Cataract surgery is widely available in Vietnam through specialist eye hospitals, private hospitals and ophthalmology departments in major cities. For residents, expatriates and medical travellers, the main decisions usually involve choosing an ophthalmologist, understanding the type of intraocular lens being offered and confirming exactly what the quoted price includes.
Current published prices show that cataract surgery costs can vary considerably depending on the surgical technique and lens. A June 2026 international service price list from Vinmec Da Nang, for example, lists cataract procedures from VND 12,960,000 to VND 60,000,000, depending on the procedure and intraocular lens category. These figures are examples rather than a national price range or guaranteed quotation.
This guide explains how cataract surgery works in Vietnam, what affects the cost, where treatment is available, how to compare lens options and what to expect during recovery.
What is a cataract?
A cataract develops when the natural lens inside the eye becomes cloudy. Cataracts become more common with age, although they can also be associated with eye injuries, certain medical conditions, previous eye surgery and some medications.
Possible symptoms include:
- Blurred or cloudy vision.
- Difficulty seeing at night.
- Increased glare from lights.
- Halos around lights.
- Colours appearing less vivid.
- Frequent changes in glasses prescription.
- Reduced contrast or clarity.
Cataracts usually develop gradually. Surgery is generally considered when the cataract interferes sufficiently with vision and daily activities, rather than simply because a cataract has been detected.
An ophthalmologist should also determine whether reduced vision is actually caused by the cataract. Conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, corneal disease and diabetic retinopathy can also affect vision and may influence the expected result of surgery.
How cataract surgery works
During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens, commonly abbreviated to IOL.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology describes cataract surgery as typically being performed as an outpatient procedure. The patient normally returns home without an overnight hospital stay unless there is another medical reason for admission.
Phacoemulsification
Phacoemulsification, often shortened to phaco, is a commonly used technique. Through a small incision, the surgeon uses ultrasound energy to break the cloudy lens into small fragments and removes them from the eye. An artificial lens is then inserted.
FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City publishes phacoemulsification among its cataract treatment services.
Laser-assisted cataract surgery
Some facilities also offer femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. The laser can perform selected stages that would otherwise be completed manually during conventional cataract surgery.
FV Hospital publishes femtosecond laser-assisted cataract treatment as part of its ophthalmology services, while Japan International Eye Hospital in Hanoi also lists laser cataract surgery alongside conventional phaco surgery.
Laser assistance does not automatically mean that it is the appropriate option for every patient. Ask the ophthalmologist what clinical advantage is expected in your individual case and whether the additional cost is justified.
How much does cataract surgery cost in Vietnam?
There is no single cataract surgery price across Vietnam. Cost depends heavily on the lens, surgical method, hospital and what is included in the package.
Vinmec Da Nang's June 2026 international service price list provides a useful current example:
| Published procedure | Published international price |
|---|---|
| Extracapsular cataract surgery | VND 12,960,000 |
| Cataract procedure | VND 24,000,000 |
| Phaco surgery with toric lens for astigmatism | VND 28,800,000 |
| Phaco surgery with multifocal ReSTOR lens | VND 48,000,000 |
| Phaco surgery with multifocal lens for astigmatism | VND 60,000,000 |
These are published prices from one hospital and should not be treated as national averages. Another provider may use different lens brands, packages or terminology.
Before comparing quotations, ask whether the price applies to one eye or both eyes and whether it includes the lens, surgeon, operating room, diagnostic testing, medication and follow-up.
Why does the price vary so much?
The intraocular lens is one of the biggest factors affecting the final cost.
Monofocal lenses
A monofocal IOL normally provides a single main focusing distance. Many patients choose distance vision and continue using reading glasses for close work.
Monofocal lenses are generally among the less expensive options, although the exact price varies by manufacturer and hospital.
Toric lenses
Toric intraocular lenses are designed to correct certain levels of corneal astigmatism as part of cataract surgery.
They usually cost more than standard monofocal lenses. Accurate preoperative measurements are particularly important because the lens must be correctly positioned to achieve the intended astigmatism correction.
Multifocal and presbyopia-correcting lenses
Multifocal and other presbyopia-correcting lenses are designed to reduce dependence on glasses across more than one viewing distance.
They generally cost more than monofocal lenses and are not suitable for every eye. Some patients can experience visual effects such as halos or glare, particularly at night.
The appropriate lens depends on your eye health, visual priorities, occupation, driving habits and tolerance for possible optical effects. A premium lens should not be chosen solely because it is more expensive.
What should be included in the quotation?
Ask for an itemised written quotation before surgery.
Confirm whether it includes:
- Ophthalmology consultation.
- Preoperative eye measurements.
- Biometry for calculating lens power.
- The intraocular lens itself.
- Surgeon fees.
- Operating room charges.
- Anaesthesia or sedation when required.
- Medication used during surgery.
- Postoperative eye drops.
- Protective eye shield or glasses.
- Follow-up examinations.
- Additional tests required because of another eye condition.
A cheaper headline price may exclude services that another hospital includes in its package.
Availability and fees can change, so request a current quotation directly from the hospital rather than relying on an older online price page.
Where can you have cataract surgery in Vietnam?
Cataract surgery is available in several Vietnamese cities. The largest range of specialist private eye care is concentrated in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with additional options in cities such as Da Nang.
The providers below are examples of facilities that currently publish cataract services. Their inclusion is not a ranking or endorsement.
FV Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City
FV Hospital has an Ophthalmology and Refractive Surgery Department that publishes treatment for cataracts alongside glaucoma, retinal conditions and other eye diseases.
The hospital describes both conventional cataract microsurgery using phacoemulsification and laser-assisted cataract surgery among its services.
Japan International Eye Hospital in Hanoi
Japan International Eye Hospital is a specialist ophthalmology hospital in Hanoi. It currently lists both phaco and laser cataract surgery among its services.
The hospital also publishes information about multiple intraocular lens categories. Patients should request an up-to-date individual quotation because previously published price pages may not reflect current 2026 fees.
Vinmec
Vinmec provides ophthalmology services through parts of its hospital network. Vinmec Times City in Hanoi includes the Vinmec-Alina Eye Center, while Vinmec Da Nang publishes cataract surgery in its June 2026 international service price list.
Services can differ between hospitals within the same healthcare group, so confirm that cataract surgery and the required lens are available at the specific location you plan to use.
If English-language communication is important, see How to Choose an English-Speaking Clinic in Vietnam.
How to choose a cataract surgeon and clinic
Do not select a clinic based only on price or advertising about a particular lens.
Ask for the full name of the ophthalmologist who will perform the operation and clarify their experience with cataract surgery and the type of IOL being proposed.
Useful questions include:
- Who will perform the surgery?
- What ophthalmology qualifications does the surgeon hold?
- Which surgical method do you recommend for my eye and why?
- Which exact intraocular lens is being recommended?
- Why is that lens suitable for me?
- What visual result are you targeting?
- Will I still need glasses after surgery?
- What happens if there is a complication?
- Who provides postoperative care?
- How many follow-up visits are expected?
A provider's website can confirm what it publishes about its doctors and services, but it does not independently establish that one provider is better than another.
What happens before surgery?
A detailed eye examination is required before cataract surgery.
The ophthalmologist may assess:
- Visual acuity.
- Cataract severity.
- Corneal health.
- Eye pressure.
- Retina and optic nerve health.
- Astigmatism.
- Eye dimensions required to calculate IOL power.
Tell the ophthalmologist about previous eye surgery, glaucoma, retinal disease, diabetes and any previous eye injuries.
You should also provide a complete medication list. Do not stop blood thinners, diabetes medicines or any other prescribed treatment unless the relevant clinician specifically instructs you to do so.
For broader appointment preparation, see What to Check Before a Medical Appointment in Vietnam.
What happens on the day of surgery?
Cataract surgery is usually an outpatient procedure. The eye is numbed, commonly with local anaesthetic drops or another local anaesthetic technique, and sedation may sometimes be used.
The cloudy lens is removed and the selected artificial lens is implanted.
You normally need someone to accompany you or arrange safe transport after surgery because you should not expect to drive yourself home immediately afterwards.
Follow the hospital's instructions regarding fasting, medications and arrival time. Requirements can differ according to the anaesthesia plan and your medical history.
Cataract surgery recovery
Recovery is gradual, although many people notice improved vision relatively quickly.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that most people see better within a few days after cataract surgery. Vision may initially remain blurred while the eye heals, and it can take several weeks to stabilise fully.
The first few days
Temporary symptoms can include:
- Blurred vision.
- Mild irritation.
- Watery eyes.
- Light sensitivity.
- A mild gritty sensation.
Use prescribed eye drops exactly as instructed and attend the scheduled postoperative examinations.
Protecting the eye
Your surgeon may recommend an eye shield while sleeping during early recovery. Avoid rubbing the operated eye.
Follow individual instructions about washing your face, showering, swimming, exercise, lifting and returning to work.
Driving
Do not drive until your ophthalmologist confirms that your vision is adequate and it is safe to do so.
Vision can continue changing during the initial healing period, and a new glasses prescription may not be finalised immediately.
When can you fly after cataract surgery?
This is an important question for medical travellers.
There is no single travel schedule appropriate for every patient. Uncomplicated cataract surgery may allow relatively early travel, but your ophthalmologist should determine when flying is reasonable based on the procedure and postoperative examination.
Do not book a departure that prevents you from attending the required early follow-up appointments.
Before leaving Vietnam, ask for:
- An operative report.
- The exact intraocular lens model and power.
- A medication list.
- Postoperative examination results.
- Written follow-up instructions.
- Contact information for the surgical team.
If you will continue care in another country, request records in English when available.
Risks of cataract surgery
Cataract surgery is commonly performed, but no eye operation is risk-free.
Potential complications include:
- Infection.
- Inflammation.
- Bleeding.
- Retinal detachment.
- Increased eye pressure.
- Swelling of the retina or cornea.
- Displacement of the intraocular lens.
- Persistent visual problems.
- Posterior capsule opacification after surgery.
Posterior capsule opacification can cause vision to become cloudy again months or years after cataract surgery. It is not a new cataract and can often be treated with a laser capsulotomy when appropriate.
Seek urgent ophthalmic or emergency medical care after surgery if you develop severe eye pain, rapidly worsening vision, marked redness, significant discharge, a sudden increase in flashes or floaters, or a dark curtain or shadow across your vision.
Cataract surgery and insurance
Whether cataract surgery is covered depends on your insurance policy and medical indication.
Unlike elective refractive surgery such as LASIK, cataract surgery may be considered medically necessary when the cataract significantly affects vision. However, coverage for private hospitals, premium lenses or laser-assisted procedures varies considerably.
Before surgery, ask the insurer:
- Is cataract surgery covered?
- Is the selected hospital eligible?
- Is pre-authorisation required?
- Is the surgeon covered?
- Which intraocular lenses are covered?
- Will the insurer pay for a premium lens?
- Is direct billing available?
- What amount must I pay myself?
A policy may cover a standard monofocal lens while requiring the patient to pay the additional cost of a toric or multifocal lens.
How to compare cataract surgery options in Vietnam
A useful comparison should look beyond the package price.
Compare the following for each provider:
- Surgeon and ophthalmology qualifications.
- Surgical technique.
- Exact IOL manufacturer and model.
- Whether the lens is monofocal, toric or presbyopia-correcting.
- Target vision after surgery.
- Preoperative diagnostic testing.
- Total price and exclusions.
- Postoperative medication.
- Number of follow-up visits.
- Arrangements for complications.
The most expensive lens is not automatically the best lens for your eyes. The goal should be an appropriate surgical plan based on your eye health and visual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
The answers below cover common practical questions about cataract surgery in Vietnam. Individual treatment decisions, lens selection and recovery instructions should be discussed directly with an ophthalmologist.
How much does cataract surgery cost in Vietnam?
Costs vary significantly according to the hospital, surgical method and intraocular lens. Vinmec Da Nang's June 2026 international price list publishes cataract procedures from VND 12,960,000 to VND 60,000,000, but patients should request a current individual quotation.
Where can I have cataract surgery in Vietnam?
Cataract surgery is available at specialist eye hospitals and ophthalmology departments in major cities including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. Examples that currently publish cataract services include FV Hospital, Japan International Eye Hospital and parts of the Vinmec hospital network.
Which lens is best for cataract surgery?
There is no single best lens for every patient. Monofocal, toric and presbyopia-correcting lenses address different visual needs, and the appropriate choice depends on eye health, astigmatism, lifestyle, visual priorities and tolerance for possible optical effects.
How long does cataract surgery recovery take?
Many patients notice improved vision within several days, but vision can continue changing while the eye heals. The American Academy of Ophthalmology notes that stabilisation can take several weeks, so follow-up with the treating ophthalmologist is important.
Can foreigners have cataract surgery in Vietnam?
Yes. Private hospitals and specialist eye facilities in Vietnam treat international patients, although English-language support, prices and insurance arrangements vary. Confirm the specific surgeon, language support and full quotation directly with the provider.
Does insurance cover cataract surgery in Vietnam?
Some health insurance policies may cover medically necessary cataract surgery, but coverage depends on the hospital, policy and lens selected. Premium lenses and additional technologies may require an extra patient payment even when standard cataract surgery is covered.
Conclusion
Cataract surgery in Vietnam is available through specialist eye hospitals and private hospital ophthalmology departments in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and other major cities. Current 2026 published international prices at Vinmec Da Nang range from VND 12,960,000 for an extracapsular cataract procedure to VND 60,000,000 for phaco surgery with a multifocal lens for astigmatism.
Price alone does not determine which option is appropriate. Before booking, arrange a complete ophthalmology assessment and ask for the exact lens model, surgical method, total cost and postoperative schedule in writing. International patients should also plan enough time in Vietnam for early follow-up before travelling onward.
Sources
Writer
Tan Nguyen
Medical writer for Vietnam Clinic. MD, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City.
