Phototherapy Treatment in India – Best Hospitals & Doctors

Learn about Phototherapy Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Phototherapy and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

Partner Hospitals

6 partner in India for this surgery

Specialist Doctors

10 Surgeons linked to this surgery

Treatment Cost

USD 16 – USD 54

About Phototherapy

Phototherapy is a safe, non-invasive, and highly effective medical treatment primarily used in pediatrics to treat neonatal jaundice (hyperbilirubinemia). This procedure involves exposing a newborn's skin to specific wavelengths of blue-green light, which helps convert the excess bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells, into a water-soluble form that the baby's body can easily excrete through urine and stool. Performed under careful medical supervision in a hospital's neonatal unit, the infant is placed undressed (with protective eye coverings) under special fluorescent or LED lights. It is a cornerstone treatment for preventing the serious neurological complications associated with severe jaundice, such as kernicterus. The procedure is painless, well-tolerated by infants, and is adjusted in duration and intensity based on the baby's bilirubin levels, weight, and overall health.

Key Highlights

Non-invasive and painless treatment with no needles or surgery required.Highly effective in rapidly lowering dangerous bilirubin levels in newborns.Standard, evidence-based care for preventing serious complications like kernicterus (brain damage).Can be administered continuously or intermittently, allowing for feeding and parental bonding breaks.Modern LED phototherapy units are energy-efficient, generate less heat, and are very safe.

Who is this surgery for?

Treatment of significant neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (jaundice) to prevent bilirubin from reaching neurotoxic levels.
Prophylactic use in premature infants or those with known risk factors for severe jaundice (e.g., blood group incompatibility).
When total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels cross the phototherapy threshold as defined by standardized nomograms based on the infant's age in hours and risk factors.
As an adjunct treatment for certain rare metabolic or liver conditions that cause elevated bilirubin.

How to prepare

The baby's bilirubin level is precisely measured via a blood test or transcutaneous bilirubinometer.
The infant is undressed to maximize skin exposure, leaving only a diaper.
Soft, opaque eye patches are securely fitted to protect the baby's delicate retinas from the light.
The baby is placed in a bassinet or incubator under the phototherapy lights, ensuring proper distance from the light source.
Vital signs (temperature, heart rate, respiration) are monitored regularly.
Parents are counseled on the procedure, its necessity, and what to expect during treatment.

Risks & possible complications

Dehydration and increased fluid loss due to more frequent stools; requires careful monitoring of fluid intake.
Mild, temporary skin rash or bronze baby syndrome (a harmless dark discoloration of the skin).
Potential for overheating or temperature instability if not monitored.
Rare risk of eye damage if protective eyewear is not used or becomes displaced.
Possible separation anxiety for parents due to limited handling during continuous treatment.

Recovery & hospital stay

Bilirubin levels are checked regularly (every 6-12 hours) to determine when therapy can be stopped.
Once levels are safely below the threshold, phototherapy is discontinued, and eye patches are removed.
The baby can resume normal clothing, feeding, and bonding activities immediately.
Parents should monitor for signs of returning jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes) after discharge.
Follow-up bilirubin checks may be recommended within 24-48 hours after stopping treatment to ensure levels remain stable.
No special wound care or medication is needed as the procedure is non-invasive.

Typical hospital stay: 2-5 days
Expected recovery time: Immediate (treatment effect is continuous during therapy)

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering phototherapy in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

＋ − Which hospitals are best for phototherapy in India?

Popular choices for phototherapy in India include Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Manipal Hospital Goa , Manipal Hospital Hebbal, Manipal Hospital Doddaballapur, Manipal Hospital Salem, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.

＋ − How do I choose the right doctor for phototherapy?

Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform phototherapy. MediFyr helps you compare pediatrics specialists and book consultations online.

＋ − What factors affect the cost of phototherapy?

The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.

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Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for phototherapy compare across other countries where we have data.

Country	Estimated cost range	Typical stay	Recovery time	View details
India	USD 16 – USD 54	2-5 days	~ Immediate (treatment effect is continuous during therapy)	Know More
Turkey	USD 121 – USD 403	2-5 days	~ Immediate (treatment effect is continuous during therapy)	Know More