Cataract Surgery in Vietnam: Cost, Types, Recovery, and How to Choose
Medical disclaimer: ZensiaCare is a medical concierge and care coordination service. We do not diagnose, treat, prescribe or promise medical outcomes. All medical decisions are made by licensed healthcare professionals and healthcare facilities.
How Much Does Cataract Surgery Cost in Vietnam?
The cataract surgery cost in Vietnam varies depending on the surgical technique, type of intraocular lens, hospital, diagnostic tests and post-operative care.
Current published international prices from Vinmec Da Nang provide an example of the range available in Vietnam. Cataract procedures are listed from 500$ to 2000$ depending on the procedure and IOL selected.
| Cataract Surgery | Vietnam (VND) | Approx. USD | Approx. AUD |
| Extracapsular cataract surgery | VND 12.96 million | US$497 | A$693 |
| Cataract surgery | VND 24 million | US$920 | A$1,283 |
| Phaco + Toric IOL | VND 28.8 million | US$1,103 | A$1,540 |
| Phaco + Multifocal ReSTOR IOL | VND 48 million | US$1,839 | A$2,567 |
| Phaco + Multifocal IOL for astigmatism | VND 60 million | US$2,299 | A$3,209 |
When comparing cataract surgery prices, international patients should confirm whether the quotation includes the IOL, diagnostic examinations, surgeon and operating costs, medication and follow-up appointments.
What Types of IOLs Are Available for Cataract Surgery?
The type of IOL can significantly affect both the treatment cost and the visual outcome.
A monofocal IOL is designed to provide clear vision at one primary distance, while Toric IOLs can help correct certain levels of astigmatism. Multifocal and other premium IOL options may provide a broader range of vision for selected patients, although they may come at a higher cost.
The most appropriate lens depends on factors such as your eye health, existing refractive error, lifestyle and visual expectations. An ophthalmologist should assess your eyes and discuss the available IOL options before surgery.
Who May Need Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery may be recommended when a cataract begins to interfere with everyday activities or causes significant visual problems. However, surgery does not necessarily need to be performed as soon as a cataract is diagnosed.
Your ophthalmologist will assess your vision, the severity of the cataract and your overall eye health before determining whether surgery is appropriate. The National Eye Institute notes that patients generally do not need to rush into cataract surgery and should discuss the benefits and risks with their eye doctor.
If cataracts affect both eyes, surgery is generally performed separately rather than on both eyes at the same time.
How Long Should International Patients Stay in Vietnam for Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery itself is usually relatively quick, and many patients can return home on the same day after the procedure. However, international patients should allow additional time for pre-operative examinations and post-operative follow-up.
For an uncomplicated case, staying in Vietnam for around 7–10 days can be a practical planning estimate. This allows time for the initial examination, surgery, early recovery and at least one follow-up appointment before travelling home.
Your actual schedule may be different depending on the surgeon’s protocol, whether one or both eyes require treatment and your individual recovery.
Note: 7–10 days is a practical travel-planning estimate, not a required recovery period. Your ophthalmologist should confirm when you are fit to travel.
Where Can International Patients Have Cataract Surgery in Vietnam?
Major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang offer specialist eye-care services and private hospitals that treat cataracts.
Hanoi – A Major Eye-Care Destination
Hanoi has specialist ophthalmology hospitals and private eye-care providers offering cataract assessment, Phaco surgery and different IOL options. The city can also be convenient for international patients who need accommodation, transportation and follow-up support during their stay.
Ho Chi Minh City – A Major Healthcare Hub
Ho Chi Minh City has a large private healthcare sector and strong international travel connectivity. International patients can access a range of ophthalmology services while benefiting from extensive accommodation and transportation options.
Da Nang – Healthcare and Recovery in One Destination
Da Nang may appeal to international patients who prefer to combine medical care with a more relaxed stay. Current international pricing from Vinmec Da Nang provides examples of Phaco and IOL packages ranging from VND 28.8 million to VND 60 million depending on the lens option.
The best location should not simply be the one with the lowest advertised price. Consider the ophthalmologist, diagnostic facilities, IOL options, follow-up schedule and international patient support.
Read More: Best cities in Vietnam for Medical Tourism
What Are the Benefits of Cataract Surgery?
For suitable patients, cataract surgery can restore clearer vision by replacing the cloudy natural lens with an artificial IOL. The National Eye Institute reports that around 9 out of 10 people see better after cataract surgery, although vision may initially be blurred while the eye heals.
The choice of IOL can also allow treatment to address certain refractive needs at the same time as cataract removal. For example, Toric IOLs may be used for certain patients with astigmatism, while multifocal IOLs may be considered for selected patients who want a broader range of vision.
However, not every IOL is appropriate for every patient. The lens should be selected based on the ophthalmologist’s assessment and the patient’s individual visual needs.
What Are the Risks of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is generally considered a safe and effective procedure, but like any surgery, it carries potential risks.
Possible complications include infection, inflammation, bleeding, changes in eye pressure, retinal detachment and vision problems. Some patients may also develop posterior capsule opacification, sometimes referred to as a secondary cataract, which can be treated with a laser procedure.
Patients should therefore have a comprehensive eye examination and discuss the expected benefits, limitations and potential risks with a qualified ophthalmologist before treatment.
For international patients, the quality of the entire medical journey also matters. Transportation, communication, medication instructions and post-operative follow-up can become more challenging when recovering in a foreign country.
This is where ZensiaCare – Your Trusted Medical Concierge in Vietnam can support international patients.
How ZensiaCare Supports International Patients with Cataract Surgery in Vietnam
ZensiaCare is Vietnam’s first dedicated medical concierge service for international patients, helping international patients coordinate cataract surgery with trusted healthcare providers. Depending on the selected provider, the service can include qualified Phaco surgeons, reputable IOL brands such as Alcon, Johnson & Johnson and ZEISS, and appropriate pre-operative eye examinations.
Phaco is one of the most widely performed cataract surgery techniques worldwide, with success rates reported at over 99% in suitable cases.
ZensiaCare can also help patients understand monofocal and multifocal IOL options, while the final lens selection remains with the ophthalmologist.
A typical journey may involve one eye at a time, usually 1–2 weeks apart, with same-day discharge and follow-up appointments around one day and one week after surgery. When medically appropriate, ZensiaCare can coordinate treatment for both eyes within the same trip. Our Case Managers also arrange airport transfers, transportation, medical interpretation, medical document translation and follow-up coordination.
Cataract surgery is generally safe and effective, but some patients may require additional post-operative care. Patients should follow their ophthalmologist’s instructions, including not driving for at least 24 hours after surgery, or longer if advised.
In addition to Eye Care, ZensiaCare also supports international patients with Dental Care, IVF & Fertility, Cosmetic Surgery and Comprehensive Health Check-ups, helping coordinate different healthcare needs in Vietnam.
ZensiaCare works for the patient, not for the hospital or clinic. We coordinate the practical healthcare journey, while diagnosis, IOL selection and medical decisions remain with qualified ophthalmologists.
Let ZensiaCare help coordinate your healthcare journey.
Contact ZensiaCare to discuss your needs, explore suitable care options and get started with your cataract surgery journey in Vietnam.
Written by Dr. Quy Nguyen
FAQ
Is cataract surgery in Vietnam suitable for international patients?
Yes. International patients can access cataract assessment and surgery at specialist eye-care providers in major Vietnamese cities.
What is the difference between Phaco and traditional cataract surgery?
Phaco uses ultrasound energy to break up and remove the cloudy lens through a small incision, while traditional techniques use a larger surgical opening.
Does the type of IOL affect the cost?
Yes. Premium options such as Toric and multifocal IOLs generally cost more than standard monofocal lenses.
Can I choose my own IOL?
Patients can discuss available IOL options with their ophthalmologist, but the final choice should be based on eye measurements, clinical suitability and visual needs.
What should international patients arrange before travelling?
Patients should arrange an eye examination, treatment plan, accommodation, transportation and a suitable period for post-operative follow-up before returning home.
