Essential Health Insurance for Cataract Surgery: Why You Can't Afford to Skip It

• Written by Nidhi Goyal

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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100 million eyes have been affected by cataracts. Cataracts are not just tired eyes. They are the fading light that makes the world dull. Smoking, obesity, increasing age, exposure to direct sunlight, and any eye surgery or injury in the past are the risk factors for cataracts. Regular eye exams, eating a healthy diet, and managing other health problems help to reduce the possibility of cataracts. Let us understand more about the disease below.

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a dense, cloudy area in the eye's lens. As a person ages, the lens tissues of the eyes become thicker and lose their transparency and flexibility. Cataracts develop slowly and can eventually interfere with vision. Cataracts can develop in both eyes, and the lens may also turn yellowish due to the buildup of protein mass. Cataracts develop slowly, and a person may not notice them until there is a noticeable difficulty seeing. 

They can lead to vision obstruction, causing a person to have difficulty seeing clearly, with everything appearing darker and blurred.

What are the Signs & Symptoms of Cataracts?

Cataracts impact daily activities like driving, reading, or recreational activities.

With clouding of the eye lens, the patient might notice the following symptoms:

• Blurred vision
• Difficulty with night vision
• Increase in sensitivity to brightness
• Halos around lights
• Double vision in affected eyes
• Colours appear to be faded or yellowish
• Frequent changes in eyeglasses

Who Is at Risk for Cataracts?

Cataracts are generally an age-related health problem, but certain risk factors can cause younger individuals to develop them as well. Risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, eye injury, surgery or inflammation, excessive alcohol consumption, and family medical history. Additionally, excessive exposure to sunlight or ionising radiation, vitamin deficiency, or long-term use of corticosteroid medicines can contribute to cataract development.

When is Surgery Necessary?

Cataracts cannot be rectified with glasses, contact lenses, medicines or eye drops. The only solution is surgical removal. However, having cataracts does not mean you immediately have surgery done. The symptoms vary with the person. Surgery is typically recommended when the affected individual is unable to perform daily tasks.

In advanced stages, cataracts can harden, making them more difficult to remove. Ignoring the condition may cause other problems, like inflammation or glaucoma. Hence, it is advisable to speak to the doctor to determine the right time for surgery.

What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a surgical procedure to remove the clouded lens inside the eye that is causing decreased or blurred vision and replace it with an artificial lens implant.

As we age, the proteins in the eye's natural lens can break down, causing it to become hazy, cloudy, or opaque—a condition known as cataracts. 

During cataract eye surgery, an ophthalmologist makes a tiny incision in the eye to extract the clouded lens. The lens is then replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure only takes 10-15 minutes, is done on an outpatient basis, and has an excellent success rate with few complications. 

Pre

Certain preparations may be recommended in the hours and days before cataract removal to ensure a smooth surgical experience. Typically, patients are asked to 

• avoid all food and fluids for around 12 hours before the procedure to help reduce risks during anaesthesia.
• Take prescribed medications, especially blood thinners, to minimize potential bleeding issues.
• Consult your doctor for your diet.

Note: Disclose all supplements and prescriptions to your doctor.

After the Surgery

Once the surgery is completed, patients are allowed to return home on the day of the procedure. It is important to take extra precautions in the first week after surgery. However:

• Self-driving is prohibited until the next follow-up.
• Wear an eye shield or sunglasses.
• Avoid bending, heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.
• Avoid wearing eye makeup for at least 4 weeks. 
• Avoid smoking, as it can delay healing and negatively impact your eye health. 

The cost of cataract surgery can range from INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 depending on the hospital, surgeon's fees, complications, and type of surgery.

Benefits of Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery allows one to enjoy the world in full colour. For most patients-

• Vision is significantly improved
• Vivid details are seen again with ease
• Glare sensitivity is significantly reduced
• It enables safer night-time driving
• Vibrant colour perception returns

What are the Risks of Cataract Surgery?

Like any other surgery, cataract surgery may also pose several risks, including:

• Eye infection
• Bleeding in the eye
• Ongoing swelling of the front or inside of the eye
• Swelling of the retina
• Detached retina
• Damage to other eye parts
• Pain that is not relieved by over-the-counter (OTC) medication
• Blurred vision
• Seeing halos, glare, and shadows
• Vision loss
• IOL dislocation, moving out of position

Common Types of Cataract Surgery

Here are some of the most popular types of cataract surgery:

Intracapsular Cataract Surgery

Intracapsular cataract surgery involves removing the entire lens and its surrounding capsule through a larger incision. Due to its higher risk of complications compared to advanced techniques, intracapsular surgery is rarely used today.

Phacoemulsification

Phacoemulsification is a type of surgery in which an ultrasonic probe is inserted through a small 2-3mm incision. It uses vibrations to dislodge the cataract and suction to remove the lens pieces, enabling the installation of a foldable lens. This precise method typically results in a minor wound that heals without sutures.

Femtosecond Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery

FLACS uses a laser to create the incision and soften the cataract instead of manual methods. This requires less phacoemulsification energy and promotes faster healing. The laser can make an arcuate incision to correct astigmatism by shaping the cornea, reducing post-operative glasses dependence. However, FLACS is more costly than traditional techniques.

Manual Extracapsular Cataract Surgery 

MECS uses a larger 9-13mm incision to remove the lens and insert an IOL. The increased incision size with MECS increases risks compared to phacoemulsification. However, it remains a common option globally due to its affordability.

Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery

MSICS uses a small incision shaped like a “V" for lens removal during cataract surgery. The incision is narrower externally at 6.5 - 7 mm but wider internally up to 11mm. Studies found that while phacoemulsification may provide better short-term results in the first 3 months post-op, MSICS and phacoemulsification deliver similar long-term outcomes with comparable risks. A key advantage of MSICS is its lower cost compared to phacoemulsification.

Best Ways to Prevent Cataracts

• Nutrient-rich Foods: Foods rich in antioxidants, including Vitamins C and E, are known to prevent cataracts or slow their growth. Therefore, include fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts rich in vitamin E, such as almonds.
• Regular Eye Check-ups: Routine eye check-ups are the best way to detect eye disorders early and prevent complications. In addition to cataracts, routine check-ups can also reveal signs of glaucoma and other vision problems.
• Protection from Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight harms the eyes and may increase the risk of cataracts. Therefore, wear protective gear such as a hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
• Keeping Diabetes under Check: Diabetics are at higher risk of developing cataracts. Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can also cause other vision problems.
• Quit Unhealthy Habits: Smoking and excessive alcohol intake are also risk factors for cataracts.

What Affects Cataract Surgery Cost in India?

In the past few years, there has been a sudden rise in the number of cataract surgeries in India. The cost of cataract surgery may range from INR 20,000 to INR 50,000, depending on the hospital, surgeon's fees, complications, and the type of surgery. The actual amount for cataract surgery may differ substantially based on different factors, including:

• Place and hospital for surgery
• Complications during surgery that require hospitalisation and observation
• Skill, reputation, and experience of the surgeon
• Types of IOL (intraocular lens)
• Laser Cataract Surgery
• Pre- and post-operative visits
• Post-operative medications and care
• Pre- and post-operative diagnoses

How is the Best Health Insurance helpful?

Care Health Insurance offers comprehensive coverage, including cataract surgery under daycare treatments (no sub-limits, depending on the plan). After a waiting period, you can claim surgery expenses. Take a look at its benefits:

• Pre- and post-hospitalisation expenses, in-patient hospitalisation, daycare treatment, domiciliary hospitalisation, ambulance expenses, and advanced treatment methods.
• It provides a cashless hospitalisation facility at network hospitals with global coverage, a daily allowance, vaccination coverage, a second opinion option, a no-claim bonus, coverage for alternative treatments, and organ donor coverage.
• It offers optional coverage for an international second opinion, a no-claim bonus super, OPD care, and a reduction in the PED waiting period.
• Special features include lifelong renewability, a recharge of the sum insured, and an annual health check-up.
• Tax benefits under Section 80D.
• It is available online in just a few clicks.
• Affordable premium.

Choose Health Insurance for Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery costs in India range from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 1,00,000, depending on location, lens type, and procedure. Advanced treatments can cost around Rs. 60,000 per eye. The surgery is safe with a high success rate, and most patients can return home the same day. Health insurance for aging parents covers both daycare and post-surgery expenses. Care Health Insurance offers easy claims for cataract surgery with added benefits.

Avail health insurance for parents through Care Health Insurance and get easy claim settlement for cataract surgery along with a host of benefits.

Suggestion!

Your eyes are priceless, and their care should never be compromised. While cataract surgery costs rise, the right health insurance can ease the financial strain, ensuring you receive the best treatment without worry. Protect your vision and secure your future—get insured today for the care you deserve.

Disclaimer: Underwriting of claim for Cataract is subject to policy terms and conditions.