Phaco Surgery Cost in India

What is Phaco Surgery?

Phacoemulsification is a minimally invasive technique used to remove cataracts, cloudy or opaque areas in the natural lens of the eye. The method uses ultrasound waves to break the cataract into tiny pieces, which are then suctioned out through a small incision. After the cataract is removed, a clear artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL), is implanted to restore clear vision.

Unlike older surgical methods, phaco surgery:

• Requires only a 2–3 mm incision
• Involves no stitches or sutures
• Is done under topical or local anesthesia
• Allows same-day discharge
• Has a shorter recovery time, often just a few days

Phaco surgery is especially preferred for:

• Seniors who want quick visual recovery
• Working professionals who wish to minimal downtime
• Patients with diabetes or hypertension needing safe, low-risk surgery

The entire procedure typically takes 15 to 20 minutes per eye, and visual improvement often begins within 24 to 48 hours.

Who Needs Phaco Surgery?

Phacoemulsification is recommended for individuals with cataracts that impair their daily vision. A cataract is a natural clouding of the eye's lens that typically develops with age. Still, it can also occur due to diabetes, long-term steroid use, eye trauma, or other medical conditions.

You may need phaco surgery if you experience:

• Blurry or foggy vision
• Difficulty seeing in bright light or at night
• Frequent changes in glasses prescription
• Faded colors or halos around lights
• Trouble reading, driving, or recognizing faces

While cataracts may start mildly, they often progress over time and begin to disrupt normal activities, especially driving, reading, or working on a computer. Phaco surgery becomes necessary when glasses no longer provide sufficient relief and the vision starts to affect your quality of life.

Phaco is also the first choice for patients with early-stage or moderate cataracts because it’s minimally invasive and offers rapid healing. In cases where cataracts are advanced or mature, phaco surgery may still be performed, but with modified techniques and more experienced surgeons.

Types of Cataract Cases Treated with Phaco:

• Age-related cataracts (most common)
• Diabetic cataracts
• Congenital cataracts in adults
• Cortical and nuclear cataracts
• Cataracts caused by injury or medications

Whether the cataract is mild or advanced, a comprehensive eye exam, including biometry and corneal scans, is required to assess suitability for phacoemulsification surgery and select the appropriate intraocular lens.

How is Phaco Surgery Performed?

Phacoemulsification surgery is a quick and precise outpatient procedure. It is usually done under local or topical anesthesia and does not require a hospital stay. The entire process is painless, stitchless, and often completed within 15 to 20 minutes per eye.

1. Anesthesia and Preparation: The doctor first applies numbing eye drops or local anesthesia so you don’t feel any pain during surgery. Your eye is cleaned, and a sterile cover is placed around it.
2. Tiny Incision: A tiny incision, usually about 2–3 millimeters, is made on the cornea. This allows the surgeon to access the cataract without damaging other parts of the eye.
3. Ultrasound Phacoemulsification: A thin ultrasonic probe is inserted through the incision. The probe breaks the cloudy lens into microscopic fragments using high-frequency sound waves. These pieces are gently suctioned out using the same probe.
4. IOL Implantation: Once the cataract is removed, the surgeon implants a clear intraocular lens (IOL) in the same spot. The lens unfolds inside your eye and remains permanently in place to restore sharp, natural vision.
5. No Stitches Needed: Since the incision is so small, no stitches are required. The eye naturally seals itself. A protective shield is placed over the eye, and you’re ready to go home after resting for a short while.

Post-Surgery Recovery

• You can go home the same day.
• Most patients notice improved vision within 24–48 hours.
• Full recovery usually takes around 1 to 2 weeks.
• Eye drops will be prescribed to prevent infection and inflammation.
• You’ll have follow-up visits to monitor healing and visual clarity.

Phaco surgery is one of the safest ophthalmic procedures globally, and when performed by experienced surgeons in India, it offers excellent results with minimal downtime.

What is the Cost of Phaco Surgery in India?

The cost of phacoemulsification cataract surgery in India typically ranges from ₹18,000 to ₹65,000 per eye, which is approximately $220 to $780. The final price depends on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) selected, the location of the hospital or clinic, the technology used, and the surgeon's level of expertise.

India offers this advanced procedure at a fraction of the international cost, without compromising on quality. Even when using premium lenses and state-of-the-art machines, the price in India remains 60% to 80% lower than in countries like the USA, UK, or UAE.

What’s Included in the Phaco Surgery Package:

• Pre-operative consultation with the ophthalmologist
• Biometry and diagnostics (such as keratometry, A-scan, IOL power calculation)
• Surgery charges, including the use of the phaco machine and consumables
• Intraocular lens (IOL) – monofocal (standard) or premium lens (multifocal/toric)
• Surgeon’s fees and operation theatre charges
• Eye drops and medications for recovery
• Post-operative checkups (up to 1–2 visits after surgery)

The lower end of the cost range (₹18,000–₹30,000 per eye) typically includes standard monofocal lenses, while the higher end (₹45,000–₹65,000 per eye) encompasses advanced lenses such as multifocal, trifocal, or toric lenses for astigmatism correction.

Patients visiting India for cataract treatment also benefit from short waiting times, cashless options with some international insurance providers, and all-inclusive medical tourism packages that include accommodation, travel support, and interpretation services.

Cost Breakdown of Phaco Surgery in India

The cost of phacoemulsification cataract surgery in India is influenced by several factors, including diagnostic tests, the type of intraocular lens used, surgical equipment, hospital facilities, and the surgeon’s expertise.

Here’s how the overall cost typically breaks down:

• Diagnostic tests and eye measurements (biometry, keratometry, A-scan, and IOL calculation) typically cost between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000 ($25–$60) and are essential prior to surgery.
• A surgeon’s consultation fee may range from ₹500 to ₹1,500 ($6–$18), depending on their reputation and experience.
• Phacoemulsification machine usage and OT charges can contribute ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 ($60–$120) to the overall bill.
• The cost of intraocular lenses (IOLs) varies significantly: a standard monofocal IOL may cost ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 ($60–$120), while premium multifocal or toric lenses can cost ₹20,000 to ₹40,000 ($240–$480) or more.
• Post-operative medications and eye drops, along with follow-up visits, may cost ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 ($18–$36).
• If accommodation, meals, or interpreter services are included for international patients, those may be bundled separately or as part of a medical tourism package.

Note: Prices may vary slightly depending on city, hospital brand, and doctor’s reputation. International patients may receive special bundled packages that include a hotel stay and language support.

Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) and Their Impact on Cost

The cost of phacoemulsification surgery in India largely depends on the type of intraocular lens implanted during the procedure. These artificial lenses replace your eye’s natural cloudy lens and stay in place permanently after surgery. Selecting the right IOL is a key decision that affects visual clarity, lifestyle comfort, and total cost.

Monofocal IOLs (Standard Option)

Monofocal lenses are the most commonly used and economical IOLs. They provide a clear vision at one fixed distance, usually for distance vision. Patients may still need glasses for reading or intermediate work.

• Cost in India: ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 per eye
• Ideal for: Patients prioritizing affordability and who don’t mind wearing reading glasses
• Covered by: Many insurance plans and government health schemes

Multifocal IOLs (Premium Option)

Multifocal lenses are advanced lenses that offer vision at multiple distances (near, intermediate, and far). These lenses reduce or eliminate the need for glasses, making them popular among younger or active patients.

• Cost in India: ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 per eye
• Ideal for: People who want independence from glasses for most activities
• Note: Slight halos or glare may occur at night in some cases

Toric IOLs (Astigmatism-Correcting)

Toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism, a condition where the cornea is shaped more like a rugby ball than a sphere. These lenses offer sharp vision for patients with astigmatism and reduce the need for glasses after surgery.

• Cost in India: ₹25,000 – ₹45,000 per eye
• Ideal for: Patients with pre-existing corneal astigmatism
• Special benefit: Sharp, distortion-free distance vision

Trifocal and Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs

These are next-generation premium lenses that offer an even broader range of focus and improved contrast in low-light conditions. EDOF lenses reduce glare and halos significantly compared to earlier multifocal designs.

• Cost in India: ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 per eye
• Ideal for: Professionals, frequent travelers, and tech users needing excellent vision at all ranges
• Availability: Offered at high-end centers and eye institutes

How Lens Type Affects Cost

The higher the sophistication of the IOL, the higher the surgery cost. However, these advanced lenses often save money in the long term by reducing dependence on glasses and avoiding the need for bifocals or reading specs. Surgeons in India will usually explain the pros and cons of each IOL type during your pre-operative consultation.

Cost Comparison: Phaco Surgery in India vs. Other Countries

Many international patients are surprised to learn that phaco cataract surgery in India costs 60% to 80% less than in developed nations, despite offering the same global-standard technology, FDA-approved intraocular lenses, and highly trained ophthalmic surgeons.

The difference in pricing is not due to lower quality, but because India’s healthcare ecosystem offers efficient, high-volume surgical setups, lower operational costs, and government-supported medical infrastructure.

Why the Cost is Lower in India Without Compromising Quality

• Lower doctor consultation and facility charges
• No hidden fees for consumables or diagnostics
• In-house manufacturing of some IOLs reduces import costs
• High surgery volumes allow optimized pricing
• Competitive medical tourism packages include lodging, airport transfers, and visa assistance.

What are the Factors Affecting Phaco Surgery Cost in India?

The total price for phacoemulsification cataract surgery in India varies due to several patient-specific and hospital-based factors. Understanding these will help you plan your budget and make informed choices when selecting your doctor, lens, and hospital.

• Type of Intraocular Lens (IOL): The IOL is the most significant cost component. A standard monofocal lens is affordable, while advanced lenses such as multifocal, trifocal, or toric IOLs raise the overall cost due to their premium quality and imported origin.
• Hospital Location and Infrastructure: Top-tier eye hospitals in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore may charge more than those in smaller towns. However, they often offer better diagnostic accuracy, advanced equipment like femtosecond lasers, and internationally trained surgeons.
• Surgeon’s Experience: Highly experienced ophthalmologists, especially those specializing in refractive and cataract procedures, may have higher consultation or surgical fees. However, their precision can improve surgical outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.
• Technology and Equipment Used: Facilities equipped with advanced machines, such as Zeiss, Alcon Centurion, or femtosecond laser-assisted systems, may charge more than conventional phaco units due to their superior precision and safety.

What International Patient Services Are Available in India?

India is one of the most convenient medical travel destinations for eye care, especially for patients from Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Dedicated international patient desks are available at most major hospitals.

• Visa invitation letters and travel support are provided upon confirmation of treatment
• Airport pickup and local transfers arranged by hospital concierge teams
• Budget and premium accommodation options, often within walking distance of the hospital
• Meal planning and assistance with dietary preferences (including Halal, vegetarian, diabetic)
• Interpreter services available in Arabic, French, Swahili, Bangla, Russian, and more
• 24/7 support staff to help with appointments, follow-ups, and city navigation
• Discharge summary and medical documents provided for return to your home doctor

Most patients spend 4–5 days in India for phacoemulsification surgery, including consultation, preoperative tests, surgery, and one to two follow-ups. Healing is fast, and air travel is usually safe within 2–3 days after surgery.

Testimonials: Cataract Patients in India

Alisha O., Nigeria
"I couldn’t believe how fast and smooth the process was. I came to Delhi for my mother’s cataract surgery. The Sight Avenue arranged everything from airport pickup to hotel booking. Within 48 hours of surgery, my mother was able to read again. Thank you, Dr. Suraj Munjal!"

Ahmed B., Iraq
"Back home, the cost of multifocal cataract surgery was beyond our budget. In India, I received world-class treatment with premium lenses at half the cost. The team even arranged an Arabic-speaking coordinator who stayed with me throughout."

James K., Kenya
"My vision was blurry for years due to cataracts. I finally decided to fly to India, and I’m glad I did. The surgery was painless, and my vision is now crystal clear. I only wish I had done it sooner!