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NAME OF THE INSTITUTE
Narayana Nethralaya (NN), Bengaluru
STIPEND & FEES
- Monthly Remuneration: ₹56,000
- Caution Deposit: ₹1,00,000 (Upfront, non-refundable if the candidate leaves mid-term).
- Exit Clause: Candidates dropping out must repay the total stipend received before certificates are released.
DURATION
24 Months (2 Years)
- Note: While NN offers an 18-month RGUHS track, the internal institutional fellowship is typically 2 years.
HONEST REVIEW
- Selection: Intake via a formal Zoom interview. The program is designed for candidates who have a baseline proficiency in SICS and are looking to transition into high-end Phaco and Refractive surgery.
- Surgical Progression:
- Cataract: Training starts with SICS to establish safety. Fellows typically perform 150+ Phacos, including significant exposure to topical phacoemulsification. Training covers various cataract types, including complex cases, though specific formal training in complication management is described as “on-the-go.”
- Refractive: This is a major highlight. Fellows receive extensive hands-on training in LASIK, PRK, SMILE, ICL, INTACS, and C3R. You also master advanced biometry, Toric IOL planning, and patient selection for premium lenses.
- Research & Academics: Research is not optional; it is mandatory. Expect a heavy load of data collation, Excel work, and PowerPoint preparation.
- The Perk: In exchange for the research rigor, NN provides unparalleled support for national and international conferences. Representing the NN brand at these podiums is a significant career accelerator.
- Work Culture: The environment is intense. Days start at 8:00 AM and usually end around 6:30 PM, though the first six months often require late evening work.
- Duties: Includes regular night, Sunday, and outreach camp duties. Sunday mornings typically involve refractive rounds, though the rest of the day is usually free thereafter.
PERSONAL OPINION
This is a “Clinician-Scientist” fellowship. It is the perfect choice for an ambitious surgeon who wants to be at the absolute forefront of Refractive technology and doesn’t mind the “crazy” workload and research requirements. You graduate not just as a surgeon, but as a recognized name in the academic community. However, it is not for those seeking a relaxed schedule or purely surgical “numbers” without the academic baggage.
