Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital has launched the Wavelight® EX500 Contoura Excimer Laser in Bengaluru to address the growing prevalence of myopia and astigmatism, linking the rise in cases to higher screen time and reduced outdoor activity.
Bengaluru is experiencing a sharp increase in refractive errors such as myopia and astigmatism, particularly among children, young adults, and IT professionals exposed to long hours of digital screen use. Eye specialists attribute the trend to reduced outdoor activity combined with academic and workplace pressures.
In response, Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital introduced the Wavelight® EX500 Contoura Excimer Laser, a topography-guided LASIK system designed to provide more precise and personalised vision correction. Unlike conventional LASIK, Contoura Vision maps up to 22,000 unique points on the cornea, enabling treatment that corrects not only common refractive errors but also subtle corneal irregularities that glasses or standard procedures may not address.
Dr. Amod Nayak, Head of Clinical Services at the hospital, explained that younger populations are most vulnerable to lifestyle-driven refractive errors. “Contoura Vision technology allows us to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, while also improving microscopic corneal irregularities. Patients above 18 years can expect sharper, more natural vision outcomes.”
Supporting this, Dr. Sanjana Vatsa, Cornea and Refractive Surgeon, noted the broader role of refractive surgery. “For many patients, refractive surgery is not just cosmetic, it impacts comfort, productivity, and long-term eye health. With faster recovery, patients are able to return to work within two to three days.”
During the press interaction, hospital representatives highlighted practical considerations for patients. Recovery generally takes one week, though most patients see clarity within 48 hours. While temporary dry eyes may occur, doctors said long-term side effects can be avoided with proper care, such as avoiding eye rubbing and limiting prolonged screen exposure.
On accessibility, officials acknowledged that Contoura Vision will initially be available in select centres including Bengaluru, Chennai, and Salem, given the high cost of the technology. However, the free refractive evaluation used to determine patient eligibility will be accessible across all Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital centres nationwide. This test, they added, helps patients make informed decisions without upfront cost.
Addressing affordability, the hospital stated that pricing will be aligned with market standards, structured through treatment packages tailored to patient needs. “Affordability and access remain key considerations. Our model ensures that patients can choose from packages while maintaining treatment quality,” the spokesperson said.
With 13 facilities in Bengaluru and over 65 refractive machines across India, Dr Agarwal’s Eye Hospital performs between 2,500 and 3,000 refractive surgeries monthly. The addition of Contoura Vision reflects a broader trend in ophthalmology where technology-led precision treatments are being scaled selectively, balancing advanced care with considerations of cost and reach.
For healthcare stakeholders, this development underscores both the rising burden of vision problems linked to lifestyle shifts and the growing role of technology in offering customised, efficient solutions. The expansion also raises questions of how private providers can balance affordability, accessibility, and cutting-edge care, particularly as refractive disorders increasingly affect working-age populations.
