What is Phakic ICL surgery?

How much does Phakic surgery cost? Phakic ICL cost at eye hospitals today
Phakic ICL is a refractive error correction method that involves implanting a special intraocular lens inside the eye, positioned between the iris and the natural crystalline lens. This lens helps light focus precisely on the retina, thereby improving vision for people with myopia or astigmatism.
Unlike LASIK or other laser eye surgeries, Phakic ICL does not cause damage to the cornea because it does not require cutting or reshaping the corneal surface. Therefore, this method is often recommended for cases such as:
- High myopia from -3 to -20 diopters
- Can be combined with astigmatism from 1 to 4 diopters
- Thin corneas or individuals who are not suitable for laser surgery
- People who want to preserve the natural structure of the cornea
In addition, the ICL lens is made from Collamer, a biocompatible material that allows the eye to adapt well while providing stable visual quality.
Phakic ICL surgical procedure

Phakic ICL surgical procedure
Phakic ICL surgery is typically quick and minimally invasive. The average surgical time is only about 20 – 30 minutes per eye. On the day of surgery, anesthetic eye drops are applied to ensure the patient does not feel pain. The surgeon then creates a very small incision at the edge of the cornea to insert the lens into the eye.
The Phakic lens is folded during insertion, then unfolded and precisely positioned between the iris and the natural crystalline lens. Once the lens is properly placed, the surgeon cleans the protective solution and completes the procedure.
Because the incision is very small, the wound usually heals naturally without stitches, allowing for a faster recovery process.
Eligibility for Phakic surgery
Not everyone with myopia is suitable for Phakic surgery. Doctors need to evaluate several factors before recommending the procedure.
People who are suitable for this method are usually between 21 and about 45 years old, have had stable vision for at least one year, and do not have serious eye diseases.
Before surgery, patients will undergo several specialized examinations such as:
- Corneal topography
- Endothelial cell density measurement
- Anterior chamber depth measurement
- Retinal OCT imaging
- UBM ultrasound
These measurements help the doctor calculate the appropriate Phakic lens size and power for each eye, ensuring optimal visual outcomes after surgery.
How much does Phakic surgery cost?

How much does Phakic surgery cost?
Phakic ICL surgery is currently one of the most advanced refractive error correction methods, particularly suitable for people with high myopia or those who are not eligible for laser eye surgery. However, before choosing this method, many people are concerned about how much Phakic surgery costs and how the cost varies between hospitals.
In Vietnam, the cost of Phakic ICL surgery usually ranges from 80 to 120 million VND for both eyes, depending on the type of lens used, diagnostic equipment, the surgeon’s experience, and post-operative care services.
Below are reference prices in 2026 at several reputable eye hospitals and centers:
| Hospital / Center | Location | Advantages | Estimated Price 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ánh Sáng Eye Hospital | Ho Chi Minh City | A specialized center for refractive surgery with a high number of procedures each year. Thorough preoperative examinations including corneal mapping, anterior chamber depth measurement, and endothelial cell analysis. | 90 – 95 million VND |
| Vietnam – Russia International Eye Hospital | Hanoi | Doctors with experience trained in Russia and Europe. Modern diagnostic equipment helps optimize ICL sizing and power selection. | 100 – 120 million VND |
| Hai Yen Eye Care | Ho Chi Minh City | A center known for personalized treatment. Each patient receives individualized consultation based on corneal characteristics and refractive error. | 85 – 95 million VND |
| Saigon Eye Hospital System | Multiple provinces | A large hospital network with standardized procedures and a high number of surgeries annually, capable of handling complex cases. | 95 – 100 million VND |
| Viet An Eye Hospital Da Nang | Da Nang | A reputable ophthalmology center in Central Vietnam with synchronized diagnostic and surgical equipment. | 80 – 100 million VND |
In addition to the facilities listed above, several eye hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi also offer Phakic surgery with similar costs. Price differences usually depend on the type of ICL lens, surgeon experience, and advanced diagnostic equipment used before surgery.
Notes before and after Phakic surgery
To achieve the best results, patients should follow certain guidelines before and after the procedure.
Before surgery, patients should stop wearing soft contact lenses for about 2 weeks, or longer if using Ortho-K lenses. Eye makeup and products that may irritate the eyes should also be avoided.
After surgery, patients should avoid getting water into the eyes and refrain from strenuous activities during the first few days. Using prescribed eye drops and attending scheduled follow-up visits are essential for monitoring recovery.
Safety of Phakic surgery
Phakic ICL has been used in ophthalmology for more than two decades and is now widely performed worldwide. Millions of procedures have been completed with a high level of patient satisfaction. One important advantage of this method is that the lens can be removed by a doctor if necessary, allowing flexibility for future treatment adjustments.
However, like any medical procedure, Phakic surgery may still carry some rare risks such as temporary increased intraocular pressure, glare, or the need to reposition the lens. Therefore, undergoing comprehensive eye examinations and choosing a reputable eye care facility are important factors in ensuring long-term treatment effectiveness.






