illness that can lead to a permanent disability, i.e., blindness. Thus, the entire treatment cost is payable through insurance. However, there must be some co-pay terms and coverage limits on the policy. Therefore, it is advised to talk to the insurance providers before filing a claim.
What is the cost of a cataract lens?
There are different types of cataract lenses available with different functionalities. Based on the functionality, they are divided into the following categories-
| Monofocal lenses |
Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 50,000 |
| Multifocal lenses |
Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 75,000 |
| Toric lenses |
Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 90,000 |
| Monovision lenses |
Rs. 30,000 to Rs. 70,000 |
Is the cost of premium cataract lenses covered by insurance?
No. Insurance plans usually don’t cover premium cataract lens costs anywhere in India. Only standard lens is covered by the insurance and if the patient opts for premium lenses, he/she has to bear the expense personally.
The doctor usually has a detailed consultation regarding the techniques, types of lenses, and entire cataract surgery cost before proceeding with the treatment. The decision is made based on factors, such as safety, vision requirements, and budget.
Book a free consultation with the best cataract surgeons in India and learn all about the advanced cataract treatment methods and their costs.
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