Did you know that as per the World Health Organization, uncorrected refractive errors are the leading cause of vision impairment worldwide? Shockingly, only 36% of individuals with distance vision impairment due to refractive errors have access to corrective measures like spectacles. This contributes to a staggering 2.2 billion people globally suffering from vision impairment, nearly 1 billion of whom could have been prevented or treated with proper eye care.
This gap forces many to choose refractive specs removal surgery types. Lasik surgery to remove glasses gives clearer vision. There is no need to further wear glasses or contact lenses. Spectacle removal surgeries, known as refractive surgeries, correct vision issues. Eye surgery to remove glasses, performed at Best Eye Hospital, primarily has two categories: laser-based surgeries and implant-based surgeries.
Can Specs Be Removed Permanently? (चश्मा हटाने का ऑपरेशन)
Yes, absolutely! Specs can be removed permanently through refractive surgery, also known as chasma hatane ka operation in Hindi. These surgeries correct the root cause of your vision problem, the shape of your eye, so that light focuses correctly without glasses or contact lenses.
But here is what you should know before choosing one:
- Permanent vision correction works best when your eye power has been stable for at least one year.
- You must be 18 years or older for most procedures.
- Not everyone qualifies for every surgery. Your corneal thickness, eye number and overall eye health decide which option suits you best.
- Most patients achieve clear, glasses-free vision that lasts for decades.
The good news? With five proven surgery options available today, there is almost always a solution, whether your power is low, high, or your corneas are thin. Let us explain each one clearly.
Specs Removal Surgery Names: What Are They Called?
Confused by the names? Many patients come to us asking, “What is the name of the operation to remove specs?” or “which eye surgery removes glasses permanently?” Here is a simple list of all specs removal surgery names so you always know what your doctor is referring to:
| Surgery Name | Full Form | What It Does |
|---|---|---|
| LASIK | Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis | Removes the outer corneal layer, then reshapes |
| PRK | Photorefractive Keratectomy | Removes outer corneal layer, then reshapes |
| SMILE | Small Incision Lenticule Extraction | Flapless laser surgery for nearsightedness |
| ICL | Implantable Collamer Lens | Lens implanted inside the eye; reversible |
| RLE | Refractive Lens Exchange | Natural lens replaced with artificial IOL |
All five fall under the broad category of refractive surgery, eye surgery for permanent eyesight correction. Now, let us understand how each one works and who it suits best.
Laser-Based Surgeries:

Laser-based eye surgery to remove glasses reshapes the cornea (the eye’s clear front surface). This improves your eyesight vision. Key types are LASIK, PRK, and SMILE.
- Each surgery for better vision uses precise lasers. These correct refractive errors – nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism.
- Clear vision surgery often gets completed within minutes and has high success rates.
- Studies show that LASIK and other laser-based vision correction surgeries have a 96% success rate, with most patients achieving 20/25 vision or better.
- Permanent vision correction takes a little time and recovery times vary.
- You need to have stable prescriptions and healthy corneas.
- Consulting with an eye specialist is strongly recommended to find out which eyeglass-free vision surgery will suit you.
Now let’s dig deeper into how these three are different from each other:
1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis):

During this glasses removal surgery procedure, a thin flap is created on the cornea’s surface. Next, it is lifted, and an excimer laser precisely removes corneal tissue to correct refractive errors. The flap is then placed back.
- LASIK effectively treats near-sightedness (Hypermetropia), farsightedness (Myopia) and astigmatism.
- Most patients get rapid visual improvement, often within 24 hours.
- Serious complications during laser surgery for specs removal are rare.
- Serious complications during laser surgery for specs removal are rare. Approximately 90% of LASIK patients achieve 20/20 vision or better, with around 99% achieving at least 20/40 vision.
2. PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy):
This specs removal surgery corrects mild to moderate vision problems. Unlike LASIK, PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) removes the cornea’s outer layer (epithelium) entirely before reshaping the underlying tissue via a laser. The epithelium regenerates over a few days after the eye surgery to remove specs.
- PRK is suitable for patients with thinner corneas
- It is also for those who cannot be treated via LASIK.
- Recovery is longer than LASIK; it takes several days to weeks.
- During recovery, you may face discomfort during healing and potential haze if you do not follow what your eye expert tells you.
- PRK has a slightly longer recovery period, but studies show that after six months, 95% of PRK patients achieve 20/25 vision or better.
3. SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction):

During this flapless laser surgery for specs removal, we correct nearsightedness. A femtosecond laser creates a small, lens-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea of your eye. Later, it is removed through a tiny cut. This reshapes the cornea and corrects your eyesight.
- SMILE eye surgery to remove specs involves a smaller incision than LASIK.
- Preserves corneal strength and reduces dry eye symptoms.
- Recovery is swift, with many patients resuming normal activities within a day or two.
- Studies show that 98% of SMILE patients achieve 20/40 vision or better, and 88% achieve 20/20 vision or better.
- Risks during this laser surgery for specs removal are minimal. But you may face temporary visual disturbances, if you don’t take proper care of your eyes.
2. Implant-Based Surgeries:
Implant-based glasses removal surgery involves placing artificial lenses inside the eye to correct vision. These surgeries add or replace lenses to achieve the required refractive outcome.
- Typically recommended for individuals unsuitable for LASIK surgery to remove glasses due to high prescriptions or thin corneas.
- Recovery times vary and as with any surgical procedure.
1. ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens):

This is a specific type of Phakic Intraocular Lens, During this eye surgery to remove glasses, a custom-made lens is implanted between the iris and the eye’s natural lens. This procedure corrects high degrees of nearsightedness. The implanted lens works with the eye’s natural lens to refocus light accurately onto the retina.
- Suitable for patients who may not be ideal candidates for laser Eye Surgery.
- Recovery is typically quick, with many patients experiencing improved vision within a day.
- ICL has a 99% satisfaction rate, with 93% of patients achieving 20/20 vision or better.
- USP – This eye surgery to remove glasses is reversible, offering flexibility for future treatments.
2. RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange):
This glasses removal surgery is similar to cataract surgery. Here, the affected eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens to fix the refractive errors.
- Suitable for individuals with presbyopia or high hyperopia. Here laser surgeries aren’t suitable.
- The procedure reduces your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. It may or may not be permanent vision correction.
- RLE has a 95% success rate in reducing dependency on glasses, with most patients achieving clear vision at multiple distances.
- Recovery varies per individual, with many resuming normal activities within a week.
- As with any surgery, there are risks. If you don’t take proper care, then an infection or lens displacement can occur. But this is rare.
Overall Caution: A thorough consultation with the best nearby eye care professional is essential to determine the most appropriate option. This would be based on individual vision needs and eye health.
Specs Removal Surgery Cost in India
Cost is one of the first things patients want to know. And rightly so, it helps you plan with a clear head. The good news is that specs removal surgery in India is far more affordable than in Western countries, with no compromise on technology or safety.
Here is a transparent overview of specs removal surgery cost in India, including what you can expect at Nihar Netralaya, Indore:
Specs Removal Surgery Cost in India (Per Eye)
| Surgery Type | Cost Range in India (Per Eye) | Why the Cost Varies |
|---|---|---|
| LASIK (Standard) | ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 | Machine type, clinic reputation, surgeon experience |
| LASIK (Bladeless / Femto) | ₹40,000 – ₹90,000 | Advanced bladeless laser technology |
| PRK | ₹18,000 – ₹40,000 | Older technique, less equipment-intensive |
| SMILE | ₹60,000 – ₹1,20,000 | Newer flapless technology; fewer clinics offer it |
| ICL | ₹70,000 – ₹1,60,000 | Custom-manufactured lens + surgical precision |
| RLE | ₹40,000 – ₹1,20,000 | Lens type (monofocal vs multifocal) affects cost |
Note: Prices are indicative and may vary based on your city, clinic, eye condition and lens choice. Always ask for a complete cost breakdown before deciding.
What Makes the Cost Higher or Lower?
The specs removal surgery cost is not random. It changes because of real factors that directly affect your outcome:
- Technology used: Bladeless lasers and advanced SMILE machines cost more to operate.
- Surgeon’s experience: An experienced eye surgeon brings fewer risks and better results.
- Lens type (for ICL/RLE): Multifocal lenses cost more but reduce dependence on reading glasses too.
- Pre-op tests and aftercare: Good hospitals include this in the package; always confirm what is included.
- City and clinic: Metro cities charge more due to higher overheads. Tier-2 cities like Indore often offer the same technology at a more honest price.
Specs Removal Surgery Cost at Nihar Netralaya, Indore
At Nihar Netralaya, we believe that quality eye care should not feel like a financial burden. Our surgery costs are transparent, clearly explained upfront, and include pre-operative eye evaluation and post-surgery follow-up care. Dr Mahesh Garg personally explains every cost detail before surgery, no hidden charges, no last-minute surprises.
Here is a quick look at the approximate cost range for each procedure at our centre:
- LASIK: ₹18,000 to ₹90,000 per eye (depending on standard or bladeless technology)
- PRK: ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 per eye
- SMILE: ₹60,000 to ₹1,20,000 per eye
- ICL: ₹70,000 to ₹1,60,000 per eye
- RLE: ₹40,000 to ₹1,20,000 per eye (varies with lens type)
Prices are approximate and may vary based on your eye condition and treatment plan. Contact us for an exact personalised estimate.
We also offer EMI options via Bajaj Finserv to make the payment easy and stress-free. Your path to clear vision should not be blocked by money worries. Come in for a consultation, let us check your eyes first, and then give you an honest, personalised cost estimate.
Risks and Complications in Specs Removal Surgery:
Specs removal surgery, including LASIK and SMILE, is highly effective, with a 96% success rate. But risks do exist in every glass removal surgery.
- Common side effects – dry eyes, glare, halos and temporary vision fluctuations.
- Rare long-term risks – corneal weakening (ectasia), night vision disturbances or rare infections.
- Some patients need retreatment due to under or over-correction after eye surgery to remove glasses.
- In very rare cases, scarring or improper healing can affect vision.
- Less than 1% of patients require a second enhancement procedure to refine vision correction.
- The risk of severe complications is less than 0.1%.
That is why we always advise that a thorough eye evaluation and expert eye surgeon near you, or a reputed Spectacle Store, is essential to minimize risks. Proper post-surgery care is key. Your vision is precious—choose the best eye expert wisely!
Eyeglass-Free Vision: Post-Surgery Care and Recovery Process
Recovery Timelines vary from person to person and case to case. But normally…
- LASIK & PRK – Initial recovery: 1–2 days, full vision: 2–3 months
- SMILE – Initial recovery: 1 day, full vision: 4–6 weeks
- ICL – Initial recovery: 2–3 days, full vision: 1–2 months
Do’s Post Specs Removal Surgery:
- Use prescribed eye drops as instructed.
- Wear protective sunglasses outdoors.
- Sleep with an eye shield for a week.
- Stay hydrated for faster healing.
Don’ts Post Specs Removal Surgery:
- No eye rubbing for a month.
- Avoid swimming, dust, and makeup for 2 weeks.
- No strenuous workouts or heavy lifting for 4 weeks.
Choosing the Right Glass Removal Surgery:

- LASIK – Best for mild to moderate refractive errors; quick recovery (1–2 days).
- PRK – Ideal for thin corneas; longer healing (2–3 months).
- SMILE – Suitable for myopia; flapless, faster healing (4–6 weeks).
- ICL – Great for high prescriptions; reversible, longer recovery (1–2 months).
Consult an ophthalmologist for a personalized recommendation based on corneal thickness, lifestyle, and vision goals.
Best Specs Removal Surgery in India, Why Nihar Netralaya, Indore
India today has world-class facilities for specs removal surgery, and patients from across Madhya Pradesh trust Nihar Netralaya, Indore for safe, affordable, and honest eye care. Here is why:
- 26+ years of experience: Dr Mahesh Garg has performed thousands of successful refractive surgeries with excellent outcomes.
- Advanced laser technology: We use modern laser systems for LASIK, Femto LASIK and SMILE procedures.
- Honest costs, no pressure: We explain every option and every rupee before you decide.
- Personalised treatment: No two eyes are the same. We plan each surgery based on your corneal map, eye power and lifestyle.
- EMI options available: Easy payment plans via Bajaj Finserv, so the cost never delays your treatment.
- Both locations in Indore: Mahesh Nagar and Scheme No. 140, near Agrawal Public School.
Take control of your sight with the right specs removal surgery option for a brighter future. Experience the freedom of eyeglass-free vision and enjoy life with clarity, because your eyes deserve the best care. Contact us today for a consultation or to know more.
Conclusion:
Take control of your sight with specs removal surgery options for a brighter future. Experience the freedom of eyeglass-free vision and enjoy life with clarity because your eyes deserve the best care! Contact us today for more details or further queries.
FAQ’s:
The best surgery depends on your eye condition, power level, and corneal health. LASIK is best for mild to moderate power, SMILE is ideal for dry eye concerns or athletes, and ICL suits those with very high power or thin corneas. Consult an ophthalmologist for a personalised recommendation.
It depends on your eye condition, lifestyle, and vision needs. Consult an eye specialist for the best recommendation.
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is the most popular flapless eye surgery. Unlike LASIK, it does not require creating a corneal flap. A tiny incision is made to remove a small piece of corneal tissue, reshaping the eye. It has a faster recovery and reduces dry eye risk compared to flap-based procedures.
Most specs removal surgeries are recommended for patients between 18 and 40 years of age, once the eye power has been stable for at least one year. RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange) is often suitable for patients above 40 with presbyopia. Your ophthalmologist will guide you based on your specific eye health.
Yes. Modern specs removal surgery has a 96% success rate with very rare serious complications. When performed by an experienced eye surgeon after a proper pre-surgery evaluation, it is one of the safest elective surgeries available today. Always choose a reputed eye centre for the best outcomes.


