Imagine struggling with blurry vision despite wearing thick glasses or uncomfortable contact lenses every day. You’ve heard of LASIK, but what if you’re not eligible?
That’s where ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery comes in—a revolutionary procedure that offers crystal-clear vision without reshaping the cornea.
But before you take the next step, you’re probably wondering: What is the ICL eye surgery cost in India?
On average, ICL surgery in India costs between ₹75,000 to ₹1,50,000 per eye, depending on the city, hospital, and surgeon’s expertise.
While this may seem expensive, it’s gaining immense popularity—studies show that over 1 million ICL procedures have been performed worldwide, with India emerging as a top destination for high-quality yet affordable eye surgeries.
I personally explored ICL surgery after years of frustration with contact lenses. The freedom of waking up to clear vision without fumbling for glasses? Absolutely life-changing.
If you’re considering it too, this guide will help you understand the exact pricing, factors affecting the cost, best hospitals, and financing options available.
Let’s dive deeper into whether ICL eye surgery is worth the investment for you. 👇
What is ICL Eye Surgery?
If you’ve been searching for a long-term solution to your vision problems but aren’t eligible for LASIK, ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery might be the perfect alternative.
It’s a safe, effective, and reversible vision correction procedure that gives you the freedom to ditch glasses and contact lenses for good.
But what exactly is ICL, and how does the surgery work? Let’s break it down in a simple way.
How Does ICL Surgery Work?
The procedure is quick and painless, typically taking about 15-20 minutes per eye. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens:
- Numbing Eye Drops – Your surgeon will apply anesthetic drops, so you won’t feel a thing.
- Tiny Incision – A small, self-healing incision is made in your cornea.
- Lens Insertion – The ICL is gently folded and inserted through the incision.
- Lens Positioning – The lens unfolds inside your eye and is carefully adjusted behind the iris.
- Recovery Begins – No stitches needed! The incision heals naturally, and most patients notice clearer vision within a day.
Sounds futuristic, right? That’s because it is!
The best part is that ICL surgery doesn’t cause dry eyes like LASIK often does, making it a great option for people with thin corneas or chronic dry eye syndrome.
Who is Eligible for ICL Surgery?
Not everyone is a perfect candidate for ICL surgery, so let’s see if you fit the bill. You’re likely a good match if:
✔️ You’re between 18-45 years old (since vision should be stable).
✔️ Your prescription is between -3.00D to -20.00D (great for high myopia).
✔️ You have thin corneas (which may disqualify you from LASIK).
✔️ You don’t have severe eye conditions like glaucoma or uncontrolled cataracts.
✔️ You want a reversible procedure in case your vision needs change in the future.
If you tick most of these boxes, ICL surgery could be a life-changing option for you!
But before making a decision, it’s essential to understand the costs and factors that influence pricing—which we’ll cover next. 👇
ICL Eye Surgery Cost in India: A Detailed Breakdown
If you’re considering ICL surgery, one of the first things on your mind is probably the cost.
While it’s an investment in your vision, ICL surgery in India is significantly more affordable compared to other countries without compromising on quality.
In this section, we’ll break down the average costs, key factors that influence pricing, and how India compares with other countries for this procedure.
Average Cost of ICL Surgery in India (City-Wise)
The cost of ICL surgery in India typically ranges from ₹75,000 to ₹1,50,000 per eye, depending on the city, hospital, and surgeon’s experience.
Here’s a city-wise breakdown:
| City | Cost Range (Per Eye) |
| Delhi | ₹90,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
| Mumbai | ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,60,000 |
| Bangalore | ₹85,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
| Chennai | ₹80,000 – ₹1,30,000 |
| Hyderabad | ₹75,000 – ₹1,25,000 |
| Kolkata | ₹80,000 – ₹1,35,000 |
| Pune | ₹85,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
While these are approximate costs, premium hospitals and highly experienced surgeons may charge more, but they also offer better facilities and success rates.
While the ICL Eye Surgery Cost in India is higher than LASIK, it is a better option for those with thin corneas or high prescriptions.
Factors Affecting ICL Surgery Cost in India
The cost of ICL eye surgery isn’t a fixed number—it varies due to several factors. Let’s break down the key elements that influence the price.
1. Type of ICL Lens Used
ICL lenses come in different variants and brands, which impact the cost. The two major types are:
- Standard ICL lenses – These are the most commonly used and cost between ₹75,000 – ₹1,20,000 per eye.
- Toric ICL lenses – Designed for patients with astigmatism, these are more expensive, typically ranging from ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000 per eye.
2. Hospital & Surgeon’s Expertise
Choosing a reputed hospital and an experienced surgeon can increase the cost but also enhances safety and success rates.
A top-tier eye hospital in a metro city will generally charge more than a smaller clinic in a less populated area.
3. Pre-Surgery Tests & Consultations
Before the surgery, you’ll need a series of tests to check eye health, corneal thickness, and suitability for ICL.
These tests cost between ₹3,000 – ₹7,000 and are usually not included in the surgery cost.
4. Post-Surgery Care & Medications
After the procedure, follow-up visits and medications (such as antibiotic eye drops) are required.
This can add ₹5,000 – ₹10,000 to your overall expense, depending on the clinic. Some hospitals include post-op care in their package, so it’s always good to ask.
Final Thoughts on Cost
While ICL surgery is a significant financial decision, the long-term benefits of perfect vision without glasses or contacts often outweigh the cost.
Advanced technology and premium lenses can increase the ICL Eye Surgery Cost in India, but they offer better results.
Plus, with options like EMI plans, insurance coverage (in select cases), and medical tourism packages, getting ICL surgery in India is now more accessible than ever.
Up next, let’s explore the best hospitals and clinics for ICL surgery in India! 👇
Best Hospitals & Clinics for ICL Surgery in India
Patients should compare clinics to find the best ICL Eye Surgery Cost in India without compromising on quality.
Choosing the right hospital for ICL surgery is just as important as the procedure itself.
The good news? India is home to some of the best eye hospitals in the world, offering advanced technology, skilled surgeons, and affordable pricing.
In this section, we’ll explore the top hospitals across major cities and what to consider when selecting the best clinic for your needs.
Top Hospitals in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Hyderabad
If you’re looking for the best ICL surgery hospitals in India, here are some highly-rated options across major metro cities:
1. Best ICL Surgery Hospitals in Delhi
- AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) – Premier government hospital with experienced ophthalmologists.
- Centre for Sight – One of India’s top eye care chains, known for cutting-edge treatments.
- Shroff Eye Centre – Over 100 years of legacy in advanced eye care.
- Bharti Eye Foundation – Specialized in refractive surgeries like ICL & LASIK.
2. Best ICL Surgery Hospitals in Mumbai
- Bombay City Eye Institute & Research Centre – State-of-the-art technology for ICL surgery.
- Laxmi Eye Institute – Trusted for high-precision vision correction surgeries.
- JJ Hospital & Grant Medical College – A government hospital offering affordable treatments.
- Eye Solutions Clinic – Specializes in premium ICL lens implantation.
3. Best ICL Surgery Hospitals in Bangalore
- Narayana Nethralaya – One of India’s leading eye hospitals with top ICL surgeons.
- Sankara Eye Hospital – Affordable and high-quality eye care provider.
- Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital – A reputed name in ophthalmology with nationwide branches.
- MantraCare Eye Clinic – Offers personalized treatment plans for ICL patients.
4. Best ICL Surgery Hospitals in Chennai
- Aravind Eye Hospital – Known for world-class treatment at affordable prices.
- Sankara Nethralaya – One of India’s most reputed eye hospitals.
- Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital – A trusted name in eye care across India.
- Vasan Eye Care – Well-known for refractive surgeries, including ICL.
5. Best ICL Surgery Hospitals in Hyderabad
- LV Prasad Eye Institute – Internationally acclaimed eye care institution.
- Maxivision Eye Hospital – Offers cutting-edge technology for ICL implantation.
- Win Vision Eye Hospital – Specializes in advanced vision correction surgeries.
- Medivision Eye & Laser Centre – Affordable and trusted for ICL & LASIK.
By choosing the right hospital and an experienced surgeon, you can ensure a smooth ICL surgery experience with excellent visual outcomes.
Up next, let’s talk about insurance and financing options for ICL surgery in India! 👇
Is ICL Surgery Covered by Insurance in India?
One of the biggest concerns when considering ICL surgery is whether health insurance will cover the cost.
Since the procedure is elective and categorized as a vision correction surgery, many insurance providers in India do not fully cover it.
However, there are exceptions, and several financing options are available to make the surgery more affordable.
Does Health Insurance Cover ICL Surgery?
🔹 Typically Not Covered: Most health insurance companies in India consider ICL surgery as a cosmetic or elective procedure, similar to LASIK. Since it’s not considered a medical necessity, it is usually excluded from standard health insurance policies.
🔹 Possible Coverage Under Specific Conditions: Some policies may cover ICL surgery if it is deemed medically necessary. This could apply in cases where:
- The patient has a high prescription (-10D or more) and is ineligible for LASIK.
- The surgery is required due to eye trauma, injury, or medical complications.
- A corporate or premium insurance plan includes vision correction benefits.
🔹 Employer & Group Health Insurance: Some corporate health insurance policies offer partial coverage for vision correction procedures, including ICL. If you have employer-sponsored insurance, it’s worth checking with HR.
🔹 Reimbursement Option: Some hospitals provide detailed medical documentation to help patients claim partial reimbursement, even if ICL is not explicitly covered in their plan.
📌 Pro Tip: Always check with your insurance provider before the procedure and ask for a written confirmation of what is covered under your policy.
While ICL surgery is usually not covered under standard health insurance, there are still ways to manage the cost through EMIs, medical loans, and corporate insurance plans.
Many hospitals provide EMI options to make the ICL Eye Surgery Cost in India more affordable for patients.
If affordability is a concern, be sure to explore all financing options before making a decision.
Coming up next: The benefits and risks of ICL surgery—let’s weigh the pros and cons! 👇
Benefits & Risks of ICL Eye Surgery
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to LASIK for people with high myopia, thin corneas, or dry eyes.
But like any medical procedure, it comes with both advantages and risks. Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision.
Advantages of ICL Over LASIK & Other Procedures
ICL surgery offers several unique benefits that set it apart from LASIK, PRK, and SMILE. Here’s why many people prefer ICL:
✅ Superior Vision Quality: ICL lenses provide sharp, high-definition vision with minimal glare and halos, especially in low-light conditions.
✅ No Corneal Reshaping Required: Unlike LASIK, ICL surgery does not remove corneal tissue, making it ideal for people with thin corneas or irregular corneal shape.
✅ Reversible & Adjustable: If needed, the ICL lens can be removed or replaced, unlike LASIK, which permanently alters the cornea.
✅ Less Risk of Dry Eyes: Since ICL does not affect the corneal nerves, the chances of post-surgery dry eyes are significantly lower compared to LASIK.
✅ UV Protection: The Collamer material of ICL lenses has built-in UV protection, which helps protect the eyes from harmful sun rays.
✅ Fast Recovery: Most patients experience clear vision within 24–48 hours after the procedure, with minimal discomfort.
✅ Works for High Prescriptions: ICL can correct up to -20.00D of myopia, making it one of the best options for patients with severe nearsightedness.
Possible Side Effects & Risks
While ICL surgery is generally safe and effective, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and complications:
⚠️ Increased Eye Pressure (Glaucoma): In some cases, the ICL lens may cause a slight increase in intraocular pressure (IOP), leading to glaucoma if not monitored properly. Regular check-ups help manage this risk.
⚠️ Cataract Formation: Although rare, some patients may develop early cataracts due to the placement of the lens. Choosing an experienced surgeon minimizes this risk.
⚠️ Halos & Glare: Some patients may experience mild halos or glare at night, though this is usually temporary and improves over time.
⚠️ Infection & Inflammation: As with any eye surgery, there’s a small risk of infection. However, proper post-op care and prescribed antibiotic eye drops reduce this risk significantly.
⚠️ Lens Malposition: In rare cases, the ICL lens might shift out of place, requiring a minor adjustment or reoperation.
ICL eye surgery is a highly effective and safe vision correction procedure, offering better vision quality, reversibility, and minimal dry eye risks compared to LASIK.
However, it’s important to discuss potential risks with your surgeon and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before proceeding.
Next, let’s talk about how to prepare for ICL surgery to ensure a smooth experience! 👇
What to Expect Before, During, and After ICL Surgery?
ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) surgery is a quick and painless procedure, but knowing what to expect at each stage can help you feel more prepared and confident.
Let’s walk through the entire process—from pre-surgery preparations to post-surgery recovery—so you know exactly what’s ahead.
Pre-Surgery Preparations & Tests
Before your ICL surgery, your eye specialist will conduct a series of tests to ensure you’re a suitable candidate. Here’s what to expect:
🔹 Comprehensive Eye Examination: Your doctor will measure your corneal thickness, pupil size, and intraocular pressure (IOP) to determine if ICL is right for you.
🔹 Refractive Error Assessment: Your current prescription will be checked to select the correct ICL lens power for your eyes.
🔹 Endothelial Cell Count Test: This test evaluates the health of the corneal endothelium, which is crucial for a successful ICL implantation.
🔹 Medical History Review: Your surgeon will ask about past eye conditions, medications, or allergies to avoid any complications.
🔹 Contact Lens Discontinuation: If you wear contact lenses, you may be advised to stop using them 1–2 weeks before surgery to allow your cornea to return to its natural shape.
🔹 Pre-Surgery Instructions: Your doctor might prescribe antibiotic or anti-inflammatory eye drops to use before surgery. You’ll also be asked to arrange transportation as you won’t be able to drive after the procedure.
Step-by-Step ICL Surgery Procedure
The actual ICL surgery takes only 20-30 minutes per eye and is performed under local anesthesia (numbing eye drops), so you won’t feel pain. Here’s how it happens:
🔹 Step 1: Eye Numbing & Dilation – Your surgeon will apply numbing drops and dilating drops to ensure a painless procedure.
🔹 Step 2: Micro-Incision – A tiny incision (about 3mm) is made at the edge of the cornea to insert the ICL lens.
🔹 Step 3: Lens Insertion – The folded ICL lens is placed inside the eye and positioned behind the iris (the colored part of the eye).
🔹 Step 4: Lens Adjustment – The lens naturally unfolds, and the surgeon makes final adjustments for perfect alignment.
🔹 Step 5: Healing Begins – Since the incision is self-sealing, no stitches are needed. The procedure is over in minutes!
📌 Post-Surgery Check-Up: You’ll rest for a short time, and the doctor will check your vision and eye pressure before letting you go home.
Post-Surgery Recovery & Care Tips
Recovery from ICL surgery is fast, and most people notice clearer vision within 24 hours. However, proper aftercare is crucial to ensure the best results.
🔹 Day 1-3:
✅ Avoid rubbing or touching your eyes.
✅ Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops as instructed.
✅ Wear dark sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright light.
✅ Rest your eyes and avoid screen time for at least a day.
🔹 Week 1-2:
✅ Avoid dusty or smoky environments to prevent irritation.
✅ Do not engage in strenuous activities like swimming, gym workouts, or heavy lifting.
✅ Follow up with your doctor as scheduled.
🔹 Long-Term Care:
✅ Your vision will stabilize within 1-2 months.
✅ Regular eye check-ups are essential to monitor eye pressure and lens position.
✅ Protect your eyes from UV exposure by wearing UV-protected sunglasses outdoors.
Most people resume normal activities within a few days after ICL surgery, but full recovery takes about 1-2 months.
By following your doctor’s advice and taking good care of your eyes, you can enjoy clear, glasses-free vision for years to come!
Next up: FAQs about ICL surgery in India—answers to your top questions! 👇
FAQs About ICL Eye Surgery Cost in India
What is the cheapest cost for ICL surgery in India?
The lowest cost for ICL surgery in India starts at around ₹50,000 per eye, but the average price ranges between ₹65,000 to ₹1,50,000 per eye.
The cost depends on factors like the city, hospital reputation, surgeon’s experience, and type of ICL lens used.
Some hospitals offer package deals or EMI options to make the surgery more affordable.
How long does an ICL lens last?
ICL lenses are designed to be permanent and can last a lifetime. Unlike contact lenses, they do not need regular replacements.
However, in rare cases, they may need to be removed or replaced due to vision changes, cataract development, or medical reasons.
If your prescription is stable, ICL surgery provides long-term vision correction.
Is ICL surgery painful?
No, ICL surgery is painless because numbing eye drops are used during the procedure. You may feel slight pressure or coolness but no pain.
After surgery, mild discomfort like light sensitivity or irritation may occur for 1–2 days, but it can be managed with prescribed eye drops.
Most patients recover quickly and comfortably.
Conclusion: Is ICL Surgery Worth the Cost in India?
Knowing the ICL Eye Surgery Cost in India helps in financial planning for a long-term vision correction solution.
ICL eye surgery is a premium vision correction procedure that offers:
✅ Crystal-clear vision without removing corneal tissue
✅ A lifetime solution for high myopia & astigmatism
✅ A reversible, flexible alternative to LASIK & SMILE
✅ Minimal risk of dry eyes & corneal complications
While the ICL surgery cost in India may seem high at first, its long-term benefits outweigh the price—especially for people who:
- Have high myopia (-8D to -20D)
- Are not eligible for LASIK due to thin corneas
- Want a reversible, high-quality vision correction solution
If you’re looking for a safe, effective, and long-term alternative to glasses and contact lenses, ICL surgery is 100% worth the investment.
💡 Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with a trusted eye hospital today and get closer to a glasses-free life! 👓🚀
