What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a safe and highly effective procedure that treats cataracts—a common age-related condition where the natural eye lens becomes cloudy, causing blurred or impaired vision. The surgery involves removing the clouded lens and replacing it with a clear intraocular lens (IOL) to restore vision. It is the only proven treatment for cataracts.
There are two primary surgical techniques:
- Phacoemulsification: Uses ultrasound to break up the lens before removal—standard and widely practiced.
- Laser-assisted surgery: Uses femtosecond lasers for greater precision, though it is costlier.
Cataract surgery is typically performed under local anaesthesia as an outpatient procedure, takes 15–30 minutes per eye, and offers a 95–97% success rate. Vision usually begins improving within a few days, with full recovery in 4–6 weeks. Secondary cataracts can occur later but are easily treated with a simple laser procedure.
Why Choose India for Cataract Surgery?
India has emerged as a leading destination for cataract surgery due to its blend of affordability and excellence in ophthalmic care. Delhi-based Tier 1 hospitals like Centre for Sight, Max Eye Care, Dr. Shroff’s Charity Eye Hospital, and Apollo Hospitals (Delhi) offer:
- Globally trained ophthalmologists and high surgery volumes with excellent outcomes
- Advanced technology, including femtosecond laser systems and premium IOL options
- High surgical success rates (95%+) with personalized, outpatient care
- Supportive services for international patients, including travel assistance and Multilingual staff
Most importantly, costs in India are 3–5 times lower than in the US or UK, without compromising safety or quality—making it a top choice for patients seeking expert care at affordable prices.
Cost & Duration Summary
Average Cost in India: USD 1,000 – 2,000
Hospital Stay Required: 0 days (outpatient)
Post-Treatment Stay in India: 5 – 7 days (for follow-ups)