Cataract Surgery Outside of the U.S.

The United States is well known for its world-leading healthcare. But have you ever wondered about cataract surgery outside of the U.S.? So-called “medical tourism” is a booming industry—especially for those seeking a cheaper alternative if they don’t have adequate Medicare or insurance coverage. 

While you can, indeed, find less expensive cataract surgery options outside of the U.S., it’s essential to understand some key points before you commit.

Thinking of Cataract Surgery Outside of the U.S.? Make Sure You Do Your Homework…

• Where can I get cataract surgery outside of the U.S.?
• Pros and cons of cataract surgery outside of the U.S.
• Other considerations

Where can I get cataract surgery outside of the U.S.? 

You can get cataract surgery virtually anywhere in the world. However, the level of care patients receive dramatically differs depending on the country—and even the region, hospital, or surgeon—you choose. Any quick online search will bring up countries that are defined as being the best, including:

• India
• The UAE
• Spain
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Mexico
• South Korea
• Jordan

Pros and cons of cataract surgery outside of the U.S.

By far the biggest reason that people seek cataract surgery in a different country is down to the cost. Even if you’re covered by Medicare, if you undergo a procedure in the U.S. you’ll only be entitled to a basic intraocular lens (IOL). This provides you with focus at either a near or far distance, requiring you to wear eyeglasses (or contacts) for the other.

Many other, more advanced, IOLs exist. These include ones that provide focused distance near and far (and even mid, for some of the most cutting-edge lenses), ones that correct astigmatism, that use the muscles of the eye to mimic natural focusing, and there are even IOLs that can have the prescription altered while in-situ.

These advanced, or premium, lenses can only be utilized if you undergo what’s known as laser-assisted cataract surgery, rather than the less-expensive traditional cataract surgery. However, Medicare only covers the cost of the traditional process and a regular, mono-focus IOL. If you choose anything else, then you’ll have to pay the difference.

The pros of undergoing cataract surgery outside of the U.S. are:

• It could cost you less.
• You could combine it with a vacation.

The cons:

• It may not cost less—especially if you can get part or all the procedure in the U.S. covered by Medicare/insurance.
• Healthcare standards differ dramatically in different countries. 
• Once you’ve left the country the surgeon won’t be able to follow up on any post-op complications that may occur.
• Qualifications and accreditations may be of a different standard to the U.S.

Other considerations

In addition to what’s mentioned above, language barriers and/or cultural differences can have a significant impact. It’s also fairly obvious when looking at the country list above that some of these locations aren’t the safest destinations.

Cost is probably the most significant factor of medical tourism and the main drive behind its popularity. However, it’s vital to ensure the level and quality of the procedure itself and the pre-and post-care you’ll receive. You should also consider where you’re going to seek help should, for example, you return home and experience a complication, such as a dislocated lens or posterior capsule opacification (PCO). Both are common issues that can occur weeks, months, or even years after cataract surgery.

Ready to Commit to Home-Grown Cataract Expertise? Contact the Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic Today

Your eyesight isn’t just important—it’s a crucial part of your quality of life. That’s why it’s a given that you’re going to demand the very best expertise, something that you’re guaranteed at the Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic.

But don’t just take our word for it. We strongly advise our patients to carry out due diligence and research our lead clinician, Dr. Brent Bellotte. Not only is he a leading global expert, but he has and continues to play a pivotal role in the advancement of cataract surgery.

Don’t settle for anything less than the best. Head to https://www.moderncataractsurgery.com to find out more.