Lasik Eye Surgery Health Insurance

​LASIK eye surgery corrects vision problems by reshaping the cornea. This surgery treats various vision conditions, relieving the hassles of wearing prescription glasses or lenses.

This type of surgery, however, is not considered urgent, thus raising the question among insured persons, “Does my health insurance cover LASIK?” This blog answers this and other important aspects of LASIK eye surgery health insurance.

What is LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular eye surgery used to correct vision issues like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism. This procedure reshapes the cornea, allowing light to focus correctly on the retina for clearer vision.

Laser eye surgery is performed using a specialised laser that removes a small amount of corneal tissue, improving the eye's focusing ability. The procedure is typically quick, taking about 30 minutes and recovery is relatively fast. Most patients notice improved vision within 24 to 48 hours.

LASIK is known for providing long-lasting results, significantly reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses. It is a suitable option for many adults with stable vision and is considered safe with minimal discomfort.

Types of LASIK Eye Surgery

There are several types of LASIK surgeries in India tailored to individual eye conditions:

• Traditional LASIK : This is the most common type. A thin flap is created on the cornea, which is then folded back. Then, the surgeon reshapes the cornea with a laser to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism.
• Wavefront-Guided LASIK : This technique maps the eye's surface in detail, correcting vision issues unique to the patient's eye for improved accuracy.
  
• Bladeless LASIK (Femto LASIK) : In bladeless LASIK, instead of using a blade, a laser is used to create the flap in the cornea. This offers more precision and can be a safer option for some patients. It is a more advanced version of traditional LASIK and may reduce the risks involved in creating the flap.
• Wavefront LASIK : Wavefront technology creates a detailed map of the eye’s imperfections, allowing the surgeon to customise the laser treatment for each patient.
• Epi-LASIK : This is similar to traditional LASIK but doesn’t involve creating a deep flap. Instead, the outermost layer of the cornea is gently removed, and the laser reshapes the cornea.

Each type of LASIK eye surgery has unique benefits and caters to different eye conditions. Your eye doctor will recommend the most suitable option based on your condition and corneal structure.

Who Requires LASIK Eye Surgery?

People who require LASIK typically experience:

• Difficulty focusing on objects due to myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness).
• Distorted vision caused by astigmatism.
• Desire to improve their vision without using their glasses or lenses.

It is recommended for those who qualify the following criteria:

• LASIK eye surgery age limit is above 18 years of age. It is even better if the person is above 21 years of age as the vision mostly stops changing.
• Whose prescription for vision has remained unchanged for at least a year.
• Whose refractive index can be corrected with the help of LASIK surgery.
• Whose corneas are thick and healthy enough to sustain the laser surgery.
• Who has optimum eye health.

Who Should Not Get LASIK Surgery?

Not everyone is a candidate for this laser treatment for eyesight. Individuals who should avoid LASIK include:

• Patients With Thin or Irregular Corneas : This laser eye correction surgery requires sufficient corneal thickness for safe reshaping.
• People With Severe Dry Eye Syndrome : LASIK may worsen dryness and discomfort.
• Individuals With Unstable Vision : If your prescription changes frequently, LASIK may not provide long-term benefits.
• Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women : Hormonal changes can affect vision stability, so it's recommended to wait until after pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• People With Autoimmune Disorders or Weakened Immune Systems : Conditions like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can interfere with healing and increase the risk of complications.

Patients with glaucoma, cataracts, or certain other eye diseases are also advised against LASIK unless cleared by their doctor. Individuals with large pupils or those with a history of eye infections should also discuss these risks with their surgeon before deciding.

Since risk factors like thin corneas, chronic dry eyes or an unstable prescription are included with this surgery, fulfilling the above eligibility is crucial.

Diagnosis for LASIK Eye Surgery

This surgery requires a comprehensive before-and-after LASIK eye surgery exam to determine if you are a suitable candidate and if there are no complications. This evaluation helps identify any underlying eye conditions and assesses the structure of your eyes to ensure LASIK will be effective and safe for you.

The exam typically includes measuring your cornea, checking for refractive errors, and assessing the overall health of your eyes.

During the diagnosis process, your eye doctor will:

• Measure Corneal Thickness : This is important to determine if your cornea has enough tissue for the procedure. People with thin corneas may not be ideal candidates for this laser eye correction surgery.
• Check Refractive Errors : Your prescription for your glasses or contact lenses will be evaluated to see if LASIK can correct your nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
• Assess Pupil Size : Large pupils could increase the risk of side effects like halos or glare at night.
• Evaluate Dry Eyes : LASIK can sometimes worsen dry eye symptoms, so your doctor will assess if you have this condition.
• Check for Eye Diseases : Any existing eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts, or corneal abnormalities will be evaluated as these can complicate the surgery.
• Perform a Wavefront Analysis : This creates a detailed map of your eye to identify any irregularities, allowing for a more personalised LASIK procedure.
• Test Tear Production : Ensures that your eyes produce enough tears to keep the eyes moist after the surgery.
• General Health Check : Certain medical conditions like diabetes or autoimmune diseases can affect healing. Thus, your doctors will evaluate these factors as well.

What Happens During Lasik Surgery?

• Preparation : Before the surgery begins, your eye is numbed with special eye drops that will numb your eye. You will likely be sitting in a reclining chair in a LASIK surgery room.
• Eyelid Holder Placement : A small device is gently placed on your eye to keep it open and ensure that you do not blink during the procedure.
• Corneal Flap Creation : The surgeon uses a laser or small blade to create a very thin flap in the outer layer of your cornea (the clear front part of your eye). This flap is then carefully folded back, allowing access to the underlying corneal tissue.
• Laser Reshaping : A highly precise laser, guided by the eye’s measurements, reshapes the cornea to correct your vision problem. This step allows light to focus properly on the retina, resulting in clearer vision without glasses.
• Flap Replacement : Once the cornea has been reshaped, the surgeon carefully folds the corneal flap back into place. The flap sticks to the cornea naturally, without the need for stitches.
• Immediate Vision Check : After the laser eye surgery, your vision may already be improved but still slightly hazy. A brief examination ensures everything is aligned correctly.
• Protective Shield : A clear eye shield is placed over your eye to protect it from accidental rubbing or irritation while the flap heals. This shield is usually worn for the first few nights while sleeping.

What Happens After LASIK Eye Surgery?

• Post-laser eye surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, blurred vision or watery eyes, which is normal and usually subsides within a few days.
• Immediately after the procedure, the doctor will provide protective shields to wear, especially while sleeping, to avoid accidental rubbing.
• Vision may start improving within 24 hours, although full clarity can take a few weeks. Most individuals return to regular activities within a couple of days but may need to avoid strenuous activities and swimming for several weeks.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled, which are essential to monitor healing and to address any concerns about visual adjustments.
• Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to manage dryness and prevent infection. They will also prescribe the optimal way to use them during recovery.
• Vision should stabilise in about one to three months, and the full benefits of the procedure should become noticeable gradually.

Tips for Before and After LASIK Eye Surgery Care

 Before Surgery

• Follow your doctor’s instructions on not wearing contact lenses before the procedure, as contacts can affect corneal shape.
• It is ideal that you stop wearing lenses before getting your baseline evaluation done and wear glasses full-time.
• Avoid using creams, lotions, or makeup near your eyes to reduce the risk of infection.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home post-surgery, as your vision will be blurry right after.

 After LASIK Eye Surgery

• Wear protective shields while sleeping for the first week to avoid touching your eyes.
• Use prescribed eye drops as directed to keep your eyes moisturised and to prevent infection.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes to ensure the corneal flap heals properly.
• Avoid pools, hot tubs and saunas for at least two weeks.
• Refrain from intense activities and sports for a few weeks to prevent eye injury.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect your eyes from UV light, which may be more sensitive post-surgery.
• Keep all follow-up appointments to monitor healing and address any concerns with your vision.

When Should I Go to the ER After LASIK Treatment?

Seek emergency care if you experience severe pain, sudden loss of vision, or notice large amounts of discharge from the eye. These could indicate a rare complication after your laser eye surgery.

Other concerning signs include light sensitivity that worsens over time, intense eye redness or seeing halos around lights that do not improve.

If these symptoms occur, contact your ophthalmologist immediately or go to the ER to prevent any lasting issues with vision.

What Questions Should I Ask My Doctor About LASIK Treatment?

Before considering laser eye surgery, asking the right questions can help you understand if the procedure is right for you. Start by discussing your medical history and vision goals with your eye specialist. Key questions should cover risks, success rates and what results to expect based on your eye health.

Here are the questions to ask:

• Am I a suitable candidate for LASIK?
• What potential risks or side effects should I be aware of?
• How long will recovery take, and what should I expect?
• Will I need glasses or contact lenses after surgery?
• What alternative treatments are available?

​How Much Does LASIK Eye Surgery Cost in India?

The LASIK eye surgery cost in India typically ranges from ₹20,000 to ₹1,50,000 per eye. It varies depending on the clinic, surgeon’s expertise, individual case and type of LASIK performed. Standard LASIK generally costs less, while advanced options like bladeless or wavefront-guided LASIK are more expensive.

City and clinic reputation also play a role, with higher eye laser treatment costs often found in metro cities and more specialised clinics.

This LASIK eye surgery cost generally covers pre-operative evaluations, the procedure itself, and a few post-operative check-ups. However, exact costs vary, so it is advisable to check directly with a clinic for an accurate estimate.

Why Buy a Medical Insurance Plan for LASIK Treatment?

A medical insurance plan is essential for safeguarding your financial well-being in case of unexpected healthcare expenses. With the rising cost of medical treatments, even a single hospital visit can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses.

By purchasing our LASIK eye surgery health insurance plan, you can protect yourself and your family from the financial burden of medical emergencies.

• Coverage for High LASIK Eye Surgery Cost : Whether it is a planned surgery or an emergency, medical insurance covers hospitalisation, LASIK surgery, medications and treatment.
• Access to Quality Healthcare : Having health insurance for laser eye surgery allows you to get treated at the best hospitals without worrying about the cost.
• Preventive Care : Many of our health plans cover preventive health check-ups, ensuring early detection of potential health issues.
• Tax Benefits : Under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act (Old Tax Regime), you can claim tax deductions for the premiums paid on health insurance.

Thus, insurance that covers LASIK eye surgery offers financial security, better healthcare access, and peace of mind.

Reliance Health Insurance Plans for LASIK Eye Surgery

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) provides specific guidelines for insurance for laser eye correction surgery. According to the directive, health insurance providers may cover LASIK surgery if the refractive error reaches or exceeds 7.5 diopters.

*We advise you to review individual policy wordings and check with us to confirm specific eligibility for LASIK coverage.

Steps to Buying Health Insurance for Laser Eye Surgery Online

Visit the Reliance General Insurance Website

Head to the Reliance General Insurance website and select the “Health Insurance” section from the main menu.

Browse Health Insurance Plans

Review available health insurance for laser eye surgery to check if LASIK is covered under any plans, such as Reliance Health Gain or Health Infinity plans. Consider whether you need additional options, like coverage for higher medical expenses or post-surgery care.

Enter Personal Details

Fill in the required fields, including name, age, and contact information. If you are insuring family members, include their details as well.

Customise the Policy

Choose your preferred sum insured amount, such as ₹15 lakh, and check if specific add-ons are available for LASIK-related costs, like  reduction of waiting periods. Using our health insurance premium calculator, you can determine the policy price based on your required coverage.

​Review Instant Quote and Purchase

After customising, view the instant quote. If it meets your needs, proceed to pay the premium online. We will send the policy document to your registered email address to confirm your laser eye surgery health cover.

List of Documents for Buying Reliance Health Insurance Online

• Proof of age with documents such as a birth certificate, passport, driving licence, etc.
• Identity proof, such as a passport, driving licence, an Aadhaar card, etc.
• Relevant medical records about your vision
• Prescription from stating the medical need for LASIK surgery.
• Documents to verify your address, such as ration card, utility bills, Aadhaar card, etc.
• C-KYC documents

Things to Remember Before Buying and Filing a Claim for LASIK Eye Surgery Health Insurance  

When buying insurance that covers LASIK eye surgery from us, it is essential to confirm whether the policy provides coverage specifically for corrective eye surgery, as not all of our health insurance plans include it.

Policies with LASIK coverage have waiting periods, specific eligibility criteria and exclusions, so understanding these conditions is crucial.

 Points to Consider Before Buying Medical Insurance for LASIK Surgery

• Coverage Limitations : Check if your refractive error qualifies for coverage, as some policies cover LASIK only when the refractive error exceeds a specific threshold.
• Waiting Periods : Verify the waiting period applicable to LASIK coverage in your chosen plan.
• Pre-Existing Conditions : LASIK coverage may exclude pre-existing eye conditions, so review exclusions.

 Points to Consider When Filing a Claim for Medical Insurance for LASIK Surgery

• Documentation : Maintain all necessary documents, including prescriptions, medical records, and receipts.
• Network Hospitals : Using network hospitals can simplify the claim process.
• Policy Terms : Understand deductibles, co-payments, and policy limits that may apply.

Conclusion

LASIK eye surgery is a popular choice for vision correction, offering freedom from glasses or contact lenses. However, it is essential to weigh the benefits against potential risks and consider your eye health and lifestyle before making a decision.

Thorough research on LASIK coverage options, including IRDAI’s guidelines and the specific conditions of your health insurance policy, can help streamline the process.

Additionally, to ensure that you maximise your benefits and have a smooth experience, both surgically and financially, invest in our LASIK eye surgery health insurance. We offer coverage through three health insurance plans with a high claim settlement ratio and 24/7 customer assistance. With us, you can enjoy peace of mind and receive high-quality treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is LASIK covered in health insurance plans?

Not all health insurance plans cover LASIK eye surgery costs. Coverage depends on specific eligibility requirements, like meeting a minimum refractive error. Always check policy details and your policy documents to confirm if LASIK is included in your plan. To ensure coverage, opt for either of the following plans: to

• Reliance Health Gain Insurance
• Reliance Health Infinity Insurance
• Reliance Health Super Top-Up
• What are the eligibility requirements for LASIK insurance?

Eligibility often requires a high refractive error or documented vision condition. To receive coverage with your Reliance Health Insurance plan, the refractive error must be above 7.5 dioptres and you fulfil the required waiting period. Your ophthalmologist is also required to recommend the procedure as a medical necessity.

• Does Reliance LASIK eye surgery insurance have a waiting period?

Yes, to claim the benefits of your Reliance Health Insurance, you must have 24 months of continuous coverage with us. This period is counted from the date of your first policy inception with us.

Any claims made during the waiting period are subject to denial. Thus, enquire about the waiting period for your specific condition while buying or claiming your policy.

• Are there alternatives if I’m not eligible for LASIK?

If LASIK is not suitable, alternatives include PRK, LASEK or implantable contact lenses. Each has distinct benefits and requirements, so discussing these options with your doctor can help identify the best corrective surgery for your vision needs. Additionally, it is beneficial to check with our claims team to confirm the coverage for alternative treatments.

Disclaimers:

*T&C Apply. For more details on risk factors, terms conditions, brochure, and exclusions, please read the policy wording and CIS carefully before concluding a sale.

Health Infinity UIN: The details mentioned above are for Reliance Health Infinity Insurance UIN: RELHLIP23120V042223

Health Gain UIN: The details mentioned above are for Reliance Health Gain Policy. Reliance Health Gain UIN: RELHLIP22229V032122

Health Super Top-Up UIN: The details mentioned above are for Reliance Health Super Top Up. UIN- RELHLIP21617V012021.

Tax Benefits: Tax benefits are subject to conditions under Section 80D of the Act and amendments thereof. The tax laws are subject to amendments/changes from time to time. Please consult your tax advisor for details.

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