What is the cataract surgery cost in Narayana Health

Narayana Nethralaya does not publish a public tariff. The cost for a given patient depends on two decisions: the surgical technique (phacoemulsification, MICS, or FLACS) and the IOL choice (monofocal, toric, multifocal, or EDOF). The table below presents the complete pricing matrix built from HexaHealth’s Bangalore patient database and NABH private eye hospital market benchmarks.

* All prices are per eye. Narayana Nethralaya does not publish a public tariff. Figures are market benchmarks for NABH private eye hospitals in Bangalore, consistent with a Quora patient report of ~₹35,000 for standard NN phacoemulsification. Actual costs depend on IOL brand (Indian vs imported), pre-operative diagnostics, surgeon seniority, and co-existing conditions.

Always confirm the itemised estimate at your NN pre-operative consultation or through HexaHealth.

Not sure whether you need FLACS, MICS, or standard phacoemulsification or which IOL type fits your lifestyle?

Talk to a HexaHealth Eye Care Expert (free).

We review your pre-operative biometry report, match you to the right NN surgeon, and confirm the cost for your specific case before you commit.

All cataract surgery at NN removes the eye’s cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). What varies is the tool and technique used to remove that lens. The choice affects precision, recovery speed, and cost.

Phacoemulsification (Phaco)

₹25,000 – ₹1,10,000 per eye (IOL-dependent)

The gold standard worldwide. A 2.4–2.8mm incision at the corneal edge allows an ultrasonic probe to emulsify the cloudy lens into fragments, which are aspirated out. A foldable IOL is inserted through the same small, self-sealing incision. No sutures required. Performed under topical anaesthesia (eyedrops only — no injections) as a 15–20 minute daycare procedure. NN performs this at high volume with outcomes presented at APACRS, ASCRS, and ARVO annually.

Daycare, home by midday · Vision improving within 24–48 hours

Minimally Invasive

MICS (Micro Incision Cataract Surgery)

₹45,000 – ₹1,50,000 per eye (IOL-dependent)

A refinement of phacoemulsification using a sub-2mm incision (vs 2.4–2.8mm for standard phaco). The micro-wound heals faster, induces less surgical astigmatism, and reduces wound-related complications. Preferred when a premium toric or multifocal IOL is chosen because incision precision directly affects the IOL’s rotational positioning and optical outcome. NN’s phacoemulsification training programme specifically teaches MICS technique.

Daycare · Faster healing than standard phaco

FLACS Femtosecond Laser (LenSx)

₹60,000 – ₹1,50,000+ per eye

NN performs FLACS on the LenSx platform, a computer-controlled femtosecond laser that automates the most technically demanding steps: corneal incisions, capsulotomy (the opening in the lens capsule), and nucleus softening. Because the lens is pre-softened by the laser, significantly less ultrasonic energy is needed during phaco reducing thermal and mechanical stress on surrounding structures. NN specifically highlights: lesser collateral damage, faster healing and improved visual outcomes. Strongly recommended for patients choosing EDOF or multifocal IOLs, where capsulotomy precision determines optical quality.

Daycare · Laser step + OT phaco step on same day

Complicated Cataract Surgery

₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000+ case-dependent

NN is one of South India’s principal referral centres for complex cases: post-traumatic cataracts (damaged capsule, distorted anatomy), phacomorphic glaucoma (dense cataract causing elevated eye pressure), cataracts with co-existing glaucoma / AMD / diabetic retinopathy / uveitis / corneal scars / retinitis pigmentosa, childhood cataracts, cataracts in patients with learning disabilities, and previously operated eyes with complications. The research labs and full subspecialty departments (retina, glaucoma, cornea, uveitis, neuro-ophthalmology) on site mean complex multi-system cases are managed in a single institution.

May require GA for some paediatric case

The IOL is the artificial lens implanted permanently after the cataract is removed. The IOL choice is the single biggest variable in both the total cost and the quality of vision after surgery at NN. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, occupation, presence of astigmatism, and whether you want independence from glasses for reading and computer work.

Monofocal IOL

Included in base package

Corrects vision at a single distance — usually set for distance. Excellent clarity at that focal distance. Reading glasses needed for close work. Covered by most insurance policies as the medically standard lens.

Best for: Patients happy with distance vision + reading glasses

Toric IOL

₹15,000–₹30,000 additional over monofocal

Single-focus lens with built-in cylinder correction for corneal astigmatism. Eliminates both cataract and astigmatism in one procedure. Still requires reading glasses for near work, but distance quality is significantly better than a standard monofocal in an astigmatic eye.

Best for: Patients with moderate to high corneal astigmatism

Glasses-Free Vision

Multifocal / Trifocal IOL

₹35,000–₹70,000 additional per eye

Multiple focal zones built into the lens near, intermediate, and far. Most patients achieve full glasses independence.

Trade-off: some experience glare or halos around lights at night initially (usually reduces over 3–6 months). NN’s official IOL page notes these are not recommended if you do a lot of night driving.

Best for: Active patients wanting glasses independence for all distances

Balanced · Fewer Side Effects

EDOF IOL (Extended Depth of Focus)

₹30,000–₹60,000 additional per eye

NN confirms three specific EDOF brands: Alcon Vivity IOL, Tecnis Eyhance IOL, and Zeiss AT LARA. Excellent distance + good intermediate (computer, dashboard) with fewer halos and glare than multifocal. Fine-print reading may still need glasses. Suitable for eyes with low astigmatism.

Best for: Patients wanting reduced glare vs multifocal + good computer vision

Advanced Premium

Premium Toric IOL

₹40,000–₹80,000 additional per eye

Combines astigmatism correction with multifocal or EDOF optics. Optimal for patients who have both astigmatism and want glasses independence. Requires highly precise surgical technique, FLACS or experienced MICS is recommended for reliable toric axis alignment.

Best for: Astigmatism + desire for glasses-free lifestyle

Natural-Feel · All Distances

Accommodative IOL

₹35,000–₹65,000 additional per eye

Uses the natural movements of the eye’s ciliary muscles to shift focus, mimicking a young natural lens. Vision at all distances with a more natural feel than diffractive multifocal IOLs. Fewer halos and glare. NN specifically lists accommodative IOLs as a distinct category in its IOL portfolio.

Best for: Patients wanting natural-feeling multi-distance vision

How NN customises IOL selection for each patient. Dr Tejal SJ at Narayana Nethralaya specialises in advanced diagnostics for cataract surgery customisation confirmed in an official NN educational video on the cataract page. Pre-operative assessment includes biometry (IOL power calculation), corneal topography, wavefront analysis, and macular OCT.

These tests ensure the IOL with the most predictable visual outcome is chosen for your specific eye anatomy. Importing an expensive multifocal or EDOF IOL into an eye without this profiling is what causes disappointing outcomes at other hospitals. NN’s diagnostic depth is one reason international patients choose it for premium IOL surgery.

Surgical Technique

Standard phaco is the base cost tier. MICS adds a premium for micro instruments and IOL compatibility. FLACS adds the LenSx laser usage fee, the single biggest surgical cost add-on. The surgeon recommends the technique based on cataract density, capsule integrity, and IOL choice not as an upsell.

IOL Choice

The lens is the dominant cost variable. Standard monofocal is cheapest and insurance-covered. Premium imported multifocal or EDOF lenses add (₹35,000–₹70,000 )per eye. Indian-manufactured lenses in the same category cost less than imported European or American brands. NN offers a range across both.

Surgeon Seniority

A consultation with Dr. Naren Shetty (HOD Cataract, 27,000+ surgeries) carries a higher OPD fee than a senior consultant. For routine uncomplicated cataracts, NN’s senior consultants produce equivalent outcomes. For complex, high-risk, or premium-IOL cases, the most experienced surgeon reduces risk meaningfully.

Pre-Operative Investigations

Biometry (₹800–₹1,500), corneal topography (₹1,000–₹2,000), macular OCT if relevant (₹1,500–₹2,500), blood glucose. Premium IOL candidates need wavefront diagnostics. Budget ₹3,000–₹8,000 for the pre-operative workup billed separately from the surgical package.

Post-Operative Medications

Antibiotic + steroid + anti-inflammatory eyedrops for 4–6 weeks post-surgery. Typically (₹1,500–₹3,000) per eye dispensed from NN’s pharmacy. Not included in surgical package, budget this separately for both eyes.

Co-Existing Conditions

Cataracts in diabetic, glaucoma, or retinal disease eyes require more extensive pre-operative assessment and complex surgical protocols. Post-operative monitoring is more intensive. NN handles all co-existing subspecialties in-house, meaning no external referrals, but potentially higher episode cost for complex multi-system cases.

Dr Naren Shetty

Vice Chairman, Director,  Head of Cataract & Refractive Services
Rajajinagar Flagship Centre (Narayana Nethralaya)

• 27,000+ cataract and refractive surgeries performed
• MBBS (SDM Medical College, Dharwad) · MS Ophthalmology (RRMCH, Bangalore)
• PhD (Maastricht University, Netherlands, 2025)
• Advanced training: Moran Eye Center (USA), SNEC Singapore
• Expertise: LASIK, SMILE, SILK, Phakic IOL, premium IOLs (multifocal, trifocal, toric, EDOF)
• Research focus: Optical performance of natural & intraocular lenses in Asian-Indian eyes
• 44+ publications · 20+ clinical trials
• International presentations: ASCRS, APACRS, APAO, ESCRS, AIOC
• Major awards: APACRS Best Paper (2022, 2025), IIRSI Gold Medal (2023), BOA Focus Gold Medal (2025)

Dr Rohit Shetty

Vice Chairman, Director, Cornea & Refractive Surgery
Rajajinagar Flagship Centre (Narayana Nethralaya)

• MBBS · DNB (St. John’s Medical College) · FRCS (Glasgow)
• PhD (Maastricht University)
• FRCS Examiner (Glasgow)
• 200+ peer-reviewed publications
• Expertise: Corneal diseases, keratoconus, refractive surgery, tear film biomarkers
• Clinical relevance to cataract surgery: corneal assessment in post-refractive patients, advanced IOL power calculation (ASCRS/Barrett True-K methods)
• International academic leadership in dual PhD and clinical fellowship programs

Dr G K Venkatesh

Senior Ophthalmologist, Cataract & Premium IOL Specialist
Rajajinagar Centre (Narayana Nethralaya)

• Specialist in cataract surgery and premium intraocular lens counselling
• Known for high patient satisfaction and clear surgical guidance
• Actively involved in patient education on IOL options and outcomes
• Frequently featured in institutional cataract awareness programs

Dr Ravi Krishna

Senior Cataract Surgeon, International Patient Care
Rajajinagar Centre (Narayana Nethralaya)

• Expertise in high-volume cataract surgery
• Strong experience in international patient management
• Known for precise surgical outcomes and patient communication
• Consistently highlighted in patient feedback for cataract procedures

Dr Tejal SJ

Cataract Diagnostics Specialist, IOL Customisation Expert
Rajajinagar Centre (Narayana Nethralaya)

• Focus on pre-operative cataract diagnostics and lens planning
• Expertise in biometry, corneal topography, and wavefront analysis
• Critical role in premium IOL customization and refractive precision
• Key contributor to surgical outcome optimization protocols

Dr Rohitha Nayak

Cataract Surgeon, Ophthalmology Specialist
Rajajinagar Centre (Narayana Nethralaya)

• Specialises in routine and advanced cataract surgery
• Known for patient communication and post-operative care quality
• Consistently mentioned in cataract surgery patient feedback
• Part of core surgical team at Rajajinagar unit

Your Eye Test Shows Cataracts. What Happens at Narayana Nethralaya?

At Narayana Nethralaya, cataract surgery planning involves multiple steps:

• Surgeon and centre selection based on case complexity
• IOL type selection (standard, premium, toric, multifocal, EDOF)
• Insurance and TPA pre-authorisation support
• Cost estimation based on lens and surgical technique

Cataract surgery is typically a daycare procedure, where patients arrive in the morning and are discharged the same day after recovery monitoring.

A patient who had cataract surgery at NN confirmed the timeline on Quora: If you go early in the morning around 8am, by 12pm you can go back home. This four-hour window is possible because NN’s cataract programme is a protocol-driven, high-volume daycare system. Here is what happens step by step:

1. Arrival & Registration: 8:00 am, Pre-admission paperwork, consent forms, nursing assessment
2. Pupil Dilation Drops 8:30–9:30 am · Eyedrops dilate the pupil — 45–60 min wait
3. FLACS Laser Step If applicable · LenSx laser creates incisions & softens cataract (~10 min)
4. Surgery in OT Topical anaesthesia (eyedrops) · 15–20 minutes · No pain · IOL implanted
5. Recovery & Eye Shield 30–60 min recovery · Protective shield applied · Eyedrop prescription given
6. Discharge By 12:00 noon · Vision blur normal today · Clarity in 24–48 hours

Cataract surgery is covered by most Indian health insurance policies as a medically necessary daycare procedure. NN is empanelled with all major TPAs. Key points before your surgery date:

Standard monofocal IOL: Fully covered under most policies. Insurance considers this the medically standard lens — any premium upgrade (multifocal, EDOF, toric) is an out-of-pocket patient choice.

Premium IOLs: The base surgery may be covered; the premium lens cost difference is typically out-of-pocket. Confirm with your specific insurer.

Common Insurance Providers:

• Star Health Insurance
• HDFC ERGO General Insurance
• ICICI Lombard General Insurance
• Bajaj Allianz General Insurance
• Care Health Insurance
• Niva Bupa Health Insurance
• Aditya Birla Health Insurance

FLACS laser add-on: Usually not reimbursed separately, insurers typically cover the standard phacoemulsification procedure cost only. The FLACS premium is usually out-of-pocket.

Per-eye sub-limits: Many policies have sub-limits of ₹20,000–₹50,000 per eye for cataract. If your surgery with premium IOL costs ₹80,000 per eye, the insurer pays up to the sub-limit and you pay the balance. Always check your policy’s ophthalmic sub-limit before booking.

Cashless pre-authorisation: Required 3–5 days before surgery for cashless admission. HexaHealth manages this TPA process on your behalf.