Updated 16 October 2026. The Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) publishes a phaco cataract surgery charge of Rs 10,000, with a discounted Rs 7,500 rate for eligible overseas Pakistanis. A 2026 newspaper report describes some private-sector cataract operations costing Rs 100,000–300,000. These figures are not equivalent quotations for the same lens and services.
The difference raises a question patients should ask before surgery: what exactly is included in the package?
Published cataract surgery costs in Pakistan
| Source | Amount (PKR) | What it represents |
|---|---|---|
| OPF | 10,000 | Listed phaco surgery charge |
| OPF | 7,500 | Listed eligible overseas Pakistani discounted rate |
| OPF | 7,000 | Separate IOL implant surgery category; not necessarily an add-on |
| LRBT | 12,500 / 16,800 | Charitable sponsorship estimates for specified cataract treatment categories; not patient fees |
| Al-Shifa Trust | 50,000 | Donor sponsorship amount; not a patient fee |
| Express Tribune (2026) | 100,000–300,000 | Reported private-sector range, not a nationwide average |
References: OPF health services, LRBT sponsorship information, Al-Shifa Trust sponsorship and Express Tribune reporting. The OPF webpage does not clearly establish when its tariff took effect. Obtain a fresh written quote.
Why lens choice changes the quotation
Cataract surgery removes the cloudy natural lens and usually replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). A monofocal lens generally focuses best at one distance, so glasses may still be needed. A toric lens may address suitable astigmatism. Multifocal and extended-depth-of-focus lenses can reduce reliance on spectacles for some patients, but may cause halos or glare and are not suitable for everyone.
The most expensive lens is not automatically the best lens. Patients should ask for its brand, model and clinical rationale. See the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s lens guidance.
Is laser cataract surgery better than phaco?
Conventional phacoemulsification uses ultrasound to remove the cloudy lens. Femtosecond laser-assisted surgery automates selected steps. Higher cost alone does not establish better overall visual outcomes. The choice should reflect the ophthalmologist’s assessment, not an advertisement.
Free or subsidised cataract treatment
LRBT lists its eye-care facilities and describes free care for people in need. Al-Shifa Trust publishes donor sponsorship options. A sponsorship amount is not a bill presented to a patient. Government hospitals may also provide subsidised services, subject to availability, referral rules and supplies.
Haji Rang Elahi Eye & General Hospital, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi
Karachi residents may also wish to enquire at Haji Rang Elahi Eye & General Hospital, Street 4B, Block 4, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, near Disco Bakers. Public directories describe its longstanding eye-care services, including cataract treatment. The listed telephone number is 021-34974534. This is a facility reference, not a verified current surgery quotation or endorsement of clinical outcomes. Confirm eye-surgeon availability, lens options, charges and eligibility directly.
Sources: hospital directory and history; address listing.
What should a written cataract surgery quote include?
| Component | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Surgery | Phaco, manual small-incision or laser-assisted? |
| Lens | Exact type, brand and model? |
| Preoperative testing | Biometry and retinal assessment included? |
| Hospital fees | Surgeon, theatre and anaesthesia included? |
| Medicines | Postoperative drops included? |
| Follow-up | How many visits included? |
| Additional care | What costs apply if complications occur? |
| Scope | Price for one eye or both? |
Insurance and diabetes considerations
Cataract surgery coverage depends on the individual insurance policy, including day-care benefits, waiting periods and lens limits. Request insurer approval where required. For more, read Health Insurance After Retirement in Pakistan.
People with diabetes may have retinal disease that limits visual improvement after cataract removal. The eye specialist should assess the retina and explain expected results. Severe postoperative pain, significant worsening of vision or a new curtain-like shadow requires urgent medical assessment.
Clear explanations and consent are essential. See Why Pakistani Patients Struggle to Get Clear Answers From Hospitals.
What the prices really tell us
An OPF tariff, a charity’s donor sponsorship amount and a newspaper’s reported private price range measure different things. Combining them into an average would mislead readers. A useful quotation must identify the surgical method, exact implanted lens and included services. Without that information, even a striking price gap proves little about value.
Editorial note: Published amounts are reference information checked in October 2026, not guaranteed current patient prices. No personal patient experience is included in this version; any family account can be added later with accurate details and consent. Medical decisions should be made with a qualified ophthalmologist.