Cataract surgery can be a life-changing event for patients. It is one of the most common surgeries performed, and it can restore vision to people who are seeing problems with their vision due to age or other factors. In this article, we will discuss all you need to know about cataract surgery costs, including the different types of surgery and their associated costs.
What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a procedure to remove the lens of your eye and, in most cases, replace it with an artificial intraocular lens.
Cataract surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure, which means you don’t have to stay overnight in the hospital. There are many types of intraocular lenses, and your eye surgeon will help you choose the one that is best for you.
Cataract surgery is generally very successful. Most people who have cataract surgery have much better vision afterward. More than 90% of people who have cataract surgery experience a significant improvement in their vision. There can also be some risks associated with cataract surgery, but these are usually very minor and temporary.
How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost?
Cataract surgery is a common procedure that can help improve your vision. Costs vary depending on the type of procedure, but on average, cataract surgery costs around 60000. Here’s an overview of what to expect and what to budget for when you have cataract surgery.
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that usually takes about an hour. Your surgeon will remove your cataracts with a surgical tool called a laser. The surgery may also include removing the clouded lens of your eye.
The cost of cataract surgery ranges from 60000 to 12,0000. This is depending on the type of procedure and your insurance coverage. You should budget for all medical costs associated with the surgery, including travel and accommodation.
Factors Impacting Cataract Surgery Costs
When you are considering cataract surgery, it is important to understand the factors that impact the cost of the procedure. Here are some key factors to consider:
Age of Patient
The older a patient is, the more likely they are to have other health conditions that will increase the surgical costs. Cataract surgery is not typically recommended for patients over age 65.
Type of Cataract
The type of cataract a patient has will also impact the cost of surgery. If a cataract is in an easily treatable area, such as the lens inside the eye, the surgery may be less expensive than if the cataract is in a more complex location, such as behind the lens of the eye.
Location of Cataract
The location of a cataract will also affect costs. If it is in an easily accessible area, such as on the surface of the eye, surgery may be less expensive than if it is located deep within the eye. However, if a cataract is very large or situated in a difficult-to-access area, surgery may be more expensive.
Type of Surgery
There are three types of cataract surgery: open, endoscopic, and laser. Open surgery is the most common type and involves removing the entire cataract with a surgical knife. Endoscopic surgery uses a small camera that is inserted through the nose and into the eye to view the inside of the eye. Laser surgery uses a beam of light to remove the cataract.
Medical Conditions Associated With Cataracts
If a patient has other health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, their medical costs may also increase during and after surgery. Sometimes, medications that are needed after surgery are also expensive.
Insurance Coverage
Some insurance companies cover part or all of the cost of cataract surgery, depending on the patient’s coverage limits. If you are not covered by your insurance, you may be able to receive financial assistance through a program.
Costs Associated with Travel
If you live far from the doctor who will perform your surgery, costs associated with travel may be involved. In addition, if you have to stay overnight in a hospital after surgery, costs associated with hotel accommodations and other expenses may also be incurred.
Type of Lens Used
One of the main factors that impact the cost of cataract surgery is the type of lens used. There are three main types of lenses: monofocal, multifocal, and extended depth of focus. Monofocal lenses are the most and least expensive option. Multifocal lenses are more expensive, but they allow patients to see at multiple distances without needing glasses or contact lenses. Extended depth of focus lenses are the most expensive option, but they provide a wider range of vision than other types of lenses.
Out-of-Pocket Costs
The final factor that can impact the cost of cataract surgery is out-of-pocket costs. This includes things like deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Out-of-pocket costs will vary depending on your insurance coverage. If you have insurance, it is important to check with your insurer to see what out-of-pocket costs you will be responsible for.
How To Reduce Cataract Surgery Costs
Choosing a cataract surgery option is an important decision. There are many factors to consider, including the type of procedure, the surgeon, and where you are having the surgery performed.
The following tips can help you reduce your cataract surgery costs.
1. Talk to your surgeon about potential cost-saving techniques. Some surgeons may be able to perform a less invasive cataract surgery procedure or use less expensive equipment. Ask about these options before making your decision.
2. Compare prices before choosing a surgeon. There are many reputable surgeons out there who charge different rates for different procedures. Do your research to find the best deal for you.
3. Consider using a health insurance plan that covers cataract surgery costs. Many health insurance plans offer discounts or credits for procedures that are considered preventive care, such as cataract surgery. Check with your insurer to see if this applies to you.
4. Expect to pay some extra expenses after your cataract surgery. This includes fees for anesthesia and post-operative care, as well as any medication or supplements required during recovery. Save money by being prepared for these costs ahead of time. Also, ask your surgeon about possible payment plans.
5. Ask your friends and family members for financial help. Many people are willing to lend a hand when it comes to expensive medical procedures. Ask if they would be willing to contribute money towards your surgery costs, or help with post-operative expenses.
After Cataract Surgery Costs
Other than the price of the surgery, other costs come along with cataract surgery. These can include:
The cost of new glasses or contact lenses
The cost of new glasses is one of the after-cataract surgery costs that is often forgotten. Most people will need a new prescription for either glasses or contact lenses after surgery. The cost of these will depend on your insurance coverage and the type of lenses you choose.
An increase in health insurance premiums
Some health insurers may consider cataract surgery to be a pre-existing condition. This means that they could raise your premiums after surgery. It’s important to check with your insurer before having surgery to see if this is a possibility. There may be other after-cataract surgery costs that are not covered by insurance.
The cost of transportation and lodging
If you live far from the hospital or surgeon’s office, you may have to pay for transportation and lodging during your stay. This can add up quickly, so it’s important to factor this in when considering cataract surgery.
Medications prescribed by doctors
Another additional cost is the medications that a doctor prescribes post-surgery. These could include:
- eye drops to help with inflammation and pain
- pills to help with nausea
- antibiotics to prevent infection
The cost of these will depend on your insurance coverage and the pharmacy you use.
Conclusion
Cataract surgery is a life-saving procedure that can help people see better. If you are considering cataract surgery, it is important to understand the costs involved. This article provides an overview of all of the factors that affect the cost of cataract surgery, including hospital fees, surgeon fees, and anesthesia costs. By understanding these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether or not cataract surgery is right for you.
Cataract surgery is a safe and painless procedure. At EyeMantra we have a team of experienced eye surgeons, who will be happy to answer your any questions on cataract surgery, cataract surgery cost, cataract lens cost for different cataract surgery types- Phacoemulsification, MICS & Femto Laser Cataract. Call us at +91-9711116605 or email at [email protected] for inquiries.
+91-9711116605
