About Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery removes the cloudy natural lens from your eye and replaces it with a clear artificial lens.
The cloudy lens, called a cataract, develops when the normally transparent lens in your eye becomes opaque, causing blurred vision and difficulty seeing clearly.
This outpatient procedure is one of the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide, with over 20 million operations conducted annually. Most patients notice clearer vision after surgery.
When Do You Need Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery becomes necessary when the cloudy lens interferes with your daily activities. You might consider surgery if you experience:
- Difficulty reading, cooking, or watching television
- Problems driving safely, especially at night
- Increased sensitivity to bright lights or glare
- Trouble recognising faces or seeing colours clearly
- Reduced independence in performing everyday tasks
Your surgeon will help you choose the best artificial lens for your lifestyle.
The Surgery Process
Before Surgery
Your eye doctor will conduct a comprehensive examination to measure your eye and determine the best artificial lens for your needs. On the day of surgery, special eye drops will dilate your pupils, and you may receive mild sedation (only if necessary), to help you relax.
During Surgery
The entire procedure typically takes 10 to 15 minutes and is usually painless, and serious complications are uncommon. Here’s what happens:
- Anaesthesia: Your eye is numbed with special drops, so you won’t feel any pain during the surgery
- Small Incision: The surgeon makes a tiny cut (about 2-3 millimetres) in your cornea
- Lens Removal: Using ultrasound waves, the cloudy lens is gently broken into small pieces and removed through the incision
- Artificial Lens Placement: A clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL) is carefully inserted to replace the natural lens
- Healing: The small incision typically heals on its own without stitches
You’ll remain awake during the surgery but won’t see what the doctor is doing. Most patients only notice lights or gentle movement.
Recovery and Healing
Immediate Recovery
- No overnight hospital stay is usually needed
- Some improvement in vision is often noticed immediately, though mild blurriness is normal
- Your eye may feel slightly gritty or sensitive to light for the first day or two
- Eye drops are administered every few hours for 24 hours
- Many patients are fit to travel about 48 hours after surgery, if the surgeon agrees
First Week
- Vision continues to improve as your eye heals
- You’ll use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation
- Avoid rubbing your eye, heavy lifting, or bending over
Complete Healing
- Most daily activities can be resumed within a few days
- Full recovery typically takes 4 to 8 weeks
- Your vision will stabilise during this time, with many patients experiencing their best results within the first month
Cataract Surgery in India
Techniques
- Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) at some centres; the surgeon will advise whether it adds value in your case
- Phacoemulsification and MICS (Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery) techniques
Experienced Surgeons
- Experienced ophthalmologists who specialise in cataract surgery
What the Estimate Covers
- Ask the hospital what its estimate includes, such as consultation, surgery, the lens (IOL), follow-up visits and medicines
Premium Lens Options
- Intraocular lenses including multifocal and toric lenses, which can reduce dependence on glasses
- Premium lenses cost more than standard lenses; the estimate will show the difference
Safety
Cataract surgery is a common operation and serious complications are uncommon. Most patients experience little to no pain during or after surgery. Your surgeon will explain the risks that apply to your eyes.
Outcomes depend on your condition and the surgeon. Ask the treating hospital for its own outcome data before you decide.
Cost
- Cataract surgery in India often costs considerably less than in Western private hospitals
The cost depends mainly on the type of lens chosen. The indicative range on this page is a guide only. Send your reports and the hospital will estimate by lens type.
