Guide to SILK Eye Surgery

What is SILK Eye Surgery?

SILK-Smooth Incision Lenticule Keratomileusis, is a type of laser surgery that is used to treat conditions such as astigmatism and nearsightedness. 

The clear front part of the eyes is known as cornea. In some cases, people may have some shape irregularities in the cornea. This leads to the falling of the light in front or back of the retina instead of falling on the retina which will lead to vision problems.

The process is done using a femtosecond laser. A thin disc of tissues known as the lenticule is created below the cornea and then later removed using the laser. 

The removal is done through an incision and taking out the precise piece of tissue will help in changing the overall shape of the cornea by flattening it and helping the light to focus better.

Who Should Opt for a SILK Eye Surgery?

Not everyone can get SILK eye surgery. Only people who meet the below criteria can get the surgery:

• The person is at least 18 years or older.
• The person has a stable vision prescription (no major changes in glasses or contacts recently).
• The person should be with or without cylindrical power also known as astigmatism up to -6.00 D (dioptres). Dioptres (D) measure how strong the glasses or contact lenses need to be to correct the person’s vision.
• The person who is having nearsightedness up to -12.00 D
• The person should not have any serious corneal issues or diseases or a history of corneal surgery.
• The person should not be pregnant, lactating or are on an approved medical method of birth control. 

What are the Factors Affecting the Cost of SILK Surgery?

SILK is an advanced technology and therefore will require state-of-art equipment which will be costlier than other surgeries. Apart from this there are factors which would affect the cost,

• Location: Based on the area where the hospital is situated, the cost varies. Hospitals situated in metropolitan cities charge more in comparison to hospitals in rural areas. 
• Hospital Costs: The facilities and equipments present in the hospital change the cost. Private clinics charge more than public healthcare service. 
• Surgeon Fees: Depending on the surgeon’s expertise and experience, the consultation and procedure fees change.
• Tests Conducted: Before the main surgery, the doctor will ask the person to get blood tests which will add up to the cost.
• Patient's Health: Depending upon the patient’s age and underlying medical conditions, the charges vary.
• Personalised Treatment: Customization of the treatment will add up to the cost.
• Post-surgery Care: Once the procedure is completed, the patient is asked to take antibiotics, medications and visit the hospital for follow-ups. This will add up to the overall expenses.
• Travel and Accommodation: If the person is undergoing surgery in a different city or country, then he/she needs to travel and find a place to stay till the procedure all of which will increase the spending.

What are the Tips Which Help to Reduce the Cost of SILK Eye Surgery?

People can look into the below options to reduce the surgery cost, ii

• Insurance: Some of the health insurances cover the SILK eye surgery. It is better to discuss with the insurer before getting a surgery.
• Medical Loans: Some financial institutions offer loans specifically for medical expenses.
• Savings: Regularly saving in a health savings account or a savings account can help cover surgery costs.
• Hospital Empanelment: If the hospital is empanelled (getting approved by the insurance company to provide healthcare services to the insured patient) with the person’s insurance, it may lower the costs.
• Payment Plans: Some hospitals offer installment payment plans. People can opt for this when it is difficult to pay the entire amount at once.
• Crowdfunding: Online platforms can help raise funds for medical expenses.

Why Choose Surya Eye for the Best SILK Eye Surgery?

Surya Eye Hospital, located in the heart of Mumbai, has been offering the best eye care for more than 40 years. Trusted by more than 5,00,000+ happy patients, the clinic provides 16+ specialized treatments. 

There is an experienced team of surgeons of 12+ experts. The staff is friendly and the clinic is kept spotless with thorough sanitization. Gloves and masks are worn by the staff all the time. Unlike large hospitals, Surya Eye offers personalized attention with minimal waiting time. 

As Mumbai's first ISO 9001:2015 and NABH certified eye hospital, the clinic uses the latest technology to ensure the highest standard of care for your vision.

SILK technology represents the future of robotic eye surgery in Mumbai, offering greater precision and safety.

FAQs

Is SILK eye surgery a bladeless procedure?

Yes. SILK uses a femtosecond laser to create the lenticule within the cornea and does not require a mechanical blade for vision correction.

What factors affect the cost of SILK eye surgery?

The cost of SILK surgery can vary according to the hospital location and facilities, surgeon’s experience, pre-operative tests, individual treatment requirements and post-operative care. Travel and accommodation may add to the overall expense when treatment is undertaken in another city.

Is SILK eye surgery covered by health insurance?

Insurance coverage depends on the individual policy and circumstances of treatment. Patients should contact their insurer before surgery to confirm whether SILK eye surgery is covered and whether treatment at the chosen hospital is eligible for cashless or reimbursement benefits.

Are EMI options available for SILK eye surgery?

Some hospitals like Surya Eye may offer instalment or financing options for eye surgery. Patients should ask about available payment plans, eligibility criteria, interest charges and other applicable terms before proceeding with treatment.

How is SILK different from LASIK?

SILK creates and removes a small lenticule of corneal tissue through an incision. LASIK, in contrast, involves creating a corneal flap before reshaping the underlying corneal tissue with a laser.

How do I know if SILK eye surgery is suitable for me?

Suitability depends on factors such as age, spectacle prescription, prescription stability, corneal health and overall eye condition. A comprehensive eye examination is necessary before an ophthalmologist can recommend SILK.