Top 16 Best Hospitals in Osaka for Cataract Surgery – Costs, Doctors & Travel Guide

Looking for the best cataract surgery in Osaka? Here are the top 16 hospitals offering expert surgeons, advanced technology, and excellent patient care to restore your vision quickly and safely.

Cataracts can blur your world, making everyday tasks harder and lowering your quality of life. In Osaka, world-class hospitals and skilled ophthalmologists provide modern, painless cataract surgery with fast recovery times. Whether you live locally or are traveling for treatment, you’ll find accredited facilities that combine cutting-edge technology with patient-focused care. In this guide, we’ll explore the best options, costs, and tips so you can choose with confidence.

Why Choose Osaka for Cataract Surgery?

Osaka is one of Japan’s top cities for high-quality cataract treatment. The city is home to modern hospitals with advanced equipment like femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery and premium intraocular lenses. Many clinics are accredited by the Japan Council for Quality Health Care (JCQHC), ensuring strict medical standards.

Compared to Western countries, costs are often lower while maintaining the same high standards. Surgeons in Osaka are highly trained, with many having studied or practiced internationally. The city also offers short waiting times, which is a big advantage for patients who need quick treatment.

For those traveling from abroad, Osaka is well connected through Kansai International Airport and offers plenty of comfortable, affordable hotels. It’s also known for its warm hospitality, making recovery easier. You can learn more about Japan’s healthcare quality at the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare website.

What to Look for in a Good Hospital for Cataract Surgery?

• Board-certified ophthalmologists with a strong record in cataract surgery
• Accreditation from JCQHC or international bodies like JCI
• Use of advanced phacoemulsification or laser-assisted surgery techniques
• Transparent and clear pricing or package rates for locals and foreigners
• Proven high success rates and low complication rates
• 24/7 patient care, including emergency services
• Cashless insurance settlement and multilingual staff for international patients

These points will help you choose a hospital that offers safe, reliable, and effective eye care. For detailed guidance on hospital quality, visit the Joint Commission International website.

Top Doctors in Osaka for Cataract Surgery

Dr. Hiroshi Takahashi – Osaka University Hospital

• Qualifications: MD, PhD in Ophthalmology
• Specialization: Advanced cataract surgery, multifocal lens implants
• Experience: 25+ years, over 10,000 surgeries performed
• Teleconsultation: Available for initial evaluation
• Booking: Through Osaka University Hospital

Dr. Keiko Nakamura – Nakanoshima Eye Clinic

• Qualifications: MD, Fellowship in Cornea and Cataract Surgery
• Specialization: Laser-assisted cataract surgery, premium lenses
• Experience: 18 years, high success rate in complex cases
• Teleconsultation: Available
• Booking: Online or phone through clinic website

Dr. Kenji Yamamoto – Osaka City General Hospital

• Qualifications: MD, Japanese Ophthalmological Society Certified Specialist
• Specialization: Phacoemulsification, age-related eye disease management
• Experience: 20 years in ophthalmology
• Teleconsultation: Available for follow-ups
• Booking: Osaka City General Hospital

Dr. Yumi Sato – Umeda Eye Clinic

• Qualifications: MD, MSc in Vision Science
• Specialization: Day-surgery cataract procedures, post-surgery vision correction
• Experience: 15+ years
• Teleconsultation: Available for international patients
• Booking: Via clinic contact form or phone

Dr. Takao Fujimoto – Sumitomo Hospital

• Qualifications: MD, Board-Certified Ophthalmologist
• Specialization: Complex cataract cases, secondary cataract treatments
• Experience: 22 years, extensive surgical training abroad
• Teleconsultation: Available
• Booking: Sumitomo Hospital

Top 16 Hospitals in Osaka for Cataract Surgery

1. Osaka University Hospital

Location: Suita, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Hiroshi Takahashi
Estimated Cost Range: ¥300,000 – ¥500,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Uses advanced femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery
• Offers a specialized ophthalmology department with subspecialty care
• Accredited by the Japan Council for Quality Health Care (JCQHC)
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6879-5111
  Website: Osaka University Hospital
  Founded as a leading teaching and research hospital, Osaka University Hospital provides cutting-edge eye surgery with a strong focus on academic excellence. It attracts patients nationwide for complex cases, and its specialists are often involved in clinical trials for new vision technologies.

2. Osaka City General Hospital

Location: Miyakojima-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Kenji Yamamoto
Estimated Cost Range: ¥250,000 – ¥450,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Skilled cataract surgeons with 20+ years of experience
• Equipped with advanced phacoemulsification systems
• Offers affordable care with high safety standards
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6929-1221
  Website: Osaka City General Hospital
  Known for reliable patient care and modern facilities, this public hospital balances affordability with advanced treatment options. It has multilingual support for foreign patients and offers both day-surgery and inpatient services.

3. Nakanoshima Eye Clinic

Location: Kita-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Keiko Nakamura
Estimated Cost Range: ¥280,000 – ¥500,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Specializes in laser-assisted cataract surgery
• Offers premium lens implant options
• High patient satisfaction rates
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6443-0035
  Website: Nakanoshima Eye Clinic
  This private eye clinic is well-regarded for personalized care, short waiting times, and the latest lens technology. Patients often praise its detailed pre-surgery counseling and comfortable recovery environment.

4. Sumitomo Hospital

Location: Nishi-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Takao Fujimoto
Estimated Cost Range: ¥300,000 – ¥480,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Handles complex cataract cases with precision
• Offers advanced diagnostic imaging for eye diseases
• International patient desk available
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6443-1261
  Website: Sumitomo Hospital
  Sumitomo Hospital blends traditional patient care values with advanced surgical technologies. It is a trusted choice for patients with other eye conditions alongside cataracts, ensuring comprehensive care.

5. Umeda Eye Clinic

Location: Kita-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Yumi Sato
Estimated Cost Range: ¥250,000 – ¥420,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Focus on day-surgery cataract treatments
• Offers multifocal and toric lens options
• Central Osaka location for easy access
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6343-6666
  Website: Umeda Eye Clinic
  Popular among working professionals, this clinic offers quick yet precise surgeries, allowing many patients to return to normal activities within days.

6. Osaka Red Cross Hospital

Location: Tennoji-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Multiple senior ophthalmologists
Estimated Cost Range: ¥230,000 – ¥400,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Long history of providing trusted medical care
• Strong post-surgery follow-up system
• Recognized for affordable yet high-quality services
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6774-5111
  Website: Osaka Red Cross Hospital
  The hospital offers a mix of traditional care and modern surgical methods. Its ophthalmology team is experienced in treating elderly patients with co-existing health conditions.

7. Kansai Medical University Hospital

Location: Hirakata, Osaka Prefecture
Top Doctor(s): Faculty of Ophthalmology specialists
Estimated Cost Range: ¥270,000 – ¥460,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• University-affiliated with strong research backing
• Offers both conventional and laser-assisted options
• High volume of cataract surgeries annually
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-72-804-0101
  Website: Kansai Medical University Hospital
  Known for evidence-based treatment, the hospital’s ophthalmology department regularly publishes research on cataract advancements, ensuring patients benefit from the latest techniques.

8. Osaka Rosai Hospital

Location: Sakai, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Senior cataract surgeons
Estimated Cost Range: ¥240,000 – ¥430,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Focus on minimally invasive procedures
• Short hospital stay with quick recovery times
• Government-affiliated for affordable pricing
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-72-252-3561
  Website: Osaka Rosai Hospital
  This hospital serves both workers and the general public, offering reliable cataract treatments with an emphasis on patient safety and post-operative care.

9. Osaka Saiseikai Nakatsu Hospital

Location: Kita-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Ophthalmology Department Specialists
Estimated Cost Range: ¥250,000 – ¥420,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Known for compassionate patient care
• Offers full eye health check-ups before surgery
• Supports multiple payment options
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6372-0333
  Website: Osaka Saiseikai Nakatsu Hospital
  A hospital with a strong community focus, Nakatsu offers modern facilities and patient-centered care that make it a reliable choice for seniors and international visitors.

10. Aiseikai Yamashita Hospital

Location: Higashiyodogawa-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Cataract and refractive surgery experts
Estimated Cost Range: ¥260,000 – ¥450,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Known for advanced imaging diagnostics
• Quiet, comfortable recovery rooms
• Flexible appointment scheduling
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6323-9911
  Website: Aiseikai Yamashita Hospital
  This hospital offers a calm, supportive environment alongside expert surgical care, making it a preferred choice for those who value comfort during recovery.

11. Osaka Ekisaikai Hospital

Location: Minato-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Experienced ophthalmologists
Estimated Cost Range: ¥230,000 – ¥400,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Modern eye surgery suites
• Affordable yet precise surgical procedures
• Experienced with elderly patient care
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6572-5721
  Website: Osaka Ekisaikai Hospital
  The hospital is recognized for its affordability and safe surgical practices, especially for seniors with other medical concerns.

12. Ishii Eye Hospital

Location: Nishi-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Dr. Masahiro Ishii
Estimated Cost Range: ¥280,000 – ¥500,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Family-run with decades of specialized eye care
• Known for personalized treatment plans
• Offers premium lens implants
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6531-0011
  Website: Ishii Eye Hospital
  Ishii Eye Hospital is trusted for its attention to detail and long-standing commitment to vision care, offering both advanced and traditional surgical approaches.

13. Kitano Hospital

Location: Osaka City, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Board-certified ophthalmologists
Estimated Cost Range: ¥250,000 – ¥430,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Multi-specialty hospital with strong eye care services
• Access to advanced imaging and laser systems
• Well-equipped ICU for high-risk cases
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6312-1221
  Website: Kitano Hospital
  Kitano Hospital is known for integrating eye surgery into a larger care framework, ensuring that patients with complex health needs receive complete treatment.

14. National Hospital Organization Osaka National Hospital

Location: Chuo-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Ophthalmology specialists
Estimated Cost Range: ¥240,000 – ¥420,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Government-run for affordable care
• Handles a large volume of surgeries yearly
• Experienced team for complex cataract cases
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6942-1331
  Website: Osaka National Hospital
  As part of Japan’s national hospital network, this facility is a safe choice for patients seeking standardized, quality-driven cataract treatment.

15. Matsunami Eye Clinic

Location: Osaka City, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Senior cataract surgeons
Estimated Cost Range: ¥260,000 – ¥450,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Specializes in same-day cataract surgery
• Offers advanced lens options
• Focus on post-surgery patient education
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6264-0022
  Website: Matsunami Eye Clinic
  Matsunami Eye Clinic is ideal for busy patients who want quick recovery and personalized aftercare.

16. Osaka Tsurumi Hospital

Location: Tsurumi-ku, Osaka
Top Doctor(s): Ophthalmology Department Specialists
Estimated Cost Range: ¥230,000 – ¥410,000 per eye
Why Choose This Hospital:

• Focus on safe, comfortable surgical experiences
• Offers cataract screening programs
• Provides multilingual support for visitors
  Contact Info:
  Phone: +81-6-6939-1121
  Website: Osaka Tsurumi Hospital
  Located in a quiet district, Osaka Tsurumi Hospital offers modern cataract treatments with strong attention to patient comfort and convenience.

Hospital Comparison Table

Cost Breakdown for Cataract Surgery in Osaka

The cost of cataract surgery in Osaka depends on the hospital, technology used, and lens type. Public hospitals tend to be more affordable, while private clinics offer more comfort and advanced technology at a higher price.

• Consultation Fee: ¥3,000–¥8,000 (includes initial eye check and basic tests)
• Pre-Surgery Tests: ¥10,000–¥20,000 (includes OCT scan, blood work, vision tests)
• Standard Phacoemulsification Surgery: ¥200,000–¥300,000 per eye
• Laser-Assisted Surgery (Femtosecond): ¥300,000–¥500,000 per eye
• Monofocal Lens Implant: Included in base price in most hospitals
• Multifocal or Premium Lens: Add ¥50,000–¥150,000 per eye
• Post-Surgery Medicines and Follow-Up: ¥5,000–¥15,000
• Public vs. Private: Public hospitals may be 15–30% cheaper but have fewer premium lens options

If you have Japanese health insurance, the cost can drop significantly. International patients can check with the hospital’s international desk for package pricing.

Tips Before Visiting a Hospital in Osaka

• Carry Medical Records: Bring past eye test results and any medical history.
• Arrive Early: Hospitals in Osaka can get busy, especially in the morning.
• Book in Advance: Secure your appointment online to avoid delays.
• Bring an Interpreter: While many hospitals offer English support, having your own interpreter can help.
• Plan Transport: You cannot drive after surgery, so arrange a taxi or have someone pick you up.
• Know the Payment Options: Check if your insurance or cashless settlement is accepted.
• Follow Pre-Surgery Instructions: Avoid wearing contact lenses for the advised number of days before surgery.

Travel Guide for International Patients

Nearest Airport: Kansai International Airport (KIX) is about 50 minutes by train to central Osaka. Limousine buses and taxis are also available for direct transfers to most hospital districts.

Hotels Nearby: Options like APA Hotel Osaka Higobashi-Ekimae, Cross Hotel Osaka, and Hotel Monterey Grasmere offer both budget and premium comfort. These hotels are within short taxi or train rides from major hospitals.

Support Services:

• Visa guidance and medical invitation letters
• Interpreter services for English, Chinese, and Korean
• Teleconsultations before arrival to plan your surgery date
• Airport pickup and drop-off through hospital-arranged services

International patients can also work with certified medical tourism agencies in Japan to coordinate travel, treatment, and recovery in Osaka.

FAQs

Is cataract surgery affordable in Osaka?
Yes, especially when compared to the US or Europe. The quality of care is high, and costs are lower for similar technology.

Do hospitals accept international insurance?
Many private and university hospitals do. Always confirm with the hospital’s billing department before your trip.

Can I book a consultation online?
Yes, most hospitals in Osaka offer online booking forms or email scheduling for international patients.

How long is the hospital stay for cataract surgery?
Most patients go home the same day, but some may stay overnight if needed.

Are government hospitals included?
Yes, several top-performing government hospitals are on the list and offer excellent results at lower costs.

What documents do international patients need?
A valid passport, medical history, and insurance documents if applicable.

Conclusion

Osaka stands out as a safe, affordable, and technologically advanced city for cataract surgery. With skilled surgeons, modern equipment, and patient-friendly services, you can expect clear vision and fast recovery. Whether you choose the research-driven Osaka University Hospital or the personalized care of Nakanoshima Eye Clinic, you will find options that fit your needs and budget. To begin your journey toward better vision, contact your preferred hospital today and schedule an initial consultation.