Sankara Nethralaya in Chennai stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of ophthalmology. Known for its world-class treatments, cutting-edge technology, and deep-rooted values, the hospital has touched millions of lives with its mission to deliver affordable eye care across India.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1978 by Dr. S. S. Badrinath |
| Location | Nungambakkam, Chennai (with multiple branches) |
| Specialties | Retina, Cataract, LASIK, Cornea, Glaucoma, Pediatric, Oculoplasty |
| Notable Innovations | PRK, LASIK, Teleophthalmology, Mobile Eye Surgical Units |
| Training & Research | Fellowships, International Collaborations, Clinical Research |
| Community Initiatives | Free rural eye camps, free surgeries, mobile screening camps |
| Website | www.sankaranethralaya.org |
| Contact Number | #ERROR! |
The Legacy and Vision Behind Sankara Nethralaya
Founded in 1978 by Dr. S. S. Badrinath, Sankara Nethralaya began as a humble 17-bed hospital in a bungalow on College Road, Nungambakkam. Inspired by Acharya Jayendra Saraswathi of the Kanchi Mutt, Dr. Badrinath envisioned an institution that not only provided world-class eye care but also remained deeply accessible to the common man.
Today, Sankara Nethralaya is more than just a hospital—it’s a movement that combines medical excellence with compassionate service.
A Journey of Growth and Impact
Over the years, Sankara Nethralaya has evolved into one of the best eye hospitals in India, serving both national and international patients. With multiple branches across Chennai and collaborations with global institutions, it has received numerous awards and recognition for its service to the visually impaired.
Advanced Medical Services at Sankara Nethralaya
Sankara Nethralaya offers a comprehensive range of specialized eye care services:
- Vitreo-Retinal Services – For conditions like diabetic retinopathy and retinal detachment
- Cataract Surgery – Using advanced techniques and premium intraocular lenses
- Cornea and Refractive Surgery – Including PRK and LASIK for vision correction
- Glaucoma Treatment, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Neuro-Ophthalmology, and Oculoplasty
Each department is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical tools, ensuring the best outcomes for patients.
Innovation in Eye Care
Sankara Nethralaya was among the first in India to introduce Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) and later, laser eye surgeries like LASIK. The hospital continues to lead through the adoption of AI in diagnostics, teleophthalmology for remote care, and digital health records to enhance patient safety.
Making Quality Eye Care Accessible
What makes Sankara Nethralaya truly special is its strong commitment to community service:
- Conducting free eye camps in rural areas
- Operating Mobile Eye Surgical Units (MESUs) for underserved regions
- Offering subsidized or free treatment for economically weaker sections
Through these initiatives, thousands of patients receive the gift of vision each year, regardless of their financial status.
Education, Research, and Global Recognition
Sankara Nethralaya is not only a hospital but also a center of academic excellence. It offers:
- Fellowships and postgraduate training in ophthalmology
- Research opportunities in ocular sciences
- Collaborations with institutes like IIT-Madras and the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Its in-house research team contributes significantly to global ophthalmic literature and innovation.
How to Reach Sankara Nethralaya in Chennai
Main Campus Location:
No. 18, College Road, Nungambakkam, Chennai – 600006
Contact: +91-44-2827 1616 / 2821 1616
Website: www.sankaranethralaya.org
Appointments can be easily booked online through their official website or via phone. The hospital has multiple branches across Chennai for ease of access.
Patient Stories and Testimonials
From elderly patients regaining sight after cataract surgery to young children treated for congenital eye issues, Sankara Nethralaya is filled with success stories. The hospital’s empathetic approach has earned it a loyal base of patients who return not just for treatment—but for trust.
A Tribute to Dr. S. S. Badrinath
Even after his passing in 2023, the legacy of Dr. S. S. Badrinath continues to guide Sankara Nethralaya. His belief in combining clinical skill with spiritual commitment shaped a model of healthcare that remains unmatched.
1. Founder’s Vision
Dr. S. S. Badrinath envisioned a hospital where clinical excellence met spiritual compassion. With blessings from Acharya Jayendra Saraswathi of Kanchi Mutt, he established Sankara Nethralaya to serve patients irrespective of their financial background.
2. State-of-the-Art Treatments
The hospital has introduced India to several new technologies in eye care, including:
- Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)
- LASIK surgery for refractive errors
- Advanced vitreo-retinal surgeries
- Corneal transplants and glaucoma care
3. Affordable and Accessible
One of Sankara Nethralaya’s core missions is to make quality eye care affordable. It offers:
- Free treatment for economically weaker sections
- Tie-ups with NGOs and government schemes
- Eye camps and Mobile Eye Surgical Units (MESUs) that serve remote villages
Departments and Services
| Department | Services Offered |
|---|---|
| Vitreo-Retinal Services | Diabetic Retinopathy, Retinal Detachment, Macular Degeneration |
| Cataract Services | Micro-incision Surgery, Premium IOLs |
| Cornea & Refractive | PRK, LASIK, Keratoconus Management |
| Pediatric Ophthalmology | Squint Correction, Pediatric Cataract |
| Glaucoma Services | Visual Field Testing, Surgical & Non-Surgical Treatment |
| Oculoplasty | Cosmetic Eye Surgery, Eye Tumors, Tear Duct Surgery |
Medical Education and Research
Sankara Nethralaya is a hub for medical learning. It trains ophthalmologists through:
- Postgraduate courses and fellowships
- Ongoing clinical research
- Partnerships with IIT-Madras, Harvard, and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
How to Book an Appointment at Sankara Nethralaya
Booking a consultation is easy:
- Visit www.sankaranethralaya.org
- Choose “Appointments” and select your location/specialty
- Fill in the required details
- You can also call +91-44-2827 1616 for offline appointments
Testimonials from Patients
Many patients have described their experience at Sankara Nethralaya as life-changing. From restoring vision after complex retinal surgeries to helping children overcome squint issues, the hospital is known for its empathy, expertise, and ethics.
Conclusion: Why Sankara Nethralaya is the Best Eye Hospital in Chennai
For anyone seeking trusted eye care in Chennai, Sankara Nethralaya stands out as a symbol of quality, compassion, and innovation. Whether you need advanced treatment, a simple checkup, or community-based support, this hospital continues to redefine eye care—one patient at a time.
