Exploring the Expenses Involved in Cataract Surgery for the Year 2024

Cataract surgery involves removing the eye’s cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one. It restores clear vision by avoiding the difficulty of seeing in low-light conditions. 

While opting for surgery, it’s also important to navigate the financial aspects of it. Different kinds of cataract treatments charge different amounts. Knowing the costs is vital to align your budget and needs. But this should not determine your selection of a healthcare provider. 

The main types of cataract operations are:

1. Phacoemulsification (Phaco): 

• This is the most common type of cataract surgery. 

• It involves making a small incision in the eye, through which an ultrasonic device is inserted. 

• The device uses ultrasound waves to break up (emulsify) the cloudy lens, which is then suctioned out. 

• An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is then inserted to replace the natural lens. 

 

2. Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE): 

• This procedure is typically used for advanced cataracts where the lens is too dense to be broken up by phacoemulsification. 

• A larger incision is made in the eye to remove the cataract in one piece. 

• An IOL is then implanted to replace the removed lens. 

 

3. Intracapsular Cataract Extraction (ICCE): 

• This is a less common procedure where both the lens and the surrounding lens capsule are removed. 

• A larger incision is required, and an IOL is usually placed in a different location in the eye. 

• This method is rarely used today due to its higher risk of complications. 

 

4. Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS): 

• A newer technique that uses a femtosecond laser to make precise incisions in the eye and to break up the lens. 

• The rest of the procedure is like phacoemulsification, with the lens fragments being removed and replaced with an IOL. 

• This method allows for greater precision and potentially better outcomes. 

 

 5. Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS): 

• It is like ECCE but uses a smaller incision and a manual technique to remove the lens. 

• It’s often used in settings where phacoemulsification equipment is not available. 

Each of these methods has its advantages and is chosen based on the specific needs and conditions of the patient. The choice of technique also depends on the surgeon’s expertise and the available technology. 

Shri Venkatesh Eye Institute will guide you on the same for a cataract operation in Mumbai. 

Factors Influencing Cataract Operation Cost in Mumbai 

Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) and Their Manufacturers 

1. Monofocal IOLs 

• Description: Provide clear vision at one distance (near, intermediate, or far). Patients typically need glasses for other distances. 
• Manufacturers: 

• Johnson & Johnson Vision: TECNIS® 1-Piece IOL 
• Alcon: AcrySof® IQ Monofocal IOL 
• Bausch + Lomb: enVista® Monofocal IOL 

2. Multifocal IOLs 

• Description: Provide clear vision at multiple distances (near, intermediate, and far), reducing the need for glasses. May cause glare and halos around lights, especially at night. 
• Manufacturers: 

• Alcon: AcrySof® IQ PanOptix® Trifocal IOL 
• Johnson & Johnson Vision: TECNIS® Multifocal IOL 
• Bausch + Lomb: Trulign® Toric Multifocal IOL 

3. Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs 

• Description: Provide a continuous range of vision, particularly improving intermediate and far vision, with less likelihood of glare and halos compared to multifocal IOLs. May still require glasses for reading or very close tasks. 
• Manufacturers: 

• Johnson & Johnson Vision: TECNIS Symfony® IOL 
• Alcon: AcrySof® IQ Vivity™ IOL 
• Carl Zeiss Meditec: AT LARA® 829MP 

4. Accommodative IOLs 

• Description: Designed to move within the eye to provide focus at different distances, mimicking the eye’s natural focusing ability. It provides good intermediate and distance vision but may still require reading glasses. 
• Manufacturers: 

• Bausch + Lomb: Crystalens® AO Accommodating IOL 
• Eyeonics (now part of Bausch + Lomb): Crystalens® HD 

5. Toric IOLs 

• Description: Correct astigmatism and provide clear vision at a specific distance. Customized to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses for distance vision, though additional correction may be needed for near or intermediate vision. 
• Manufacturers: 

• Alcon: AcrySof® IQ Toric IOL 
• Johnson & Johnson Vision: TECNIS® Toric IOL 
• Bausch + Lomb: enVista® Toric IOL 

6. Light Adjustable IOLs (LALs) 

• Description: Allow for postoperative adjustments using ultraviolet light to fine-tune vision, providing a high degree of customization and precision. Require several office visits after surgery for adjustments. 
• Manufacturers: 

• RxSight: Light Adjustable Lens™ (LAL) 

7. Aspheric IOLs 

• Description: Designed to reduce spherical aberrations and improve image quality, providing better contrast sensitivity and sharper vision, especially in low-light conditions. Available in both monofocal and multifocal options. 
• Manufacturers: 

• Alcon: AcrySof® IQ Aspheric IOL 
• Johnson & Johnson Vision: TECNIS® Aspheric IOL 
• Bausch + Lomb: enVista® Aspheric IOL 

These manufacturers are well-known in the ophthalmology field and provide a variety of IOL options to meet different patient needs. 

1. Types of Intraocular Lens  

• Monofocal: This corrects a single range of vision for those without astigmatism. Monofocal lens treats either nearsightedness or farsightedness. You will feel more confident while driving at night since they don’t have any glare or halos.  
• Toric: These are for patients with astigmatism. It corrects near, intermediate, or farsightedness.  
• Presbyopic-Correcting: Presbyopic can correct two or more of your vision problems. Different brands of presbyopic-correcting lenses might be suitable for your condition.  

2. Geographical location of the surgery 

Cataract eye surgery costs in Mumbai vary depending on the procedure. The region of the hospital also makes a difference. Metropolitans charge higher costs compared to smaller towns or rural areas. 

3. Insurance coverage and copayments  

Our eye institute partners with insurance providers to ensure patients receive complete care. Most private insurance plans will cover standard cataract operations in Mumbai.  

The patient must be responsible for surgeon fees, copayments, or deductibles. The insurance company will cover the amount as per your plan. The patient must make the balance payment before the hospital.    

Cataract operation in Mumbai, India is often covered by health insurance policies, but the extent of coverage and any additional payments (co-payments or payments over and above) can vary based on the specific insurance provider and the policy details. Here is an overview of how insurance coverage for cataract surgery typically works in India: 

Insurance Coverage for Cataract Surgery in India 

1. Coverage by Health Insurance Policies 

• Basic Coverage: Most health insurance policies cover cataract surgery as part of their standard offerings. This includes cataract operation cost, hospital charges, pre- and post-operative consultations, and the cost of the intraocular lens (IOL) implant. 

• Waiting Period: There is usually a waiting period of 1 to 2 years from the date of policy purchase before cataract surgery becomes eligible for coverage. 

• Limits on Coverage: Policies often have a cap on the amount that can be claimed for cataract surgery. This cap can be a specific amount per eye, or a percentage of the total sum insured. 

2. Co-payments and Additional Payments 

• Co-payment: Some policies may require the insured to bear a certain percentage of the surgery cost, known as co-payment. This percentage can range from 10% to 20% or more, depending on the policy. 

• Sub-limits: Policies might have sub-limits on the cost of the IOL. If a premium lens (like multifocal or toric lenses) is chosen, the patient might have to pay the difference out of pocket. 

• Room Rent Limits: Some policies impose a limit on room rent coverage. If the patient opts for a room that costs more than the allowable limit, they will need to pay the difference. 

• Exclusions: Certain charges, such as pre-operative investigations, non-medical expenses (e.g., personal care items used in the hospital), and post-operative medications, may not be covered and would need to be paid by the patient. 

3. Cashless Facility 

• Network Hospitals: Most insurance companies have a network of hospitals where policyholders can avail themselves of cashless treatment. The insurance provider settles the hospital bill directly, subject to the policy terms. 

• Pre-authorization: To avail themselves of cashless services, patients usually need to obtain pre-authorization from the insurance company, which involves submitting necessary documents and getting approval before the surgery. 

4. Reimbursement: 

• If the surgery is performed in a non-network hospital or if a cashless facility is not used, patients can opt for reimbursement. They need to pay the hospital bill upfront and then submit the claim to the insurance company for reimbursement, along with all necessary documents (bills, prescriptions, discharge summary, etc.)  

Examples of Specific Insurers and Their Policies 

1. Star Health and Allied Insurance: 

• Coverage: Cataract surgery is covered up to a specified limit, which is typically a fixed amount per eye (e.g., Rs. 25,000 per eye). 

• Co-payment: There may be no co-payment for standard plans, but this can vary. 

2. New India Assurance: 

• Coverage: Offers coverage with sub-limits for cataract surgery, often around 10% of the sum insured. 

• Co-payment: Some policies may have co-payment clauses, especially for senior citizens. 

3. ICICI Lombard: 

• Coverage: Includes cataract surgery with limits on the cost of the lens. 

• Co-payment: Typically, no co-payment, but higher-end plans may have different terms. 

4. HDFC ERGO: 

• Coverage: Covers cataract surgery with specified sub-limits based on the plan. 

• Co-payment: Generally, no co-payment for most comprehensive plans. 

Important Considerations 

• Policy Details: Always review the specific terms and conditions of your health insurance policy to understand the coverage, sub-limits, co-payment requirements, and any exclusions. 

• Pre-authorization: Ensure you obtain pre-authorization for cashless claims to avoid any issues during hospital admission. 

• Documentation: Keep all necessary documents, such as prescriptions, bills, and medical reports, for a smooth reimbursement process if opting for reimbursement. 

Note: For accurate and up-to-date information about cataract operation in Mumbai, it is recommended to directly contact your insurance provider or consult with the hospital’s insurance helpdesk. 

Please review the operation bill to determine eye cataract operation cost in Mumbai. 

Extra Expenses and Considerations 

• Diagnostic imaging  

Diagnostic imaging plays a crucial role in the planning and execution of cataract surgery. These advanced techniques ensure accurate diagnosis and help ophthalmologists tailor the surgery to each patient’s specific needs. Here are some common diagnostic imaging methods used in cataract surgery: 

1. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) 

• Purpose: Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina. 

• Benefits: Helps detect any underlying retinal issues that could affect cataract surgery outcomes. It is especially useful for assessing the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. 

2. A-Scan Ultrasound Biometry 

• Purpose: Measures the length of the eye. 

• Benefits: Accurate eye length measurement is crucial for calculating the power of the intraocular lens (IOL) to be implanted during cataract surgery. 

3. B-Scan Ultrasound 

• Purpose: Provides detailed images of the structures inside the eye, especially useful when the view is obstructed by a dense cataract. 

• Benefits: Helps in assessing the posterior segment of the eye and identifying any abnormalities that could affect surgery. 

4. Keratometry 

• Purpose: Measures the curvature of the cornea. 

• Benefits: Essential for determining the appropriate IOL power and for planning any additional corrective procedures for astigmatism. 

5. Corneal Topography 

• Purpose: Creates a detailed map of the cornea’s surface. 

• Benefits: Helps identify corneal irregularities and astigmatism, which is critical for choosing the right type of IOL and achieving optimal visual outcomes. 

6. Specular Microscopy 

• Purpose: Analyzes the corneal endothelium, the innermost layer of the cornea. 

• Benefits: Assesses the health and density of endothelial cells, which is important for maintaining corneal clarity after surgery. 

7. Pachymetry 

• Purpose: Measures the thickness of the cornea. 

• Benefits: Important for evaluating corneal health and planning surgeries, especially in patients with corneal conditions or those considering premium IOLs. 

8. Fundus Photography 

• Purpose: Captures detailed images of the retina, optic nerve, and blood vessels. 

• Benefits: Helps document the condition of the retina and monitor any changes over time, which is important for managing patients with co-existing retinal conditions. 

Costs Associated with Diagnostic Imaging 

Diagnostic imaging procedures add to the overall cataract eye surgery cost but are essential for ensuring a successful outcome. Here’s a brief overview of the potential costs: 

• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 

• A-Scan Ultrasound Biometry: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 

• B-Scan Ultrasound: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 

• Keratometry: ₹500 – ₹1,500 

• Corneal Topography: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 

• Specular Microscopy: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000 

• Pachymetry: ₹500 – ₹1,500 

• Fundus Photography: ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 

Diagnostic imaging is an integral part of cataract surgery, providing critical information that guides the surgical plan and helps achieve the best possible visual outcomes. While these procedures add to the overall cost, they are necessary for ensuring the safety and success of the surgery. Patients should discuss the need for and cost of these imaging tests with their ophthalmologist as part of their pre-operative planning. 

For more information on cataract surgery and diagnostic imaging costs, or to book an appointment, visit Shri Venkatesh Eye Institute in Mumbai. Our team provides comprehensive care and helping you navigate every step of your treatment journey. 

• Anaesthesia and Surgical Fees 

Cataract operation can be performed using different types of Anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety. The choice of Anaesthesia depends on several factors, including the patient’s health, anxiety levels, and the complexity of the surgery. Here are the main types of Anaesthesia used in cataract surgery: 

1. Topical Anaesthesia 

• Description: anaesthetic eye drops are applied to numb the surface of the eye. 

• Benefits: 

• Minimally invasive. 

• No need for injections. 

• Quick onset and recovery. 

• Allows the patient to remain awake and responsive during the procedure. 

• Common Use: Preferred for routine cataract surgeries. 

2. Local Anaesthesia (Regional Block) 

• Description: anaesthetic is injected around the eye to numb the entire area. 

• Types: 

• Peribulbar Block: Injection administered around the eyeball. 

• Retrobulbar Block: Injection administered behind the eyeball. 

• Benefits: 

• Provides deeper Anaesthesia and more extensive pain relief. 

• Reduces eye movement during surgery. 

• Common Use: Used in cases where more extensive Anaesthesia is needed or for patients who may not be able to remain still. 

3. Intracameral Anaesthesia 

• Description: anaesthetic is injected directly into the anterior chamber of the eye (the space between the cornea and the iris). 

• Benefits: 

• Provides targeted Anaesthesia to the surgical site. 

• Often used in conjunction with topical Anaesthesia for enhanced pain control. 

• Common Use: Increasingly popular for routine cataract surgeries due to its effectiveness and simplicity. 

4. General Anaesthesia 

• Description: The patient is put into a temporary state of unconsciousness using intravenous drugs and inhaled gases. 

• Benefits: Ensures the patient is completely asleep and pain-free during the procedure. 

• Common Use: Reserved for patients who are unable to tolerate local or topical Anaesthesia, such as young children, individuals with high anxiety, or those with specific medical conditions. 

Considerations for Choosing Anaesthesia 

1. Patient’s Health: Medical conditions and overall health status play a significant role in determining the appropriate type of Anaesthesia. 

2. Patient’s Anxiety Levels: High levels of anxiety or inability to remain still may necessitate the use of general Anaesthesia. 

3. Surgeon’s Preference: The experience and preference of the surgeon can influence the choice of Anaesthesia. 

4. Type of Surgery: The complexity of the surgery may require different levels of Anaesthesia. 

5. Patient’s Comfort: Ensuring the patient’s comfort and reducing pain are primary considerations in Anaesthesia selection. 

Choosing the right type of Anaesthesia for cataract surgery is crucial for ensuring patient comfort, safety, and the success of the procedure. Each type of Anaesthesia has its benefits and is selected based on the individual needs and circumstances of the patient. It is important for patients to discuss their medical history, anxiety levels, and any concerns with their ophthalmologist to determine the most suitable Anaesthesia option. 

For more information on eye cataract operation cost in Mumbai and Anaesthesia options, or to book an appointment, visit Shri Venkatesh Eye Institute in Mumbai. Our team provides comprehensive care and ensuring the best outcomes for our patients. 

And surgeons’ charges –  

Factors Affecting Surgical Fees in Cataract Surgery 

Cataract eye surgery cost can vary widely based on several factors. Understanding these factors can help patients plan better and make informed decisions. Here are the key elements that influence the surgical fees for cataract surgery: 

1. Type of Intraocular Lens (IOL) 

Standard Mono focal IOLs: Generally covered by insurance, often at a lower cost. 

Premium IOLs (Multifocal, Toric, EDOF): Higher costs due to advanced technology, often not fully covered by insurance. 

2. Surgeon’s Experience and Reputation 

Surgeons with extensive experience and a high reputation may charge higher fees. 

Renowned surgeons often justify higher costs with better outcomes and lower complication rates. 

3. Type of Anaesthesia 

Topical Anaesthesia: Generally, less expensive due to minimal resources needed. 

Local Anaesthesia (Peribulbar or Retrobulbar Block): May incur additional costs for anaesthetist services and medications. 

General Anaesthesia: Significantly higher costs due to the need for an anaesthesiologist and additional medical resources. 

4. Surgical Facility and Location 

Private Hospitals tend to charge more compared to government or charitable hospitals. 

Geographic Location: Costs can vary significantly between cities and rural areas. Metropolitan areas typically have higher fees due to higher operating costs. 

5. Technology and Equipment Used 

Standard Phacoemulsification: Standard technique with moderate costs. 

Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS): More expensive due to advanced technology and better precision. 

6. Pre-operative and Post-operative Care 

Pre-operative Tests: Additional costs for diagnostic tests such as OCT, A-scan, and blood work. 

Post-operative Care: Follow-up visits, medications, and potential additional treatments can add to the overall cost. 

7. Insurance Coverage 

Extent of Coverage: The coverage limits of your health insurance policy can significantly impact out-of-pocket expenses. 

Co-payments and Deductibles: Insurance plans may have co-payment clauses and deductibles that affect the total amount payable by the patient. 

8. Complexity of the Case 

Simple Cases: Standard fees for routine cataract surgery. 

Complicated Cases: Higher fees for cases involving other eye conditions (e.g., glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy) requiring additional treatment. 

9. Additional Services and Amenities 

Room Type: Choosing a private room or suite over a shared ward can increase costs. 

Extra Services: Additional comfort services, personalized care, and extended hospital stay can add to the total bill. 

Cataract operation cost is influenced by multiple factors, including the type of intraocular lens used, the surgeon’s expertise, anaesthesia type, facility location, technology, pre- and post-operative care, insurance coverage, and the complexity of the case. Patients should discuss all these factors with their ophthalmologist and the surgical facility to get a clear understanding of the total expected costs and make informed decisions. 

Follow-up Visits and Touch-ups 

One significant factor affecting the overall cataract eye surgery cost in Mumbai is the need for follow-up visits and touch-ups. Here’s a detailed look at how these components impact the total cost of cataract surgery from a comprehensive perspective: 

Follow-up Visits 

Purpose and Importance 

• Monitoring Recovery: Follow-up visits are essential to monitor the healing process, check for any complications, and ensure the success of the surgery. 

• Adjusting Treatment: These visits allow the ophthalmologist to adjust medications, such as anti-inflammatory or antibiotic eye drops, based on the patient’s recovery. 

• Assessing Vision: Post-operative visits are crucial for assessing the patient’s vision and making any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan. 

Cost Implications 

• Number of Visits: The total cost can increase with the number of follow-up visits required. Typically, patients may need multiple visits (e.g., 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-surgery). 

• Professional Fees: Each follow-up visit incurs professional fees from the ophthalmologist and possibly other healthcare providers involved in the post-operative care. 

• Additional Tests: Some follow-up visits may require additional diagnostic tests to monitor the eye’s condition, which can add to the overall cost. 

Touch-ups 

Purpose and Importance 

• Enhancing Visual Outcomes: Sometimes, additional procedures (touch-ups) are necessary to fine-tune vision after the initial cataract surgery. 

• Addressing Complications: If complications arise, such as posterior capsule opacification (PCO), a common occurrence where the back of the lens capsule becomes cloudy, a touch-up procedure like YAG laser capsulotomy may be required. 

• Correcting Residual Errors: In some cases, patients may need further corrective procedures to address any residual refractive errors for optimal vision. 

Cost Implications 

• Procedure Costs: Touch-up procedures like YAG laser capsulotomy or additional corrective surgeries incur extra costs, including facility fees and professional charges. 

• Medications and Care: Post-touch-up care may involve additional medications and follow-up visits, contributing to the overall expense. 

• Unplanned Expenses: These additional procedures can lead to unexpected costs for patients, emphasizing the need for comprehensive insurance coverage or financial planning. 

Comprehensive Care Perspective 

• Ensuring Optimal Outcomes: Follow-up visits and touch-ups are integral to achieving the best possible visual outcomes and ensuring patient satisfaction. They represent a crucial aspect of comprehensive eye care. 

• Cost-Benefit Balance: While these follow-up procedures increase the total cost, they are necessary to avoid long-term complications and potential additional surgeries, which could be more costly. 

Patient-Centric Approach 

• Value of Continued Care: From a patient-centric viewpoint, the additional cost of follow-up visits and touch-ups is justified by the value they provide in terms of safety, quality of life, and overall satisfaction with the surgery. 

• Transparent Communication: It’s important for healthcare providers to communicate transparently about the potential need for these follow-up visits and touch-ups and their associated costs, helping patients to plan and manage their finances better. 

Insurance and Financial Planning 

• Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive insurance plans should ideally cover follow-up visits and touch-ups to alleviate the financial burden on patients. Patients should review their insurance policies to understand what is covered. 

• Financial Preparedness: Patients should be encouraged to discuss potential follow-up costs with their ophthalmologist before surgery, enabling them to budget appropriately and explore financing options if necessary. 

Follow-up visits and touch-ups are essential components of cataract operation in Mumbai that ensure successful outcomes and patient satisfaction. While they do add to the overall cost, their importance in monitoring recovery, addressing complications, and optimizing vision cannot be overstated. By understanding these costs and planning accordingly, patients can better manage their cataract treatment journey and focus on achieving a healthy recovery. 

For more information on managing eye cataract operation costs in Mumbai, follow-up visits and touch-ups, or to book an appointment, visit Shri Venkatesh Eye Institute in Mumbai. Our dedicated team is here to provide comprehensive care and support throughout your treatment.