Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery removes the clouded natural lens of the eye and replaces it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL), restoring sharp vision.
Success Rate
99%
Hospital Stay
Day procedure
Recovery
1–2 weeks
Cost Range
₹20,000 – ₹80,000 per eye
Cataract Surgery: Restoring Clear Vision
Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed surgical procedure worldwide, with a safety profile and success rate unmatched in medicine. Modern phacoemulsification takes under 20 minutes and typically requires no stitches.
The Phacoemulsification Procedure
- A micro-incision (2.2–2.8 mm) is made at the edge of the cornea
- A circular opening is made in the lens capsule (capsulorhexis)
- Ultrasound energy breaks the cloudy lens into tiny fragments (phacoemulsification)
- Fragments are aspirated; the capsule is cleaned
- A foldable IOL is injected through the same micro-incision and unfolds in position
- No stitches — the wound is self-sealing
IOL Options
| IOL Type | Vision Provided | Spectacle Need |
|---|---|---|
| Monofocal | Clear at one distance (usually far) | Reading glasses needed |
| Multifocal | Near, intermediate, and far | Minimal to none |
| Toric | Corrects astigmatism | Reduced need |
| EDOF (Extended Depth of Focus) | Wide range; fewer halos than multifocal | Minimal |
FEMTO Cataract Surgery
Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) uses a laser instead of a blade for incisions and capsulotomy, offering extreme precision — particularly beneficial for premium IOL placement.
Recovery
- Vision improves within 24–48 hours
- Eye drops (antibiotic + steroid) for 4 weeks
- Avoid swimming and eye rubbing for 2 weeks
- Protective eye shield at night for 1 week
- Full visual stabilisation in 4–6 weeks
FAQ
Cataract Surgery — Frequently Asked Questions
Is cataract surgery painful?
No. Surgery is performed under topical (eye drop) anaesthesia. Patients are awake but feel no pain. The procedure takes 15–20 minutes per eye.
When should I have cataract surgery?
Surgery is recommended when cataract causes visual difficulty that affects daily life — reading, driving, or recognising faces — and when spectacle correction no longer helps adequately.
What are premium IOLs?
Premium IOLs include multifocal lenses (clear vision at all distances), toric lenses (correcting astigmatism), and extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses. They reduce spectacle dependence after surgery compared to standard monofocal lenses.