Retinal detachment is one of the most serious eye emergencies, and without timely treatment, it can lead to severe and permanent vision loss. Many patients from around the world are now seeking retinal detachment surgery in Vietnam thanks to the country’s modern ophthalmology centers, internationally trained surgeons, and competitive treatment costs. This comprehensive guide explains the causes of retinal detachment, treatment options, what to expect during surgery and recovery, and why Vietnam has become a trusted destination for advanced retinal care.

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What Is Retinal Detachment?

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina—a thin layer of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye—separates from its supporting layer. When the retina detaches, it no longer receives adequate oxygen and nutrients, which can quickly result in vision impairment or blindness if left untreated.

There are three main types of retinal detachment:

1. Rhegmatogenous Detachment – caused by a tear or hole in the retina, allowing fluid to accumulate underneath.

2. Tractional Detachment – often linked to diabetic retinopathy when scar tissue pulls the retina away from the back of the eye.

3. Exudative Detachment – due to inflammation, tumors, or fluid accumulation without retinal tears.

Regardless of type, retinal detachment is a medical emergency. Surgery is the only effective treatment.

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Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

Many patients experience warning symptoms before the retina fully detaches. These include:

• Sudden appearance of floaters (dots, lines, dark spots)

• Flashes of light in one or both eyes

• Blurred or distorted vision

• A shadow or “curtain” coming across the visual field

• Sudden reduction in vision

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate care at an ophthalmology emergency center. Early treatment greatly improves the chance of restoring vision.

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Why Choose Vietnam for Retinal Detachment Surgery?

Vietnam has rapidly developed into a leading medical tourism hub in Southeast Asia, especially in the field of ophthalmology. Several factors make the country an excellent destination for retinal detachment treatment:

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1. Highly Skilled Retina Surgeons

Vietnam’s top ophthalmology centers employ retina specialists trained in the U.S., Europe, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea. Many have decades of experience handling complicated retinal detachments, diabetic retinopathy, and vitreoretinal disorders.

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2. Modern Equipment and Surgical Technology

Advanced equipment commonly used in Vietnam’s premium hospitals includes:

• Digital wide-angle viewing systems

• 25G and 27G microincision vitrectomy machines

• Endolaser photocoagulation

• Cryotherapy units

• Silicone oil and gas tamponade systems

The technology is equivalent to what you would find in international hospitals across Singapore or Thailand.

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3. Affordable Costs

Compared to Western countries, retinal detachment surgery in Vietnam costs 50–70% less, while maintaining high safety and clinical standards.

Typical cost range: USD 1,500 – 4,000, depending on the technique (vitrectomy, scleral buckle, pneumatic retinopexy) and hospital.

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4. Short Waiting Times

Vietnam’s private hospitals allow patients to schedule surgery within hours or within the same day, crucial for emergency retinal cases.

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5. Excellent Follow-Up Care

Hospitals in Vietnam provide comprehensive pre-operative consultations, imaging (OCT, fundus camera), and post-operative care with clear English-language support for foreign patients.

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Types of Retinal Detachment Surgery in Vietnam

There are several surgical approaches depending on the severity of detachment, tear location, and patient profile. In Vietnam, the three most common options include:

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1. Pneumatic Retinopexy

A minimally invasive procedure used for certain types of retinal tears.

How it works:

• A gas bubble is injected into the eye

• The bubble presses the retina back into place

• Laser or cryotherapy seals the tear

Advantages

• Less invasive

• Short recovery time

• Lower cost

Limitations

Not suitable for complex or extensive detachments.

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2. Scleral Buckling

A traditional and effective method, especially for younger patients.

How it works:

• A silicone band is placed around the eye

• The buckle relieves traction on the retina

• It helps reattach the retina and seal tears

Advantages

• Works well for certain rhegmatogenous detachments

• Long-term success rates are high

Limitations

• Requires more recovery time

• May cause temporary refractive changes

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3. Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV)

The most common technique used in Vietnam today, particularly for moderate to severe cases.

How it works:

• The vitreous gel causing traction is removed

• The retina is flattened using fluid, gas, or silicone oil

• Laser treatment seals the retinal tears

• Gas or silicone oil tamponade keeps the retina in place

Advantages

• Effective for complex detachments

• Allows precise visualization and control

• Suitable for diabetic and traumatic cases

Limitations

• Gas bubble requires restricted head positioning

• Silicone oil may need removal months later

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Costs of Retinal Detachment Surgery in Vietnam (2025)

Prices may vary depending on hospital, surgeon experience, severity, and materials used.

Estimated cost ranges:

These costs are significantly lower than in the U.S. ($8,000–$15,000) or Australia ($6,000–$10,000).

Most private hospitals in Vietnam offer package pricing that includes:

• Pre-operative evaluation

• Surgery

• Gas or silicone oil tamponade

• Surgeon fee

• Post-operative follow-up sessions

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Best Hospitals for Retinal Detachment Surgery in Vietnam

Vietnam offers multiple reputable hospitals specializing in retinal care.

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1. Vietnam National Eye Hospital (Hanoi)

The country’s leading ophthalmology center with renowned retina specialists and advanced diagnostic imaging. Suitable for complicated surgical cases.

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2. Hanoi French Hospital (HFH)

A premium international hospital with French-trained retina surgeons and high sterilization standards.

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3. Vinmec Times City International Hospital (Hanoi)

Modern equipment, advanced vitreoretinal surgery capabilities, and English-speaking staff.

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4. Saigon Eye Hospital System (HCMC)

A specialized eye hospital network experienced in handling hundreds of retinal detachment surgeries annually.

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5. American Eye Center (HCMC)

Equipped with U.S. technology and a strong vitreoretinal team, especially popular among expats.

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6. Hoan My Thu Duc Hospital (HCMC)

Offers affordable retinal surgery with qualified ophthalmologists and modern imaging technologies.

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What to Expect Before Surgery

1. Diagnostic Tests

Most hospitals will perform:

• Optical coherence tomography (OCT)

• Fundus photography

• Ultrasound (B-scan) if the retina cannot be visualized

• Visual acuity tests

2. Consultation with the Retina Specialist

They will discuss:

• Which surgical method is best

• Degree of detachment

• Expected outcomes

• Risks and complications

• Recovery timeline

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How Retinal Detachment Surgery Is Performed in Vietnam

The surgical process typically includes:

1. Local or general anesthesia

2. Retinal reattachment using one of the techniques above

3. Laser photocoagulation or cryopexy to seal retinal tears

4. Gas bubble or silicone oil insertion if necessary

5. Post-operative positioning instructions

The surgery typically lasts 1–2 hours depending on complexity.

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Recovery After Retinal Detachment Surgery

Recovery varies depending on the surgical technique and whether a gas or silicone oil bubble is used.

Typical recovery guidelines:

• Avoid strenuous activities for 2–4 weeks

• Avoid flying or high altitudes if a gas bubble is inside the eye

• Use prescribed eye drops for 4–6 weeks

• Sleep in the required head position (face-down or side-down) if instructed

• Attend all follow-up appointments

Most patients experience gradual improvement in vision over several weeks or months.

Possible Complications

• Recurrent retinal detachment

• Infection

• Cataract formation

• Elevated eye pressure

• Epiretinal membrane formation

However, with timely diagnosis and expert surgeons, success rates in Vietnam remain high.

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Success Rates of Retinal Detachment Surgery in Vietnam

Vietnam’s retina centers report success rates of 85–95% for primary surgery, similar to international benchmarks. In more complex cases requiring multiple procedures, long-term success remains very good with proper follow-up care.

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Traveling to Vietnam for Retinal Surgery

Vietnam is well-equipped to support international patients needing urgent eye care.

Benefits for international patients:

• Priority scheduling

• Private recovery rooms

• English-speaking interpreters

• Affordable hotel and transportation support

• Medical tourism assistance for visas and airport transfers

For emergency retinal care, many hospitals accept patients within the same day.

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Is Retinal Detachment Surgery in Vietnam Worth It?

Yes — Vietnam offers a combination of:

• Highly experienced retina surgeons

• International-standard operating rooms

• Modern surgical technology

• Fast access to emergency treatment

• Affordable, transparent pricing

These advantages have made Vietnam a leading choice for both local and international patients seeking safe, effective retinal detachment surgery.

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Conclusion

Retinal detachment is a vision-threatening condition requiring immediate surgical treatment. With state-of-the-art hospitals, skilled ophthalmologists, and competitive costs, Vietnam has become one of the best destinations in Asia for retinal detachment surgery. Whether you need pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling, or vitrectomy, patients can expect high-quality care, excellent outcomes, and comprehensive support throughout the treatment journey.

If you need help comparing hospitals or getting a cost estimate, MedtourVietnam can provide personalized guidance based on your diagnosis and medical reports.