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Ophthalmology

Cataract Surgery

白内障手术

Duration

1 day (outpatient)

Recovery

1-3 days for basic activities, 4-6 weeks for full recovery

$

Savings

~69% vs US

Price Comparison
China$800 - $2,500
$1,650
United States$3,500 - $7,000
$5,250
Save approximately 69%

Average savings compared to US prices

About This Treatment

Cataract surgery in China utilizes the latest phacoemulsification techniques and premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) including multifocal, toric, and extended depth-of-focus lenses. China's top eye hospitals perform hundreds of thousands of cataract surgeries annually with excellent outcomes. The cost is 60-75% lower than in the US, with options for femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) at leading centers.

Procedure Steps
1

Pre-Operative Assessment & IOL Selection

Comprehensive eye examination with biometry measurements to calculate the ideal IOL power. The surgeon discusses lens options (monofocal, multifocal, toric for astigmatism) based on your lifestyle and visual needs.

Duration: 1-2 hours
2

Phacoemulsification Surgery

Under local anesthesia, a micro-incision (2-3mm) is made. The clouded natural lens is broken up using ultrasound (phacoemulsification) and removed. A foldable artificial IOL is inserted through the same incision and positioned in the lens capsule.

Duration: 15-30 minutes per eye
3

Post-Operative Care & Follow-Up

Vision typically improves within 24-48 hours. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are prescribed for 4-6 weeks. Follow-up visits check visual acuity, IOL positioning, and healing progress.

Duration: 4-6 weeks follow-up period
Benefits
  • 60-75% cost savings compared to the US
  • Access to premium IOL brands (Alcon, Johnson & Johnson, Zeiss) at lower cost
  • Experienced surgeons performing high volumes of procedures
  • Option for femtosecond laser-assisted surgery at leading centers
Considerations
  • Temporary blurry vision and light sensitivity during recovery
  • Rare risk of posterior capsule opacification (easily treated with YAG laser)
  • Infection risk — strict post-operative hygiene is essential
  • Second eye typically done 1-2 weeks after the first

Prices shown are approximate ranges for reference only. Actual costs vary by hospital, complexity, and individual patient needs. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical decisions.