Eye health is one of the most essential aspects of overall well-being, and modern ophthalmology has made it easier than ever to treat vision problems. From corrective laser eye surgery to advanced cataract procedures, thousands of people each year choose eye surgery in Vietnam for its world-class medical expertise, affordability, and international-standard hospitals.
Whether you are a local resident or an international medical tourist, Vietnam is rapidly emerging as a leading destination for ophthalmology procedures, thanks to its highly trained specialists, cutting-edge technology, and cost-effective packages.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most common types of eye surgeries in Vietnam, where to go for treatment, average costs, recovery process, and why Vietnam is considered a safe and reliable option for eye care in 2025.
Why Choose Eye Surgery in Vietnam?
There are several reasons why both Vietnamese patients and international visitors are increasingly opting for eye treatment in Vietnam:
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Affordable Prices – Compared to the U.S., Europe, Japan, or Singapore, surgery costs in Vietnam are often 60–80% lower without compromising quality.
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Advanced Technology – Leading hospitals use state-of-the-art equipment such as the Zeiss VisuMax femtosecond laser for SMILE and LASIK, and modern phacoemulsification systems for cataract removal.
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Experienced Surgeons – Vietnamese ophthalmologists are well-trained, many with international experience in Europe, the U.S., Japan, and Singapore.
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International Standards – Top facilities in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang follow strict safety protocols, ISO certifications, and JCI-accredited standards.
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Tourism-Friendly – Vietnam combines high-quality healthcare with the opportunity to enjoy a vibrant culture, cuisine, and natural beauty during recovery.
Common Types of Eye Surgery in Vietnam
1. LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)
LASIK is the most popular form of laser eye surgery to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. The procedure reshapes the cornea with a precision laser, improving vision almost instantly.
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Duration: 15–20 minutes per eye
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Recovery: Most patients see improved vision within 24 hours
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Cost in Vietnam: USD 1,000–1,500 (both eyes)
2. SMILE Pro (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction Professional)
SMILE Pro is the newest generation of laser vision correction available at selected hospitals in Vietnam. It uses a femtosecond laser to create a small incision, offering a minimally invasive procedure with faster recovery.
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Advantages: Less dry eye, faster healing, flap-free surgery
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Cost in Vietnam: USD 1,500–2,000 (both eyes)
3. Cataract Surgery
Cataract removal is one of the most common ophthalmic procedures in Vietnam, especially for elderly patients. Surgeons replace the cloudy lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
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Modern method: Phacoemulsification with foldable IOL
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Cost in Vietnam: USD 800–1,200 per eye (standard IOL), USD 1,500+ for premium lenses (multifocal/toric)
4. Glaucoma Surgery
For patients with uncontrolled intraocular pressure, glaucoma surgery in Vietnam involves laser trabeculoplasty, drainage implants, or trabeculectomy.
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Cost: USD 700–1,200 depending on the method
5. Retinal and Vitreous Surgery
Vietnamese hospitals also provide treatment for complex conditions such as retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration.
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Cost: USD 1,000–3,000 depending on complexity
6. Cosmetic Eye Surgery
Beyond medical needs, Vietnam is also well-known for cosmetic eye surgeries such as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), double eyelid creation, or ptosis correction.
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Cost: USD 600–1,500
Top Hospitals and Clinics for Eye Surgery in Vietnam
1. Vietnam National Institute of Ophthalmology (VNIO), Hanoi
The country’s leading eye hospital, specializing in advanced cataract, glaucoma, and retinal surgeries. It also serves as a research and training center for ophthalmology.
2. Mat Quoc Te (International Eye Hospital), Hanoi
A private hospital with modern SMILE Pro, LASIK, and cataract surgery technology. Known for English-speaking staff and high international patient satisfaction.
3. Vinmec International Hospital System
With branches in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, Vinmec provides premium eye surgery services using state-of-the-art equipment and internationally trained ophthalmologists.
4. FV Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City
A JCI-accredited hospital with a strong ophthalmology department, offering advanced eye treatments and personalized care for medical tourists.
5. American Eye Center, Ho Chi Minh City
Specializing in LASIK, SMILE, and other laser vision correction procedures, this clinic is well-suited for expats and international patients.
Cost Comparison: Vietnam vs. Other Countries
| Procedure | Vietnam (USD) | Thailand (USD) | Singapore (USD) | USA (USD) |
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| LASIK (both eyes) | 1,000–1,500 | 1,800–2,500 | 3,000–4,000 | 4,000–6,000 |
| SMILE Pro | 1,500–2,000 | 2,500–3,200 | 4,000–5,000 | 5,000–6,000 |
| Cataract Surgery | 800–1,200 | 1,500–2,000 | 3,000–4,000 | 4,000–6,000 |
Clearly, Vietnam provides significant cost savings while maintaining comparable levels of safety and expertise.
What to Expect as a Patient
Before Surgery
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Comprehensive eye examination
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Corneal topography and pupil analysis
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Consultation with an ophthalmologist
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Blood tests or imaging if required
During Surgery
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Painless, minimally invasive procedure under local anesthesia
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Advanced laser or micro-surgical systems ensure precision
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Duration: 15–60 minutes depending on the surgery type
After Surgery
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Most patients can resume daily activities within 1–3 days (LASIK/SMILE)
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Full recovery for cataract or retinal surgeries may take a few weeks
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Follow-up visits are necessary to monitor healing
Safety and Quality Standards
Vietnam’s top hospitals follow international safety protocols, sterile environments, and FDA/CE-approved medical devices. Infection rates are low, and success rates for procedures like LASIK exceed 95%.
Patient Testimonials
Many international patients report satisfaction with:
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Clearer vision within hours after LASIK
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Professional, English-speaking staff at premium hospitals
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Affordable packages that include consultation, surgery, follow-up, and sometimes hotel support
A Vietnamese ophthalmologist examining a patient’s eye using a slit lamp at a modern clinic in Vietnam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is eye surgery in Vietnam safe?
Yes. Reputable hospitals use the same technology as in the U.S. or Europe and have highly skilled ophthalmologists.
2. How long should I stay in Vietnam after surgery?
For LASIK/SMILE, 5–7 days is enough. For cataract or retinal surgery, plan for at least 2 weeks for follow-up visits.
3. Do hospitals provide English-speaking support?
Yes, major international hospitals and private clinics have English-speaking doctors and staff.
4. Can I combine treatment with a holiday?
Absolutely. Many patients recover in comfort while enjoying Vietnam’s beaches, resorts, and cultural attractions.
Conclusion
Eye surgery in Vietnam is a safe, affordable, and high-quality option for patients seeking vision correction or treatment of eye diseases. With modern technology, skilled doctors, and competitive pricing, Vietnam is now on the map as a top destination for ophthalmology and medical tourism.
If you are considering LASIK, SMILE Pro, cataract surgery, or other eye treatments, Vietnam offers excellent care at a fraction of the cost you would pay elsewhere.
Ready for clearer vision?
Get a personalized plan for eye surgery in Vietnam — LASIK, SMILE, or cataract treatment at leading hospitals.