Learn about Refractive Surgery 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 Refractive Surgery and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Refractive Surgery

Refractive surgery is a specialized ophthalmological procedure designed to correct common vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. The goal is to reduce or eliminate a patient's dependence on glasses or contact lenses by reshaping the cornea, the eye's clear front surface, to improve how light is focused onto the retina. The most well-known technique is LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis), which uses a precise laser to create a thin corneal flap and then reshape the underlying tissue. Other advanced methods include PRK, SMILE, and implantable lenses. Performed by a qualified ophthalmologist, this outpatient procedure is known for its high success rate, rapid visual recovery, and life-changing results for suitable candidates.

Key Highlights

    Significantly reduces or eliminates dependence on glasses and contact lenses.Rapid visual recovery, often with noticeable improvement within 24 hours.High patient satisfaction and success rates for suitable candidates.Quick, outpatient procedure typically completed in under 30 minutes for both eyes.Offers long-term vision correction with stable results.Can correct a wide range of refractive errors including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Myopia (nearsightedness) where distant objects appear blurry.
  • Hyperopia (farsightedness) where near objects are difficult to see clearly.
  • Astigmatism, causing blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
  • Presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on near objects) in specific procedures.
  • Stable vision prescription for at least one year prior to surgery.
  • Patient desire to be less dependent on corrective eyewear for lifestyle, career, or recreational activities.
  • Good overall eye health with no active diseases like keratoconus, severe dry eye, or cataracts.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive eye examination to determine candidacy, including corneal thickness mapping and pupil measurement.
  • Discontinuation of contact lenses for a period specified by the surgeon (typically 2-4 weeks for soft lenses, longer for hard lenses).
  • Detailed discussion with the ophthalmologist about expectations, potential risks, and the specific surgical technique.
  • Avoid using eye makeup, creams, or perfumes on the day of surgery.
  • Arrange for transportation to and from the surgical facility, as you will not be able to drive immediately after.
  • Informed consent process after all questions have been answered.

Risks & possible complications

  • Dry eyes, which is common and usually temporary but can sometimes be persistent.
  • Visual disturbances such as glare, halos, or starbursts around lights, especially at night.
  • Undercorrection or overcorrection, potentially requiring an enhancement procedure.
  • Infection or inflammation, though rare with proper sterile technique and post-op care.
  • Corneal flap complications (specific to LASIK), such as wrinkles or displacement.
  • Rare but serious risks include significant vision loss or ectasia (corneal thinning and bulging).

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Immediate rest is advised; you may experience a gritty sensation, tearing, and light sensitivity for a few hours.
  • Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops exactly as directed to prevent infection and control inflammation.
  • Wear protective eye shields, especially while sleeping, for the first few nights to avoid accidental rubbing.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, using hot tubs, and strenuous activities for at least 1-2 weeks.
  • Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments (typically at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month post-op) for monitoring.
  • Vision may fluctuate during the first few weeks as it stabilizes; use artificial tears as recommended for dryness.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (Outpatient procedure)
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1-2 weeks for primary recovery, 3-6 months for full visual stabilization

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Procedure cost in other countries

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

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 440 – USD 1,321 0 days (Outpatient procedure) ~ 1-2 weeks for primary recovery, 3-6 months for full visual stabilization Know More
Turkey USD 3,278 – USD 9,835 0 days (Outpatient procedure) ~ 1-2 weeks for primary recovery, 3-6 months for full visual stabilization Know More

Top hospitals for Refractive Surgery in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated ophthalmology teams and experience managing patients undergoing refractive surgery.

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89+ Rating

Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa

  • Iconvijayawada, India
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2882+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Whitefield

  • IconBangalore, India
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135+ Rating

Manipal Hospital Goa

  • IconPanaji, India
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PATIENT REVIEW

Anika Brown, a 28-year-old graphic designer,...

Anika Brown, a 28-year-old graphic designer, had worn glasses since she was 10 and contact lenses since 16. Her high myopia (-6.00 in both eyes) meant she was functionally blind without correction. Her active lifestyle of hiking and swimming was constantly hampered by her dependence on lenses, which also caused chronic dry eye and irritation. Her ophthalmologist, after a comprehensive evaluation confirming her corneas were thick enough, recommended LASIK as a safe and effective option. Anika chose bladeless LASIK. The procedure itself was quick; she felt pressure but no pain. Recovery involved 24 hours of mild burning and light sensitivity, followed by remarkably clear vision the next morning. Emotionally, she moved from years of frustration and a feeling of being 'tethered' to her lenses to profound liberation and joy. Waking up and seeing the alarm clock clearly for the first time in decades was an emotional moment that reshaped her daily confidence.

Ophthalmologists for Refractive Surgery

Explore experienced ophthalmologists who regularly perform refractive surgery and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Raviraj Shravan Gaydhankar
  • 16 Years Experience
  • Ophthalmologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 550
Available Tomorrow
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Kharadi, Pune

OPD-desk synced • Updated