Has anyone had cataract surgery, especially in the Philippines? Could you share how the cataract removal and vision…

I got multifocal lenses in both eyes a year ago. I had my pre- and post-surgery exams at Asian Eye Hospital in Biñan. Now I get by without glasses in almost every situation (20/20 in both eyes), except I need a little help when reading up close. Neither surgery really hurt; the harder part was actually mental, having to stay awake while someone touches your eye.

I've been curious about cataract surgery in the Philippines too. The price is less than half, so I'm definitely getting it done there. I also know the doctors are as skilled as anywhere in the world…

I had both eyes done at St Luke’s BGC in Manila with Dr Roque. I don't think there's any better option anywhere. The cost was $5,500 and my US insurance reimbursed about 80%. They used a laser to remove the existing lens. When I had eye exams in the US after the surgery, both optometrists said it was the best surgery they had ever seen. I'm glad I chose this doctor at St Luke’s!

I just finished at Bumrungrad in Bangkok. Ask me again next week - it's expensive if you don't have insurance. It's the best hospital. The Philippines has too many routine mistakes at every step. I'm a gambler, so I take risks, but for any major medical care I choose Thailand. My first cataract surgery, done in the US, wasn't successful. This doctor fixed that eye, and the recent surgery is still waiting on recovery. It looks okay, though.