Vitreoretinal Cost in India

The cost of vitreoretinal surgery in India typically ranges from $1,500 to $7,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Vitreoretinal surgery treats problems of the retina and the gel inside the eye (vitreous). The main operation is a vitrectomy. The cost usually depends on:

• Condition treated: such as retinal detachment, macular hole or diabetic eye disease.
• Tamponade used: gas or silicone oil to support the retina.
• Further procedures: oil removal or cataract surgery may be needed later.
• Anaesthetic: local or general anaesthetic.

Vitreoretinal surgery covers several operations. Ask for a quote based on the exact procedure planned.

The Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust lists conditions treated with vitrectomy:

• Retinal detachment: the retina peels away from the back of the eye.
• Diabetic eye disease: including bleeding into the vitreous.
• Macular hole: a small hole in the centre of the retina.
• Epiretinal membrane: scar tissue on the surface of the retina.

The Royal Free leaflet explains that the operation is mostly done under local anaesthetic. The surgeon removes the vitreous gel with fine instruments and repairs the retina.

A gas bubble or silicone oil may be placed in the eye to support the retina:

• Gas: short-acting gas lasts up to about 4 weeks and long-acting gas up to about 10 weeks.
• Silicone oil: needs a second operation to remove it.
• Posture: you may need to keep your head in a set position, sometimes face down, for up to 7 days.

The Royal Free leaflet advises not to fly while there is gas in the eye, as it can expand and raise eye pressure. The eye usually heals over 2 to 6 weeks.

Possible risks include cataract, further retinal detachment, raised eye pressure and, rarely, infection or loss of vision.