China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market Size, Share and Trends Analysis Report – Industry Overview and Forecast to 2032

China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market Size

• The China ophthalmic surgical instruments market size was valued at USD 2.25 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 6.43 billion by 2032, at a CAGR of 14.0% during the forecast period
• The market growth is primarily driven by the rising prevalence of eye disorders, such as cataracts and glaucoma, coupled with a rapid expansion of ophthalmic surgery centers and increasing healthcare expenditure across China
• Moreover, the adoption of advanced microsurgical technologies, rising demand for minimally invasive ophthalmic procedures, and ongoing innovation by domestic and global device manufacturers are fueling market expansion. These combined factors are enhancing surgical precision and efficiency, thereby significantly accelerating the growth of China’s ophthalmic surgical instruments industry

China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market Analysis

• Ophthalmic surgical instruments, essential for procedures such as cataract, glaucoma, and retinal surgeries, are driving the growth of China’s ophthalmology sector. The market benefits from technological advancements, including femtosecond lasers, micro-incision systems, and high-precision visualization tools that improve surgical accuracy and patient outcomes
• The rising prevalence of vision disorders, an aging population, and growing awareness of preventive and corrective eye care are key factors fueling demand. Furthermore, government initiatives to enhance ophthalmic healthcare infrastructure and increasing investments in hospital modernization are accelerating market expansion
• Increasing collaboration between domestic manufacturers and international technology providers is fostering innovation and the development of cost-effective, high-quality instruments tailored for the local market
• The market is witnessing rapid adoption of advanced ophthalmic microscopes, phacoemulsification systems, and vitrectomy devices across hospitals and specialized eye clinics, while smaller clinics are also integrating compact and automated tools for improved efficiency
• The Cataract Surgery Devices segment dominated with a market share of 43.3% in 2024, driven by the high incidence of cataracts among the elderly population and the widespread adoption of modern surgical procedures such as phacoemulsification and femtosecond-assisted cataract surgery throughout China’s healthcare network

Report Scope and China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market Segmentation 

China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market Trends

“Advancement in Minimally Invasive Surgical Technologies”

• A significant and accelerating trend in the China ophthalmic surgical instruments market is the rising adoption of minimally invasive surgical technologies such as micro-incision cataract surgery (MICS) and femtosecond laser-assisted procedures, which improve precision and reduce recovery times
• For instance, femtosecond laser platforms such as LenSx are increasingly being implemented in leading eye hospitals across China to perform highly accurate capsulotomies and lens fragmentation
• Integration of advanced imaging and surgical guidance systems enables surgeons to plan and execute procedures with higher precision, improving patient outcomes and surgical efficiency. For instance, systems such as ZEISS CALLISTO eye assist in real-time guidance and intraoperative measurements during cataract surgery
• The seamless combination of automated phacoemulsification systems with high-resolution microscopes facilitates efficient surgical workflows and reduces intraoperative complications, enhancing overall clinical performance
• This trend towards more precise, technology-driven, and patient-friendly ophthalmic procedures is fundamentally reshaping surgical standards, encouraging both public and private hospitals to invest in advanced instruments
• The demand for instruments that support minimally invasive procedures and digital surgical assistance is growing rapidly as hospitals prioritize patient safety, efficiency, and high-quality surgical outcomes

China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market Dynamics

Driver

“Rising Prevalence of Eye Disorders and Aging Population”

• The increasing prevalence of cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and other vision disorders, combined with China’s rapidly aging population, is a major driver of market growth
• For instance, according to the China National Health Commission, over 100 million people are affected by cataracts, leading to growing demand for surgical interventions and instruments
• As awareness of early diagnosis and treatment options rises, more patients are seeking corrective surgeries, boosting adoption of advanced ophthalmic surgical instruments
• Furthermore, expanding hospital infrastructure and investments in specialized eye care centers are increasing the accessibility of advanced surgical procedures across urban and semi-urban regions
• The growing preference for outpatient surgical procedures and shorter hospital stays is further driving demand for minimally invasive, high-precision instruments that improve surgical efficiency and patient satisfaction
• The trend towards technologically advanced surgeries and rising patient volumes is creating sustained demand for innovative ophthalmic instruments in China’s healthcare system

Restraint/Challenge

“High Equipment Costs and Skilled Workforce Requirement”

• The relatively high cost of advanced ophthalmic surgical instruments, including femtosecond lasers, phacoemulsification systems, and high-resolution microscopes, poses a challenge to widespread adoption, especially in smaller clinics
• For instance, the purchase and maintenance of LenSx or Alcon Centurion systems require substantial capital investment, limiting their use to large hospitals and specialized centers
• In addition, the effective operation of sophisticated instruments requires highly trained ophthalmic surgeons and support staff, creating workforce and training constraints in some regions
• Limited availability of skilled technicians for maintenance and calibration of advanced devices can impact workflow efficiency and instrument longevity, restricting broader utilization
• While leasing options and government subsidies are emerging, the high upfront costs and ongoing operational expenses remain significant barriers to entry for many healthcare providers
• Overcoming these challenges through affordable instrument options, training programs, and localized manufacturing support will be crucial for sustained market growth and wider adoption of advanced ophthalmic instruments in China

China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market Scope

The market is segmented on the basis of product, application, and end user.

• By Product

On the basis of product, the China ophthalmic surgical instruments market is segmented into cataract surgery devices, refractive surgery devices, glaucoma surgery devices, vitreoretinal surgery devices, ophthalmic microscopes, and ophthalmic surgical accessories. The cataract surgery devices segment dominated the market with the largest market revenue share of 43.3% in 2024, driven by the high prevalence of age-related cataracts in China’s aging population. Hospitals and specialty clinics prefer these devices due to their precision, reduced complication rates, and faster patient recovery. Modern procedures such as phacoemulsification and femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery require specialized instruments such as phaco probes, ultrasonic handpieces, and IOL injectors. Increasing awareness about early treatment and improved surgical outcomes is further boosting adoption. Government initiatives promoting cataract surgeries in urban and rural regions are also increasing accessibility. The presence of both domestic and international manufacturers ensures a steady supply of cost-effective, innovative instruments.

The refractive surgery devices segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth rate from 2025 to 2032, fueled by rising demand for vision correction procedures such as LASIK and SMILE. Advanced excimer and femtosecond lasers, along with diagnostic and mapping tools, are essential for precise corneal reshaping. Increasing awareness among younger populations seeking myopia and hyperopia correction is driving growth. Integration with digital imaging and wavefront-guided technologies enhances surgical accuracy and safety. Cosmetic and quality-of-life considerations are increasing elective procedures. Specialty clinics and hospitals investing in refractive technologies gain a competitive advantage through higher patient throughput and premium service offerings.

• By Application

On the basis of application, the market is segmented into cataract, refractive, glaucoma, vitreoretinal, diabetic retinopathy, and others. The cataract application segment held the largest market revenue share in 2024 due to the high incidence of age-related cataracts among the elderly. Surgical interventions are essential to restore vision, and advanced cataract devices improve precision and reduce postoperative complications. Increasing government campaigns promoting cataract awareness and surgeries in both urban and rural areas are boosting procedure volumes. Ophthalmologists increasingly rely on phacoemulsification and laser-assisted devices to achieve predictable outcomes. Hospitals benefit from high patient inflows due to awareness initiatives. The presence of both local and global device suppliers ensures a continuous supply of innovative instruments.

The glaucoma segment is expected to witness the fastest growth from 2025 to 2032 due to rising awareness and early diagnosis initiatives for glaucoma patients. Instruments such as trabeculectomy kits, drainage implants, and MIGS devices are seeing higher adoption. Increasing prevalence of glaucoma in urban populations and chronic disease management requirements are driving growth. Hospitals and specialty clinics prefer devices that reduce surgical risks and improve patient safety. Technological advancements in micro-invasive glaucoma devices further accelerate adoption. Patient preference for minimally invasive procedures and shorter recovery times supports segment expansion.

• By End User

On the basis of end user, the market is segmented into hospitals, specialty clinics, and ambulatory surgery centers. Hospitals accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2024 due to advanced infrastructure, availability of specialized ophthalmic surgeons, and capacity to handle high patient volumes. Equipped surgical suites for cataract, glaucoma, and vitreoretinal procedures require sophisticated instruments. Public and private hospitals benefit from government funding and insurance reimbursements for ophthalmic surgeries, increasing adoption. Hospitals prefer high-end, durable, multi-functional instruments for repeated use. Training programs for surgical staff enhance instrument utilization efficiency. Large hospitals influence smaller clinics, promoting adoption of new technologies and procedures.

Specialty ophthalmic clinics are projected to witness the fastest growth from 2025 to 2032 due to increasing outpatient surgeries and demand for elective procedures such as refractive surgeries. These clinics focus on niche services and invest in instruments such as femtosecond lasers, microkeratomes, and advanced microscopes. Growth is supported by rising consumer preference for shorter waiting times, personalized care, and advanced surgical techniques. Clinics are expanding in urban centers with higher disposable income and awareness. Adoption of compact and automated instruments allows clinics to perform high-precision procedures without large hospital infrastructure. Collaborations with international technology providers also accelerate access to cutting-edge devices.

China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market Share

The China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:

• Suzhou Belle Healthcare Technology Co., Ltd. (China)
• Shanghai MediWorks Precision Instruments Co., Ltd. (China)
• Ophsurin Co., Ltd. (China)
• Hongdee Ophthalmic Equipment (China)
• Shinva Medical Instrument Co., Ltd. (China)
• Huaiyin Medical Instruments Co., Ltd. (China)
• Hoya Corporation (Japan)
• Ocular Instruments (U.S.)
• Charmant Inc. (Japan)
• Guopeng Global Healthcare Management (Chengdu) Co., Ltd. (China)
• Guangzhou Happycare Medical Equipment Co., Ltd. (China)
• Shenzhen Yikang Medical Instruments Co., Ltd. (China)
• Wuxi Kangning Medical Instruments Co., Ltd. (China)
• Hangzhou Jingsheng Medical Instruments Co., Ltd. (China)
• Suzhou Medical Instruments Co., Ltd. (China)
• Nanjing Medical Instruments Co., Ltd. (China)
• Zhejiang Medical Instruments Co., Ltd. (China)
• Beijing Hongdee Corporation (China)

What are the Recent Developments in China Ophthalmic Surgical Instruments Market?

• In May 2025, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China published the “2025 Medical Device Guidelines Revisions Plan,” aiming to update 110 guidelines for Class II and III medical devices, including ophthalmic surgical instruments. This initiative is expected to streamline regulatory processes and enhance the approval efficiency for new ophthalmic surgical devices in the Chinese market
• In February 2025, Nova Eye's iTrack Advance canaloplasty device received approval from the NMPA for use in China, expanding the range of minimally invasive surgical options available for glaucoma treatment
• In July 2024, TowardPi Medical, a leading company in high-end ophthalmic medical equipment in China, completed 200 million yuan in Series D financing. This round of financing was led by Matrix Partners China, with participation from other institutions including GTJA Investment Group
• In November 2023, ZOC and China Southern Airlines jointly launched the "Bright Eyes, Caring Hearts - Flying Across Guangdong and Xinjiang" themed flight in Guangzhou, providing free cataract surgeries for residents in Kashi, Xinjiang, through the "Guangdong-Xinjiang Bright Journey" initiative
• In October 2022, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China published twenty industry standards to guide manufacturers for local type testing and regulatory approval of ophthalmic surgical instruments

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