Blindness is probably one of the most frightening medical conditions. The truth is, most of its causes can be prevented with a doctor’s help. Some eye problems may be treated with medicines but others require surgery. If you are a candidate for a procedure, do not worry as we will help you better understand and what to expect from it.
Everyone wants to have a clear vision. However, some diseases may lead to poor eyesight due to diseases, injuries or natural degeneration of the eyes. According to Novartis, at least 1.1 million Filipinos suffer from vision impairment of various causes. This only shows that it is crucial for you to be proactive in taking care of your eyes.
Causes of Eye Problems
There are different causes of eye diseases and problems. Some of them are related to injuries and physical trauma. Others may involve the use of medication or inappropriate treatment. For the most part, problems with vision may be due to aging, lifestyle or complications from existing diseases.
In this regard, some conditions may require surgical procedures either to relieve symptoms or to help the eyes recover.
How Much is an Eye Surgery?
It is understandable that eye procedures are quite expensive since they involve fixing a critical organ. Major eye surgeries in the Philippines may start from Php 35,000 to Php 120,000 which depends on the procedure type and equipment to be used. We have created here a list of the most common eye surgeries together with their average prices. Take a look and see if one is prescribed by your doctor.
Note: Indicated prices are based on average ranges that we have gathered. The exact cost will depend on where you will have the surgery (hospital, eye clinic).
1. Cataract
Probably one of the most common problems of Filipinos, cataract is the clouding of the eye’s lens. The lens that focus light becomes whitish which leads to vision impairment. If left untreated, it may lead to partial or total blindness. Technically, cataract surgery is the replacement of the eye’s natural lens with an artificial one. However, there are different types of treatment available to reduce the cloudy appearance of the lens so you better check the latest price of cataract surgery.
Price: Php 34,000 to Php 91,000 (per eye, depending on hospital rates)
Procedure Names: Cataract surgery, Katarata surgery
Types: Lasik (to reshape the cornea), Phacoemulsification (phaco), Small incision cataract surgery
2. Lacrimal
This type of procedure involves creating a small incision in the side of the nose to allow tears to flow. Having a blocked tear duct is the primary reason why it is performed. Some of the most common symptoms that patient have are excessive watering of the eyes or the build up of crust in the lower eyelid.
Price: Php 30,000 to Php 65,000
Procedure Names: Tear duct surgery, Lacrimal surgery
3. Pterygium
Caused by a fleshy growth in the corner of the eyes, the surgery removes it to restore vision. Some of the most common causes of include frequent exposure to UV rays or dust (ClevelandClinic). Depending on the severity, the procedure will only take about 30 to 45 minutes.
Price: Php 7,000 to Php 25,000
Procedure Names: Pterygium Excision, Pterygium surgery
4. Retinal Detachment Surgery
A detached retina is a medical emergency. The patient should seek medical attention within 24 hours of symptoms (light flashes, severe floaters) to reduce the risk of losing one’s vision. The surgery has a high rate of success at 90% (Better Health).
Price: Php 155,000 to Php 180,000
Procedure Names: Pneumatic retinopexy, retinal re-attachment surgery
5. Strabismus
Millions worldwide are affected by strabismus or “duling“. The surgery involves sewing the muscles to keep the eye balls aligned in a single direction. While it may sound scary, doctors are skillful in treating this condition through surgery.
Price: Php 80,000 to Php 200,000
Procedure Names: Crossed-eyes surgery, Duling surgery, Banlag
6. Orbital Decompression
The procedure involves an operation on the eye socket to reduce bulging. In most cases, the bones or the fats in the orbit wall will be removed to relieve pressure.
Price: Php 18,000
Procedure Names: Orbital wall decompression
Where Should I Have the Surgery?
If you already have an ophthalmologist, it would be much easier to find a hospital. Ask your doctor and for sure he or she can point you to a clinic with the needed equipment. Hospitals usually have their eye institutes where patient may avail surgical services.
When to Get Help
Your eyes are very important and losing your vision can be a life-changing event. That is why being vigilant is the key to preventing eye problems from worsening. If you are experiencing symptoms such as sudden flashes of light, darkening of your field of vision or having pain in the eye balls, seek help immediately.
On the other hand, some types of eye procedures can wait depending on the problems. This is where your doctor can help and evaluate your condition.
Some younger individuals may need to undergo surgery to correct their vision impairment early on. For example, the crossed eye surgery may be done at a young age.
Adults on the other hand may have degenerative vision as they grow older. This could be a natural tendency but they are also at a higher risk of contracting eye diseases and problems. We recommend that you get an ophthalmologist who can attend to your needs for a long time.
Some surgeries and eye procedures may have limited recovery times. However, those that involve major operation may take more than a month for full recovery. Ask your doctor about the recovery time for your particular condition.
References: WebMD, Healthgrades
About the Author: The MedicalPinas team publishes articles to help Filipinos find info on various medical services and their prices.