San Donato Hospital
Cataract treatment cost in Italy typically includes a consultation with an ophthalmologist ranging from $100 to $200 and primary procedures like cataract surgery (one eye) which runs from $2,200 to $3,200. Total expenses depend on the lens type, surgical technique, and clinic prestige. Patients often find 30-50% savings compared to private US healthcare. Milan, Rome, and Florence are the primary hubs for advanced ophthalmic care.
Typical Cataract Treatment Costs in Italy
Bookimed Expert Insight: Patients seeking immediate treatment should prioritize private centers in Milan or Rome to avoid long wait times. San Donato Hospital in Milan is a top-tier choice for high-volume surgical care, holding Newsweek’s World's Best Hospitals recognition. For complex cases needing advanced diagnostics, Ospedale San Carlo di Nancy in Rome offers 5-star rated facilities. JCI-accredited centers like Maria Cecilia Hospital provide excellent value for international patients traveling via Bologna.
| Italy | Turkey | Austria | |
| Vitrectomy | from $4,000 | from $2,300 | from $4,500 |
| Femtosecond laser | from $2,000 | from $821 | from $3,200 |
| Cataract surgery with IOL replacement | from $1,500 | from $1,500 | from $2,500 |
| Cataract surgery (one eye) | from $2,200 | from $1,200 | from $1,800 |
| Cataract surgery (both eyes) | from $3,000 | from $1,300 | from $3,500 |
No hidden fees – just official clinic prices. Pay at the clinic for Cataract treatment and use a flexible installment plan if needed.
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Cataract surgery in Italy is not covered by the National Health Service (SSN) for medical tourists. The SSN serves Italian citizens and legal residents exclusively. Foreigners on tourist visas must use private clinics or pay full out-of-pocket costs at public hospitals.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While public hospitals like Ospedale San Carlo di Nancy are accredited by the Italian Health Service, they remain focused on the local population. International patients typically see shorter wait times by choosing multi-specialty centers like Maria Cecilia Hospital. These JCI-accredited facilities offer streamlined pathways that bypass the 3-to-6 month public waiting lists. Choosing a private center in a major hub like Bologna or Rome ensures access to English-speaking staff and immediate diagnostic imaging.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that trying to access the public system as a visitor is not worth the hassle. They emphasize that paying privately in cities like Milan is the most reliable way to secure surgery without residency paperwork.
Patients in Italy can choose their intraocular lens (IOL) type based on clinical suitability and provider type. Public hospitals typically provide standard monofocal lenses through the national health system. Private clinics offer advanced options including multifocal, EDOF, and toric lenses for personalized vision correction.
Bookimed Expert Insight: While many search for specific lenses, the choice often depends on the hospital's research focus. For instance, San Donato Hospital in Milan and Maria Cecilia Hospital in Bologna hold IRCCS or JCI accreditations, meaning they participate in clinical research. These research-heavy institutions often provide access to the latest optical technologies earlier than general local hospitals. If you want the most recent EDOF or multifocal technology, look for these accredited research centers.
Patient Consensus: Patients note that while public surgeons provide reliable monofocal lenses, those desiring better night vision or less reliance on glasses should opt for private consultations. It is helpful to bring English specification sheets to discussions to ensure the lens model matches your lifestyle goals.