Cataract surgery in Iran
The cost of cataract surgery in Iran varies depending on the location, the hospital or clinic, and the type of lens used, but it is generally much more affordable than in many developed countries. The procedure is covered by Iran’s national health insurance program, which makes it accessible to a wide range of patients.
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A cataract is characterized by the presence of a cloudy area on the natural lens of the eye. This condition, which is most prevalent among individuals aged 40 and above, is a leading cause of vision impairment. Cataracts can significantly disrupt daily activities like reading, driving, and exercising. Therefore, timely treatment is essential to address this condition effectively.
What Is Cataract?
If you are experiencing blurred vision and are over 40 years old, you may have cataracts. Cataracts occur when the normally clear and transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy and opaque due to the buildup of proteins. This condition can be caused by various factors, including congenital reasons, trauma, certain medications, exposure to toxins or radiation, diabetes, and most commonly, aging.
The good news is that not everyone with cataracts requires surgery. In the early stages, cataracts may only cause minor vision problems such as nearsightedness. However, if your vision cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, cataract surgery may be necessary. During this procedure, the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens.
The 4 Different Types of Cataracts
There are four main types of cataracts: nuclear, cortical, congenital, and posterior subcapsular.
- Nuclear cataract: This is the most common type that affects the central part of the lens. It typically starts with myopia (nearsightedness) and progresses to blurred and cloudy vision over time.
- Cortical cataract: This type begins at the edges of the lens and gradually extends towards the center. Cortical cataracts are commonly associated with conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
- Congenital cataract: Some individuals are born with cataracts, known as congenital cataracts. Intrauterine infections, pregnancy trauma, galactosemia, and other factors can contribute to this type of cataract.
- Posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC): PSC is a more complex type of cataract that develops at the back of the lens. It leads to a gradual decrease in vision. Fortunately, PSC can be treated, and patients can typically resume their normal activities within three months after cataract surgery.
Why Iran for Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a precise procedure that necessitates advanced surgical devices and the expertise of a skilled ophthalmic surgeon. In Iran, cataract surgery is performed in modern hospitals equipped with state-of-the-art surgical instruments. The success rate of lens replacement surgery in Iran is an impressive 98%, making the country an attractive destination for patients seeking this operation. Additionally, the cost of cataract surgery in Iran is approximately one-third of the cost in the United States and Europe.
Cataract Surgery Cost in Iran
The cost of cataract surgery in Iran is influenced by several factors, including the surgeon’s expertise, the surgical technique employed, the facilities available at the hospital or eye clinic, the complexity of the procedure, and the specific condition of the affected eye. Generally, cataract surgery in Iran can begin at around $500 per eye, which is significantly lower compared to the starting cost of $1,500 per eye in the United States.
Types of Cataract Surgery in Iran
Cataract surgery involves the removal of the damaged portion of the lens and the implantation of an intraocular lens. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately 20 minutes.
In Iran, three types of cataract surgery are commonly practiced: phacoemulsification (phaco), extracapsular surgery, and intracapsular surgery.
Phacoemulsification
This is the most prevalent technique, where a small incision is made at the edge of the cornea. The cloudy lens is fragmented and removed using ultrasound waves. An artificial lens is then implanted, and the incision is sutured.
Extracapsular cataract surgery
In this method, a larger incision is made at the cornea’s edge to remove the intact damaged lens. Due to its complexity, anesthesia is administered via injections around the eye.
Intracapsular cataract surgery
This approach involves making a larger incision on the cornea, and the entire lens and its surrounding capsule are removed simultaneously. This type of cataract surgery is less commonly performed nowadays due to its higher risk of complications.
What to Expect after Cataract Surgery?
After cataract surgery, it is common to experience certain symptoms such as itchiness, stickiness, pain, and sensitivity to light in your eyes. Increased tearing and a feeling of nausea due to dizziness may also occur. Initially, your vision may be blurry, but it gradually improves as you use the prescribed eye drops. To protect your eyes from pollutants and potential injury, you may be advised to wear eye shields, especially while sleeping, for about a week. It is important to note that the results of cataract surgery are not immediate, and it may take 5 to 10 days for your vision to become as clear as it was before the surgery.
Who Can Do Lens Replacement Surgery?
Cataracts are not limited to the elderly population and can also affect young individuals. Factors such as trauma, certain medications, and genetic conditions can contribute to the development of cataracts at a younger age. Therefore, individuals experiencing symptoms such as blurry vision, difficulty reading, problems with night driving, and challenges viewing screens can consider lens replacement surgery, regardless of their age. The goal of the surgery is to address the cataract and improve vision, allowing individuals to lead a better quality of life.
Best Cataract Surgeons in Iran
Selecting a skilled cataract surgeon is indeed crucial for achieving favorable surgical outcomes and minimizing postoperative complications. Iran is home to highly trained eye surgeons who have graduated from renowned medical universities in Iran and abroad. Iranian cataract surgeons prioritize the overall well-being of their patients, taking into account their physical and mental health conditions. They carefully assess each patient and determine the most suitable anesthesia and surgical methods. You can have confidence in the expertise and knowledge of cataract surgeons in Iran, ensuring a positive outcome and benefiting from the results of the surgery.
How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery?
Before proceeding with cataract surgery, it is important to keep in mind the following guidelines:
- Take a shower or bath the day before the surgery to maintain proper hygiene.
- Have a light breakfast on the day of the operation, as instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Arrange for someone to accompany you and provide caregiving support for at least a day or two following the surgery.
- Refrain from wearing makeup or applying perfume on the day of the operation, as these substances can interfere with the surgical procedure.
- Avoid consuming alcohol or beverages containing caffeine for at least three days prior to the surgery, as they can affect anesthesia and recovery.
- If you are taking blood thinners, such as aspirin, inform your surgeon and follow their instructions regarding discontinuation of these medications in the week leading up to the surgery.
- Be sure to inform your surgeon about any current medications you are taking and any underlying health conditions you have, as this information is crucial for planning and conducting the surgery safely.
Before proceeding with cataract surgery, it is important to keep in mind the following guidelines:
- Take a shower or bath the day before the surgery to maintain proper hygiene.
- Have a light breakfast on the day of the operation, as instructed by your healthcare provider.
- Arrange for someone to accompany you and provide caregiving support for at least a day or two following the surgery.
- Refrain from wearing makeup or applying perfume on the day of the operation, as these substances can interfere with the surgical procedure.
- Avoid consuming alcohol or beverages containing caffeine for at least three days prior to the surgery, as they can affect anesthesia and recovery.
- If you are taking blood thinners, such as aspirin, inform your surgeon and follow their instructions regarding discontinuation of these medications in the week leading up to the surgery.
- Be sure to inform your surgeon about any current medications you are taking and any underlying health conditions you have, as this information is crucial for planning and conducting the surgery safely.
Lens Replacement Surgery Postoperative Care
After undergoing lens replacement surgery, it is important to follow these guidelines during the recovery period:
- Avoid washing your face, particularly the area around the operated eye, for the first three days to prevent water or soap from entering the eye.
- Refrain from bending over or engaging in activities that exert pressure on the eye, as it can strain the healing process.
- Do not drive for at least a week following the surgery, as your vision may still be blurry or your eye may be sensitive to light.
- Avoid lifting, pushing, or pulling heavy objects to prevent strain or injury to the eye.
- Use a plastic shield to cover your eye while sleeping or when you are outside to protect it from dust, dirt, and accidental contact.
- Refrain from rubbing or touching your eye for at least a week after the surgery, as it can disrupt the healing process and increase the risk of infection.
- If you experience redness or severe pain in your eye after the surgery, contact your surgeon immediately for evaluation and guidance.
- Take precautions to prevent dust and dirt from entering the eye by avoiding dusty or dirty environments and wearing protective eyewear when necessary.
- Only use eye drops as prescribed by your doctor and follow their instructions regarding the frequency and duration of their use.
Remember to attend your follow-up appointment with your surgeon as scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Possible Complications of Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is generally safe and complications are rare. However, if you experience any of the following issues after the procedure, it is important to contact your ophthalmologist:
- Severe pain: If you have persistent or worsening pain that is not relieved by prescribed medications.
- Swelling around the eyes: Excessive or increasing swelling, redness, or inflammation around the operated eye.
- Abnormal eye discharge: Pus-like or excessive discharge from the eye.
- Distorted vision: Blurred or distorted vision that does not improve over time or affects your daily activities.
- Ocular hypertension: Significant increase in intraocular pressure, which can cause discomfort or affect vision.
- Infection: Signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or fever.
- Dislocation of the lens: Shifting or displacement of the artificial lens implanted during surgery.
- Bleeding: Excessive bleeding or hemorrhage in the eye or surrounding tissues.
- Intense light sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to light that is persistent or severe.
If you experience any of these complications or have any concerns after cataract surgery, it is important to promptly contact your ophthalmologist for further evaluation and appropriate management. They will be able to assess your condition and provide necessary guidance or treatment.
Final word:
Experience affordable and top-quality cataract surgery with IPD Tourism. Our skilled surgeons and state-of-the-art facilities ensure successful outcomes for patients seeking cataract treatment. Benefit from our expertise, advanced technology, and personalized care, all at a fraction of the cost compared to other countries. Choose IPD Tourism for a seamless and exceptional cataract surgery experience in Iran.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataract Surgery in Iran
After cataract surgery, it is recommended to stay in Iran for at least a week for post-operative follow-up appointments.
Cataract surgery is generally not painful, but some patients may experience mild discomfort in their eyes for a few days after the procedure.
You can resume your daily activities approximately one week after cataract surgery, but it may take up to four weeks for full recovery.
That’s correct. Once cataracts are removed and an artificial lens is implanted during cataract surgery, they cannot grow back on the artificial lens. The artificial lens is designed to be permanent and does not develop cataracts.
Yes, you are correct. While it is possible to perform cataract surgery on both eyes during a single session, many surgeons prefer to operate on each eye separately, usually with a gap of about two weeks between surgeries. This allows for proper healing and recovery of each eye before moving on to the next one. It also helps to minimize any potential complications or risks associated with simultaneous surgery on both eyes. The specific approach may vary depending on the patient’s individual circumstances and the surgeon’s preference.