Cataracts happen when the eyes’ natural lens becomes cloudy or opaque. It is caused by aging, genetics, lifestyle, or prolonged exposure to UV rays. There are many answers to how to treat cataract, which can range from traditional to laser-assisted eye surgery. Meanwhile, most post-operation procedures are mainly done using laser eye surgery. 

Cataract is preventable with the right lifestyle and advice from your eye doctor. Read this article to discover fast and painless cataract treatment options. You will also find out the average cataract laser price in the Philippines.

Phacoemulsification: Traditional Cataract Surgery

Cataracts cause the eyes’ natural lens to cloud and cause problems with your vision. A  phacoemulsification is the most modern way of treating them. It is generally a quick and painless process.

You will be given numbing eye drops, then the surgeon will make a small incision on your cornea. This is where a very thin ultrasound probe will be inserted. The probe breaks down the cataract and suctions the remnants. The new, clear intraocular lens (IOL) is then placed into the space previously occupied by the natural lens. 

How to Treat Cataract Using Laser Eye Surgery

1. Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, or FLACS, is a bladeless laser eye surgery. It offers more calculated precision, painless operation, and safety from potential errors.

First, your ophthalmologist uses a camera or ultrasound device to map out the surface of the eye. This information is sent to a computer, which programs the laser using accurate locations and depths of incision. The laser can also break down and suck out the deteriorated lens by producing ultrasound energy. Once the remnants are gone, the IOL lens is inserted and clear vision is restored. FLACS does not need stitches.

Laser treatment is also considered highly accurate and gentle. Cataract laser price in the Philippines typically ranges from Php 30,000 to Php 90,000 per eye. In 2025, PhilHealth announced that they now offer improved cataract coverage for adult and child patients, which can reach up to Php 43,800 per eye for standard lens as well as Php 66,900 per eye for multifocal lens. 

2. YAG Capsulotomy

How to treat cataract when your artificial lens gets cloudy again in the future? YAG Capsulotomy (Yttrium-Aluminum-Garnet) uses lasers to clear the IOL lens sometime after cataract surgery. It is a quick, painless, and completely blade-free procedure that restores clarity and sharpness in your vision. 

Professional eye clinics inside and outside Metro Manila usually offer YAG Capsulotomy as part of their laser eye surgery services. The procedure can be as quick as 5 minutes, depending on how severe your clouding is. First, you will be given anesthetic eye drops, then a YAG laser is positioned to make a small opening. The laser breaks down and ablates the cloudiness in your IOL lens and clears everything out. 

Patients can resume normal day-to-day activities right after the procedure, as long as their vision is completely clear once more. However, you must use the prescribed eye drops every day. This speeds up the healing process and helps maintain the moisture in your eyes.

Cataract Laser Price in the Philippines

Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS) cataract price in the Philippines ranges from Php 30,000 to 90,000 in reputable eye clinics. Rates are also affected by the severity of your cataract and complexity of the surgery.

Meanwhile, YAG Capsulotomy cataract laser costs range around Php 6,500 (without doctor’s professional fee) to Php 17,000. It is advisable to inquire with your healthcare provider or ophthalmologist to schedule a comprehensive diagnostic appointment first before you proceed.

If you’re looking into more affordable cataract prices in the Philippines, consider ophthalmologists located outside Metro Manila. For instance, a trusted eye clinic in Laguna can offer YAG Capsulotomy for reasonable prices while making other sophisticated eye care services more accessible to residents in neighboring provinces.

Whether it’s your first time getting a cataract removed, or a succeeding session to keep your IOL lens clear and sharp, it is crucial to know your options for cataract surgery. Not only can an accurate, pain-free cataract removal give you better relief and fast recovery, but it also allows you to invest in long-term, quality eye care. Talk with your eye doctor to get an accurate, personalized plan on how to treat cataract. 

ALSO READ: A Look Into Laser Eye Surgery Cost in the Philippines

Get expert, sophisticated eye care at AsPac Eye Laser and Surgicenter in Laguna. Led by top-rated, licensed ophthalmologists, our clinic delivers reliable, lifetime eye care. Our laser eye procedure, such as LASIK eye surgery in the Philippines, uses advanced diagnostic and surgical lasers for comfortable, quick processes. Book your appointment today or connect with us for more inquiries.