Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness in India, accounting for 66.2% of blindness among people aged 50+ , according to the National Blindness & Visual Impairment Survey (2015–19). The good news? Cataract eye surgery is a safe, effective, and life-changing treatment that restores vision in over 95% of cases.
But not all cataracts or surgeries are the same.
At Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, we offer personalized cataract care using the latest surgical techniques and intraocular lens options. In this guide, we’ll explain the different types of cataract surgery, lens options, non-surgical aids, and how to choose what suits your eyes and lifestyle.
Why Cataract Surgery is Necessary
Cataracts cause the natural lens of the eye to become cloudy, leading to:
- Blurred or foggy vision
- Sensitivity to bright lights or glare
- Poor night vision
- Faded colours
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
In early stages, cataract eyeglasses or contact lenses may help, but cataract eye surgery becomes essential once cataracts interfere with daily life—like reading, driving, or recognizing faces. In India, millions delay surgery until vision loss becomes severe. Early diagnosis and timely treatment can prevent permanent blindness.
👉 Book an eye consultation at IHEC to detect cataracts early:- https://innocentheartseyecentre.com/book-appointment/
Eyeglasses and Contact Lenses for Cataracts: Temporary Relief
Before surgery becomes necessary, some people with early cataracts may find relief using stronger eyeglasses or contact lenses.
How they help:
- Correct blurry or distorted vision temporarily
- Improve contrast and reduce glare
- Allow safe functioning during early stages of cataracts
However, as cataracts progress, cataract eyeglasses and contact lenses cannot stop or reverse the clouding of your natural lens. You may notice:
- Constant prescription changes
- Double vision in one eye
- Difficulty seeing in low light even with glasses
When vision loss starts interfering with daily activities, eye surgery for cataracts becomes the only effective treatment.
Must read: https://innocentheartseyecentre.com/blog/motiyabind-kya-hota/
Major Types of Cataract Surgery
1. Phacoemulsification (Phaco Surgery)
Phacoemulsification is the most commonly performed cataract surgery and is considered the gold standard worldwide.
How it works:
- A micro-incision (2–3 mm) is made in the cornea.
- An ultrasound probe breaks the cloudy lens into small fragments.
- These are suctioned out.
- A foldable intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted to restore clear vision.
Advantages:
- Stitch-less, bladeless procedure
- Quick recovery (1–2 days)
- Minimal discomfort
- Low risk of cataract eye surgery complications
Learn more about Phaco Cataract Surgery at IHEC
2. Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE)
This traditional method is still used in certain advanced or complex cataract cases.
How it works:
- A larger incision (10–12 mm) is made in the eye.
- The lens is removed in one piece, leaving the back capsule intact.
- A rigid IOL is placed inside the eye.
Pros:
- Suitable for very hard, mature cataracts
- Can be performed in low-resource settings
Cons:
- Longer recovery time
- May need sutures
- Higher risk of inflammation
3. Intracapsular Cataract Extraction (ICCE)
Now rarely performed, this technique involves removing the entire lens and its capsule.
How it works:
- A large incision is made
- Entire lens is extracted
- IOL is placed in the anterior chamber
Risks: High chances of complications and poor stability.
Used only in: Specific, high-risk cases where other techniques are not possible.
4. Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (LACS)
Also known as Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery (FLACS), this is one of the most advanced cataract procedures today.
How it works:
- A laser performs critical steps like corneal incisions and lens fragmentation
- Reduces use of ultrasound
- Provides precision for premium lens placement
Benefits:
- Greater surgical accuracy
- Minimal trauma to surrounding tissues
- Excellent outcomes with premium IOLs
Ideal for: Patients seeking laser eye surgery for cataracts or a bladeless option
👉 Explore Laser Cataract Surgery at IHEC:- https://innocentheartseyecentre.com/lasik-eye-surgery-jalandhar/
Cost Considerations
Cataract surgery costs in India can vary depending on several factors:
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
| Type of surgery | Laser-assisted surgery costs more than conventional |
| Choice of IOL | Premium lenses (multifocal, toric, EDOF) cost more |
| Hospital/Clinic | Reputed, accredited centers may charge higher |
| City/Location | Costs are usually higher in metros than rural areas |
| Insurance coverage | May partially or fully cover surgery |
Average cost range: ₹12,000 to ₹65,000 per eye
Some hospitals offer cashless insurance, EMI options, or Ayushman Bharat coverage.
Types of Cataract Lenses (Intraocular Lenses or IOLs)
After cataract removal, a new lens is implanted inside the eye. Your choice of IOL directly impacts your vision post-surgery.
1. Monofocal IOLs
- Provide clear vision at one distance (usually far)
- You’ll still need reading glasses
- Covered by most insurance plans
- Ideal for patients comfortable with wearing cataract glasses
2. Multifocal IOLs
- Offer clear vision at multiple distances (near, intermediate, far)
- Reduce dependence on cataract eyeglasses
- May cause minor glare or halos at night
- Ideal for active lifestyles and tech-savvy patients
3. Toric IOLs
- Correct both cataract and astigmatism
- Provide sharper vision without glasses for distance
- Ideal for patients with corneal astigmatism
4. EDOF IOLs (Extended Depth of Focus)
- Provide a continuous range of vision
- Fewer night vision issues than multifocal IOLs
- A great middle-ground between monofocal and multifocal lenses
🎯 Talk to our eye specialists to choose the right lens for your eyes, budget, and lifestyle.
👉 Explore Types of Cataract Lenses at IHEC:- https://innocentheartseyecentre.com/blog/types-of-cataract-lenses/
Recovery and Aftercare
Cataract eye surgery after care is simple but important.
What to Expect:
- Day 1: Blurry vision, mild irritation
- Day 3–7: Vision improves, resume normal tasks
- Week 4: Vision stabilizes; glasses (if needed) prescribed
Tips for Recovery:
- Use prescribed eye drops regularly
- Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes
- Wear UV-protected sunglasses outside
- Avoid swimming or heavy lifting
Is Cataract Surgery Safe?
Yes, it is one of the safest and most successful surgeries worldwide. At IHEC, we follow strict infection control and use modern technology to ensure excellent results.
Success rate: Over 98% of patients regain normal or near-normal vision post-surgery.
Rare risks include:
- Infection
- Swelling
- Retinal detachment
- Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO)
Cataract in India: What the Stats Say
- Over 12 million people in India are blind due to cataracts (NCBI)
- Most are over the age of 50
- India performs 60–70 lakh cataract surgeries annually
- Awareness and access still remain challenges in rural areas
Early Cataract treatment can prevent lifelong blindness and improve quality of life dramatically.
Book Your Cataract Consultation at IHEC
Looking for cataract eye surgery near me? At Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, Jalandhar, we offer:
✅ Blade-free phaco and laser eye surgery
✅ Premium and custom IOLs
✅ Expert surgeons with experience
✅ Cashless insurance + affordable EMI plans
✅ Transparent cataract eye surgery cost discussion
Also Read
- Types of Cataract Lenses: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Lens for Your Eyes
- What is Cataract and how is it treated?
- What is the Difference Between Cataract and Glaucoma?
- SMILE Pro Eye Surgery for Astigmatism
- Myths and Misconceptions About SMILE Pro Eye Surgery
- Understanding Smile Pro Eye Surgery
- 10 Natural Ways to Improve Your Vision – Bye Bye Glasses!
- Comparing Smile Pro Eye Surgery to Other LASIK Procedures
FAQs about Cataract Eye Surgery in India
1. What is the most common cataract eye surgery procedure?
The most common cataract eye surgery procedure is Phacoemulsification (Phaco Surgery). It involves a small, stitch-less incision through which the cloudy lens is emulsified using ultrasound and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). It is safe, quick, and offers a fast recovery.
2. How do I find the best cataract eye surgery near me?
Search for reputed eye hospitals with experienced surgeons, advanced technology (like laser cataract surgery), and good patient reviews. If you’re in Punjab, you can book a consultation at Innocent Hearts Eye Centre, Jalandhar—a trusted destination for cataract eye surgery near you.
3. Are there any complications after cataract surgery?
Cataract eye surgery is extremely safe, but like any procedure, it carries minimal risks such as infection, inflammation, or Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO). Most complications are treatable and occur rarely under expert care.
4. What is the recovery time after cataract eye surgery?
Most patients experience improved vision within 2–3 days, but full recovery may take up to 4 weeks. Following the recommended cataract surgery after care plan—including using eye drops and avoiding strain—ensures optimal healing.
5. What is the cost of cataract eye surgery in India?
The cataract eye surgery cost varies based on the type of procedure (standard or laser), the IOL used, and the hospital. At IHEC, we offer affordable packages, insurance coverage, and flexible EMI plans.
6. Can cataracts be corrected with glasses or contact lenses?
In early stages, cataract glasses or contact lenses may help improve vision. However, they don’t stop the progression of cataracts. Surgery is the only permanent solution when cataracts begin to interfere with daily life.
7. What are the different types of cataract lenses (IOLs)?
There are several IOL types including Monofocal, Multifocal, Toric, and EDOF lenses. Each caters to different vision needs and budgets. Your surgeon will recommend the best option during your consultation.
8. Can I get laser eye surgery for cataracts?
Yes, Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS) is an advanced technique that uses a femtosecond laser for precision. It’s especially ideal for patients who also want to address astigmatism or opt for premium lenses.
9. Is LASIK eye surgery the same as cataract surgery?
No, LASIK and cataract surgery are different procedures. LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors, while cataract surgery replaces the clouded natural lens. However, some patients may opt for LASIK after cataract surgery to fine-tune their vision.
10. What should I avoid after cataract eye surgery?
Avoid touching your eyes, swimming, dusty environments, and heavy lifting for at least a week. Wear protective sunglasses and follow all eye surgery after cataract surgery guidelines shared by your doctor.