Cataract Surgery in Vietnam: Costs & Best Hospitals 2025

Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people as they age. They occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and sensitivity to light. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a safe and highly effective treatment, restoring clear vision and improving quality of life.

In recent years, Vietnam has become a popular destination for cataract surgery thanks to its combination of skilled ophthalmologists, modern facilities, and affordable pricing compared to Western countries. For medical tourists, Vietnam offers world-class care at a fraction of the cost while also providing the opportunity to recover in one of Asia’s most beautiful travel destinations.

This guide explores everything you need to know about cataract surgery in Vietnam—from procedures and costs to top hospitals, recovery, and travel tips.

Why Choose Vietnam for Cataract Surgery?

There are several compelling reasons why international patients are increasingly considering Vietnam for cataract treatment:

• Affordable Pricing – Surgery in Vietnam is significantly cheaper than in countries such as the US, Australia, or Singapore, often costing 60–80% less.

• High-Quality Care – Major hospitals in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang are equipped with advanced diagnostic tools and surgical technology, including phacoemulsification and femtosecond laser systems.

• Experienced Ophthalmologists – Many eye surgeons trained abroad (France, Japan, the US) and bring international expertise to their practice.

• Short Waiting Times – Unlike in some countries with long queues, patients in Vietnam can usually schedule surgery quickly.

• Medical Tourism Friendly – Hospitals provide English-speaking staff, translators, and international insurance support.

Understanding Cataract Surgery

What Is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is the removal of the cloudy lens and replacement with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure restores clear vision and usually takes less than 30 minutes per eye.

Types of Cataract Surgery Available in Vietnam

1. Phacoemulsification (Phaco Surgery)

   • The most common technique.

   • Uses ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens before replacing it with an IOL.

   • Requires only a tiny incision, promoting faster healing.

2. Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS)

   • Advanced method available at top private hospitals in Vietnam.

   • Uses laser precision to create incisions and soften the lens.

   • Provides more accuracy and less trauma to the eye.

3. Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE)

   • Less common in modern practice, but still performed in certain hospitals.

   • Recommended for advanced cataracts where phaco surgery is less effective.

Cost of Cataract Surgery in Vietnam

Prices vary depending on the hospital, surgeon, and type of lens chosen.

• Standard Phacoemulsification Surgery:
  Around USD 800 – 1,200 per eye in private hospitals.

• Premium IOL Packages (multifocal, toric, or aspheric lenses):
  Around USD 1,500 – 2,500 per eye.

• Public Hospitals:
  Government hospitals such as Vietnam National Eye Hospital (Hanoi) or Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital may offer lower costs, starting from USD 400 – 700 per eye, though with longer waiting times.

Compared to countries like the US (USD 3,500 – 5,000 per eye) or Australia (USD 2,500 – 4,000 per eye), Vietnam offers substantial savings without compromising quality.

Cataract surgery in Vietnam performed with advanced equipment and international-standard care.

Leading Hospitals for Cataract Surgery in Vietnam

1. Vietnam National Eye Hospital (Hanoi)

• One of the largest and most specialized eye hospitals in the country.

• Offers comprehensive ophthalmology services including advanced cataract procedures.

• Equipped with phaco and laser systems.

2. FV Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City)

• JCI-accredited international hospital.

• Modern ophthalmology department with English-speaking doctors.

• Provides premium lens options for international patients.

3. Tam Anh General Hospital (Hanoi & HCMC)

• Known for advanced eye microsurgery.

• Specializes in phaco and FLACS.

• Offers international patient services.

4. Ho Chi Minh City Eye Hospital

• High-volume public hospital with affordable cataract care.

• Trusted by thousands of local patients each year.

5. Vinmec Healthcare System

• A network of international-standard hospitals.

• Provides modern cataract surgery options with comfortable recovery facilities.

Step-by-Step Patient Journey

If you are considering cataract surgery in Vietnam, here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Consultation

   • Eye examination, vision test, and cataract assessment.

   • Discussion of lens options (monofocal, multifocal, toric).

2. Pre-Surgery Preparations

   • Routine blood tests and health check-ups.

   • Instructions on fasting and medication.

3. Surgery Day

   • Local anesthesia (eye drops).

   • 20–30 minute surgery with minimal discomfort.

   • Most patients return home the same day.

4. Recovery

   • Eye drops prescribed for infection and inflammation prevention.

   • Follow-up visits at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month post-surgery.

   • Normal activities can usually be resumed within 2–3 days, with full recovery in 4–6 weeks.

Travel and Recovery Tips for Medical Tourists

• Length of Stay: Plan to stay in Vietnam for at least 1–2 weeks to allow for surgery and follow-up visits.

• Accommodation: Many hospitals partner with nearby hotels for recovery packages.

• Translation Services: Private hospitals offer English-speaking staff, but in public hospitals you may need an interpreter.

• Insurance: Check if your international insurance covers procedures abroad. Some hospitals in Vietnam accept direct billing.

• Tourism & Recovery: Patients often combine treatment with gentle sightseeing in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or coastal cities like Da Nang and Nha Trang.

Risks and Safety

Cataract surgery is generally safe, but like all procedures, it carries some risks:

• Infection

• Inflammation

• Swelling of the cornea

• Secondary cataract (posterior capsule opacification)

These risks are rare, especially when surgery is performed by experienced ophthalmologists at reputable hospitals.

Why Cataract Surgery in Vietnam Makes Sense

Choosing Vietnam for cataract surgery provides:

• Top-quality care at affordable prices.

• Access to advanced technology like femtosecond lasers.

• International-standard hospitals with bilingual staff.

• Quick scheduling with minimal wait times.

For retirees, expats, and international patients, Vietnam has become a reliable and cost-effective medical tourism hub for ophthalmology.

Conclusion

Cataract surgery is a life-changing procedure that restores clarity and independence. With its skilled eye surgeons, modern facilities, and competitive costs, Vietnam stands out as one of the best destinations for this treatment in Asia.

Whether you choose a large public hospital or a luxury private facility, you can expect safe, effective, and affordable cataract surgery in Vietnam. For medical tourists, it’s the perfect combination of healthcare excellence and travel opportunity.