What Is the Cataract Surgery Cost in Vietnam?
Cataract surgery cost in Vietnam is gaining global attention in 2025, as more international patients look for high-quality yet budget-friendly alternatives to expensive procedures in their home countries. As healthcare costs soar across Western nations, Vietnam is positioning itself as a leading destination for affordable, efficient, and expert-led cataract treatments. But what makes Vietnam so attractive to medical tourists—and is it worth traveling for your vision care?
According to recent health tourism data, the cost of cataract surgery in Vietnam can be up to 70% lower than in the US, UK, or Australia. While patients in the West may pay between $3,000 to $5,000 per eye, in Vietnam, the average price ranges from $600 to $1,200, depending on the hospital, technology, and lens type. This significant price advantage doesn’t come at the expense of quality—many Vietnamese hospitals now use the same advanced equipment as Western clinics, including SMART lenses and bladeless technology similar to LASIK.
Why Is Cataract Surgery More Affordable in Vietnam?
What Factors Influence the Cost of Cataract Surgery?
The cost of cataract surgery in Vietnam is influenced by several key factors:
- Lower labor and operational costs: Skilled surgeons and staff are available at a fraction of the cost compared to their counterparts in Western countries.
- Government support for medical tourism: Vietnam has actively promoted itself as a healthcare hub, encouraging international collaboration and investing in cutting-edge equipment.
- Lower cost of living: Infrastructure, medications, and post-op care are all more affordable, reducing the overall expense.
Importantly, affordability does not compromise quality. Many Vietnamese hospitals are JCI-accredited (Joint Commission International), ensuring they meet global standards in patient care, sterilization, and surgery protocols.
How Does the Quality of Cataract Surgery in Vietnam Compare?
Are Vietnamese Eye Clinics Trustworthy?
Vietnamese hospitals have made remarkable strides in ophthalmology. Leading clinics in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang now offer state-of-the-art procedures including Femto cataract surgery, multifocal SMART lenses, and toric lens implants for astigmatism. Some centers even combine cataract surgery with LASIK-style precision for enhanced outcomes.
Top-tier ophthalmologists in Vietnam often train abroad—in the US, Europe, or Japan—and bring their expertise home. This ensures that the quality of cataract surgery is not just comparable but sometimes even more personalized than what’s available in larger medical systems.
International patients frequently report high satisfaction due to:
- Short waiting times (appointments within a few days)
- English-speaking staff and translators
- Personalized aftercare packages
- Options to combine surgery with tourism for a holistic experience
Why Is Medical Tourism for Cataract Surgery on the Rise?
Is Vietnam a Safe Destination for Medical Travel?
Yes—Vietnam is not only safe but also extremely welcoming for medical tourists. With an increasing number of accredited hospitals and support services, Vietnam ranks among Asia’s top 5 medical tourism destinations in 2025. This is especially appealing for retirees and older patients looking for a safe, relaxing, and affordable healthcare option.
Medical tourism packages often include:
- Airport pickup and hotel accommodation
- Pre-surgery consultation and diagnostics
- Post-operative check-ups
- Sightseeing or wellness retreats during recovery
This trend is part of a larger shift in global healthcare—patients are becoming more informed, budget-conscious, and open to traveling for specialized care.
What Types of Cataract Lenses Are Available in Vietnam?
Should You Choose Monofocal or SMART Lenses?
Vietnamese eye centers offer a wide selection of intraocular lenses (IOLs), including:
- Monofocal lenses – Basic option covered in standard packages
- Multifocal lenses – Help see both near and far without glasses
- SMART lenses – Advanced lenses customized for light adaptation and clearer vision
- Toric lenses – Ideal for patients with astigmatism
While monofocal lenses are more affordable, SMART lenses are increasingly chosen by patients wanting to minimize dependence on glasses post-surgery. Though slightly more expensive (costing $300–$600 more per eye), SMART lenses deliver excellent results and long-term satisfaction.
Who Should Consider Cataract Surgery in Vietnam?
Is Traveling for Cataract Surgery Right for You?
If you:
- Are on a budget or uninsured
- Face long waiting lists in your home country
- Want access to the latest technology like SMART lenses or laser-assisted surgery
- Value a high standard of care in a peaceful recovery environment
…then Vietnam may be the right option for your vision treatment in 2025.
It’s particularly appealing to:
- Seniors and retirees from Europe and North America
- Expatriates living in Southeast Asia
- Patients needing surgery for both eyes, looking to reduce total treatment cost
Before traveling, consult a medical tourism advisor or the hospital directly to receive:
- Personalized cost breakdowns
- Information about travel documents and insurance
- Sample treatment timelines
Should You Travel to Vietnam for Cataract Surgery?
Vietnam is no longer just a travel destination—it’s quickly becoming a go-to country for affordable and high-quality healthcare. With rising demand for affordable cataract surgery, excellent surgeons, and internationally accredited hospitals, Vietnam offers an unbeatable combination of cost, care, and comfort.
In 2025, the country continues to stand out as a leader in medical tourism, especially for ophthalmology. If you’re considering options to improve your vision while saving money, Vietnam might just be your perfect choice.
