Glaucoma Surgery Cost In India

This blog, “Glaucoma Surgery Cost In India,” aims to guide you in navigating the often perplexing world of glaucoma surgery expenses. We understand that making informed decisions about your health is of utmost importance. So, whether you’re a resident of India or someone considering travelling to this vibrant country for glaucoma surgery, this blog will provide a comprehensive and unique insight into the various aspects of glaucoma surgery costs in India.

In recent years, India has emerged as a beacon of hope for individuals seeking affordable and high-quality healthcare solutions. With its advanced medical facilities, skilled ophthalmologists, & competitive pricing, India has become a preferred destination for those searching for effective glaucoma surgeries. However, like any medical procedure, understanding the financial aspects of glaucoma surgery in India is crucial.

We will delve into the several factors that influence the cost of glaucoma surgery in India, such as the type of surgery, the choice of medical facility, and geographical location. Moreover, we’ll also discuss the reasons behind the affordability of these procedures without compromising on quality. Through this detailed exploration, you’ll learn to make a well-informed decision regarding your glaucoma treatment.

Our blog is designed to simplify the complexities of glaucoma surgery costs in India. We will offer practical advice on researching and choosing the right healthcare provider, share success stories from individuals who have undergone glaucoma surgery in India, and provide insights into the post-operative care and recovery process. Ultimately, we aim to empower you with the information you need to make the best decision for your eye health, ensuring that a world filled with vibrant colours and beautiful sights remains within your reach.

Glaucoma Surgery Cost In India

Glaucoma surgery cost in India varies depending on several factors, such as the city, the hospital, the surgeon, the type of surgery, and the insurance coverage. The average cost of glaucoma surgery in India ranges from Rs. 26,000 to Rs. 1,70,000. However, this is only an approximate figure, and the actual price may differ from case to case.

Factors Affecting Glaucoma Surgery Cost In India

The cost of glaucoma surgery in India can vary widely depending on several factors. Here are some factors that can affect the cost of glaucoma surgery in India:

1. Type of Glaucoma Surgery: The cost of glaucoma surgery can vary depending on the type of procedure required. Common types of glaucoma surgeries include trabeculectomy, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), and glaucoma drainage device implantation, among others. More complex procedures may be more expensive.

2. Surgeon’s Expertise: The experience and reputation of the ophthalmic surgeon performing the surgery can significantly influence the cost. Highly experienced and renowned surgeons may charge higher fees for their services.

3. Hospital or Clinic: The choice of healthcare facility where the surgery can impact the cost. Larger, more advanced hospitals with state-of-the-art equipment may charge higher fees than smaller clinics or public hospitals.

4. Geographic Location: The cost of healthcare services in India can differ from one region to another. Major metropolitan cities tend to have higher living costs and healthcare expenses, which can be reflected in the price of glaucoma surgery.

5. Type of Anesthesia: The type of anaesthesia used during the surgery can affect the overall cost. General anaesthesia tends to be more expensive than local or regional anaesthesia.

6. Preoperative and Postoperative Care: Costs may include preoperative evaluations, postoperative medications, follow-up appointments, and additional treatments, which can vary based on the individual’s needs and the surgeon’s recommendations.

7. Medical Insurance: If you have health insurance that covers glaucoma surgery, it can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket expenses. Be sure to check your policy’s coverage and network of healthcare providers.

8. Additional Costs: Additional costs may be related to diagnostic tests, medical imaging, or speciality equipment that may be required during the surgery.

9. Government Subsidies: Some government healthcare programs or initiatives may offer subsidies or discounts on glaucoma surgery, which can make the procedure more affordable.

10. Choice of Implants or Devices: In cases where glaucoma drainage devices are used, the choice of the device and its brand can influence the cost. Some may be more expensive than others.

11. Complications and Follow-up Care: In some cases, complications may arise after surgery, requiring additional medical attention. These unexpected costs can impact the overall expense of the surgery.

It’s essential to consult with an ophthalmologist or a glaucoma specialist to assess your specific condition and determine the most appropriate treatment. They can also provide a more accurate cost estimate based on your circumstances. Additionally, it’s a good idea to inquire about available payment options & any financial assistance programs that may be available to help cover the cost of glaucoma surgery in India.

Cost Of Different Types Of Glaucoma Surgery in India

There are different types of glaucoma surgery, depending on the type and severity of glaucoma, the patient’s condition and preference, and the surgeon’s expertise. Some common types of glaucoma surgery are:

– Iridotomy: This laser procedure creates a small hole in the iris (the coloured area of the eye) to allow fluid to drain behind it and lower the eye pressure. It is usually done for angle-closure glaucoma, which occurs when the eye’s drainage angle becomes blocked by the iris.

– Trabeculoplasty: This laser procedure stimulates the trabecular meshwork (the tissue that removes fluid from the eye) to improve its function and lower eye pressure. It is usually done for open-angle glaucoma, which develops when the drainage angle of the eye is open, but the fluid does not drain properly.

– Filtering surgery: This surgical procedure creates a new opening in the sclera to allow fluid to bypass the trabecular meshwork and drain into a small reservoir under the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the eye). The reservoir is called a bleb, which looks like a small bubble on the eye’s surface. This surgery is also known as trabeculectomy or sclerostomy. It is usually done for advanced or uncontrolled glaucoma that does not respond to medication or laser treatment.

– Drainage implant surgery: This surgical procedure inserts a small tube or shunt into the eye to divert fluid from the anterior chamber (the space between the cornea and the iris) to a plate or reservoir under the conjunctiva. The plate or reservoir collects the fluid and allows it to be absorbed by the surrounding tissues. This surgery is also known as tube shunt surgery or aqueous shunt surgery. It is usually done for complex or refractory glaucoma that other methods cannot treat.

The average cost of glaucoma surgery in India ranges from Rs. 26,000 to Rs. 1,70,000. However, this is only an approximate figure and may differ from one case to another.

Type of Glaucoma Surgery	Average Cost (Rs.)	Minimum Cost (Rs.)	Maximum Cost (Rs.)
Iridotomy	20,000	10,000	30,000
Trabeculoplasty	25,000	5,000	35,000
Filtering surgery	35,000	25,000	50,000
Drainage implant surgery	50,000	40,000	75,000

These costs are only indicative, and they may not include other expenses such as pre-surgery tests, post-surgery medications, hospital stays, follow-up visits, etc. Therefore, you should consult your doctor for a detailed estimate before glaucoma surgery.

Cost Of Diagnostic Tests Before Glaucoma Surgery In India

Before glaucoma surgery, the patient must undergo a comprehensive eye examination to determine the extent of vision impairment and damage to the ocular system. The eye examination may include the following tests:

– Dilated Eye Exam: This test involves dilating the pupils with eye drops and examining the retina & optic nerve with a special magnifying lens. This test helps to detect any signs of damage or abnormality in the back of the eye. The cost of a dilated eye exam in India ranges from Rs. 300 to Rs. 800.

– Gonioscopy: This test involves placing a special contact lens on the eye and using a slit lamp microscope to examine the drainage angle of the eye. This test helps to determine the type of glaucoma and the degree of blockage in the drainage system. The cost of gonioscopy in India ranges from Rs. 300 to Rs. 600.

– OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): This test involves using a device that emits light waves to create a detailed image of the retina and optic nerve. This diagnostic test helps to measure the thickness of the nerve fibre layer and detect any signs of thinning or loss due to glaucoma. The cost of OCT in India ranges from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 2,500 per eye.

– Ocular Pressure Test: This test involves using a tonometer to measure the pressure inside the eye. This test helps to diagnose glaucoma and monitor its progression. The cost of an ocular pressure test in India ranges from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 1,600.

– Visual Field Test: This test uses a perimeter device to measure the patient’s peripheral vision. The patient is asked to look at a central point and indicate when they see flashes of light in different areas of their visual field. This test helps detect blind spots or areas of reduced vision due to glaucoma. The cost of a visual field test in India ranges from Rs. 750 to Rs. 950 per eye.

– Pachymetry: This test involves a pachymeter to measure the thickness of the cornea, which is the clear front part of the eye. This test helps to adjust the ocular pressure readings and assess the risk of developing glaucoma. The cost of pachymetry in India ranges from Rs. 500 per eye.

The total cost of diagnostic tests before glaucoma surgery in India may differ depending on the number and type of tests required and the location and quality of the eye clinic or hospital. The average cost of diagnostic tests before glaucoma surgery in India is around Rs. 1,500.

Post-Operative Cost for Glaucoma Surgery

After undergoing glaucoma surgery, you will need to follow some post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and prevent complications. These instructions may include:

– Using eye drops or ointments as suggested by your physician

– Avoiding rubbing or touching your eyes

– Wearing an eye shield or sunglasses to protect your eyes from dust or light

– Avoiding strenuous activities or heavy lifting

– Keeping your head elevated while sleeping

– Visiting your doctor for regular follow-ups and check-ups

The cost of these post-operative care measures may vary depending on the type of surgery, the hospital and the city. The average cost of these measures in India may range from Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 15,000.

You will also need to continue taking some medications after the surgery, such as eye drops or oral pills, to lower your eye pressure and prevent infection or inflammation. The cost of these medications may depend on the brand and dosage. The average cost of these medications in India may range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2,000. Therefore, the total post-operative cost for glaucoma surgery in India may vary from Rs. 5,500 to Rs. 17,000.

Can Glaucoma Be Cured With Surgery?

There is no cure for glaucoma, but it can be ministered to slow down or prevent further damage to the eye. Glaucoma treatment primarily aims to lower the eye pressure & protect the optic nerve. There are different types of glaucoma treatment, such as eye drops, oral medications, laser therapy, and surgery.

Surgery is usually considered a last resort for glaucoma treatment when other methods have failed or are unsuitable. Surgery can help lower eye pressure by creating a new drainage channel for the fluid to exit the eye or by reducing the amount of fluid produced by the eye. However, surgery does not guarantee that glaucoma will be cured or that vision will be restored. Surgery also carries some risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, scarring, inflammation, cataracts, or loss of vision.

Therefore, surgery is not a cure for glaucoma but a way to manage it and prevent further damage. Surgery may improve the quality of life for some people with glaucoma, but it is not a permanent solution. People undergoing glaucoma surgery still need to use eye drops and have regular eye exams to monitor their condition and prevent further progression.

If you have glaucoma or are at risk of developing it, consult your eye doctor about the best treatment option.

Glaucoma Surgery Side Effects

While glaucoma surgery can be effective in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) and preventing further vision loss, like any medical procedure, it comes with potential side effects and risks. The specific side effects and complications can vary depending on the type of glaucoma surgery performed. Here are some common side effects associated with different kinds of glaucoma surgery:

1. Conjunctival Redness and Irritation: After glaucoma surgery, you may experience redness, irritation, and discomfort in the eye. This is a common and usually temporary side effect.

2. Bleeding: Some bleeding may occur within the eye or under the conjunctiva. This can sometimes lead to a subconjunctival haemorrhage, which typically resolves independently.

3. Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection. Eye infections following glaucoma surgery can be severe and may require prompt treatment with antibiotics.

4. Inflammation: Inflammation within the eye, also known as uveitis, can occur after glaucoma surgery. This is typically treated with anti-inflammatory medications.

5. Corneal Edema: Swelling of the cornea can occur, leading to blurry or distorted vision. This is usually temporary and resolves with time.

6. Cataract Formation: In some cases, glaucoma surgery can accelerate the development of cataracts, leading to clouded vision. If cataracts develop, they may require separate surgery to remove and replace the cloudy lens.

7. Hypotony: This is a condition where the eye pressure becomes too low, which can lead to blurry vision, discomfort, and other complications. In some cases, hypotony may require further treatment or surgery.

8. Hyphema: A hyphema is the presence of blood in the eye’s anterior chamber. It can occur after glaucoma surgery and may require monitoring and treatment.

9. Endophthalmitis: This is a rare but serious infection within the eye that can lead to vision loss. It requires immediate medical attention.

10. Scarring: Scar tissue can form around the surgical site, affecting the function of the drainage system in the eye. In some cases, additional procedures may be needed to address scarring.

11. Failure to Lower Intraocular Pressure: In some cases, glaucoma surgery may not effectively lower intraocular pressure and additional treatments or surgeries may be necessary.

It’s important to note that the choice of glaucoma surgery and the risk of specific side effects depend on the individual’s eye condition, the surgeon’s expertise, and other factors. Before undergoing glaucoma surgery, your eye doctor will discuss the potential risks & benefits with you and alternative treatment options. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects following glaucoma surgery, it’s crucial to contact your eye surgeon or ophthalmologist promptly for evaluation and appropriate management.

Success Rate Of Glaucoma Surgery

The success rate of glaucoma surgery is based on many factors, like the type of surgery, the type of glaucoma, the severity of your condition, your age, your general health, your compliance with post-operative care, and your doctor’s experience.

As per a recent survey among the members of the Glaucoma Society of India (GSI), trabeculectomy with or without mitomycin C was the first-choice glaucoma incisional surgery for 96.6% of the participants, and the success rate of this procedure was reported to be 85-90%. For tube shunt surgery, the use of valved devices was preferred by 83.4% of the participants, and the success rate of this procedure was reported to be 70-80%. 

For laser iridotomy surgery, a study showed that the success rate of lowering eye pressure by 20% was approximately 60-70%. For laser trabeculoplasty surgery, a study showed that the success rate of lowering eye pressure by 20% was around 75-85%.

What Is Glaucoma Surgery?

Glaucoma surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures performed to treat and manage glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that can lead to increased intraocular pressure (pressure within the eye) & damage to the optic nerve. This damage to the optic nerve can cause vision loss &, if left untreated, can cause blindness. Glaucoma surgery is typically considered when other treatments, such as medications or laser therapy, have not effectively controlled the disease.

Glaucoma surgery aims to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. However, it’s essential to consult with an ophthalmologist or glaucoma specialist to determine the most appropriate surgical approach for an individual’s specific condition. Glaucoma surgery carries risks and benefits, and the choice of procedure should be made based on a careful evaluation of the patient’s needs and circumstances. After surgery, patients may need to be closely monitored and continue to use medications or other treatments to manage their glaucoma.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of glaucoma surgery in the country is remarkably affordable compared to many Western nations, making it a viable option for those seeking effective treatment for this sight-threatening condition without breaking the bank.

India’s healthcare system has made significant advancements in the field of ophthalmology, offering world-class surgical facilities and well-trained medical professionals specialising in glaucoma treatment. This ensures that patients receive top-notch care and expertise while undergoing surgery, thus increasing the chances of a successful outcome.

The blog also highlights the importance of considering various factors that can influence the cost of glaucoma surgery in India, such as the type of surgery, the choice of hospital, the surgeon’s experience, and the geographical location. By addressing these factors, potential patients can make informed decisions and find the most suitable option that aligns with their budget and needs.

In summary, the blog provides a comprehensive overview of India’s glaucoma surgery cost landscape, highlighting affordability, high-quality healthcare services, and various factors that influence the overall expenses. It encourages individuals to explore the option of glaucoma surgery in India as a cost-effective and viable solution for managing this eye condition while maintaining their vision and overall quality of life.

Glaucoma surgery is often expensive, making it financially burdensome for many individuals. A crowdfunding platform offers a solution by enabling people to reach out to a vast network of potential donors who can contribute even small amounts, collectively covering the costs.