What is it?
In premature babies the blood vessels of the retina have not finished growing. In some babies they grow abnormally, which can pull the retina off and cause lifelong blindness. This is retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).
Indian guidelines advise screening all babies born before 34 weeks or under 2,000 g, and older or bigger babies who had a difficult time in the NICU (oxygen, sepsis, transfusions). The first check is by day 20 to 30 of life, then every 1 to 2 weeks until the retina matures.
Signs
- There are no symptoms a parent can see
- Screening is the only way to detect ROP
Risk factors and causes
- Birth before 34 weeks
- Birth weight under 2 kg
- Oxygen therapy
- Sepsis, blood transfusion, breathing problems
Ask your NICU or paediatrician for the first ROP check by day 20 to 30 of life. Do not miss follow-up dates.
Call +91 98306 66650How it is diagnosed
- Dilated retina examination with a baby speculum and indirect ophthalmoscope, done in a few minutes
- Wide-field retinal imaging where available
Treatment options
Observation
Mild ROP usually regresses on its own and is followed until it does.
Laser
Treatment-requiring ROP is treated with laser to the immature retina, usually within 48 to 72 hours of diagnosis.
Anti-VEGF injection
Used in some severe forms, sometimes with laser.
ROP in premature babies cost in Kolkata
ROP screening typically costs ₹500 to ₹1,500 per visit in Kolkata, and ROP laser ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per eye. Call Spectra to arrange screening.
| Treatment / test | At Spectra | Typical Kolkata range |
|---|---|---|
| ROP screening (premature baby)per visit | Written estimate | ₹500 – ₹1,500 |
| ROP laser treatmentper eye | Written estimate | ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Anti-VEGF injection (Spectra standard)per injection | ₹10,000 – ₹12,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹30,000 |
Spectra prices are those published by Spectra Eye Hospital. Kolkata ranges are indicative 2026 ranges across private eye hospitals in the city. Your final cost depends on the eye, the medicine, and the gas, oil or lens used, and is given to you in writing before any procedure.
Cashless and government schemes
Retina specialists for rop in premature babies
Dr. Subhajit Das
MBBS, DO, MS (Ophthalmology), FICO, FMRF
25+ years in medical and surgical retina, 7,500+ retinal procedures, vitreo-retina fellowship at Sankara Nethralaya (FMRF), ZEISS trained.
- Retinal detachment surgery
- Vitrectomy
- Scleral buckle
- Anti-VEGF injections
Dr. Bishwanath Dutta Chowdhury
MBBS, DO, DNB, VR Fellowship
Fellowship-trained retina surgeon at Madhyamgram for retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
- Retina & vitreous surgery
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Macular degeneration
- Uveitis
Frequently asked questions
Which babies need an ROP check?
All babies born before 34 weeks or under 2 kg, and bigger babies who needed oxygen or were very unwell in the NICU.
When should the first ROP check be done?
By day 20 to 30 of life, or as advised by your neonatologist.
Is ROP screening painful for the baby?
It is uncomfortable for a minute or two. Numbing drops are used, and the baby is fed and comforted afterwards.
Related
Written by the retina team at Spectra Eye Hospital. Last updated 22 October 2026. This page explains common situations and is not a substitute for an eye examination.