What is SMC International?

SMC International connects international patients with 50+ expert doctors across 8 crucial wellness and investment pages, simplifying global healthcare access.

What eye surgeries are available?

Cuban ophthalmology centers perform cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation, retinal procedures, corneal surgery, glaucoma treatment, and other ophthalmic surgical procedures. The specific procedures available depend on the facility and your individual case.

How long do I need to stay in Cuba?

Recovery time varies by procedure. Cataract surgery typically requires a short stay with follow-up over several days. More complex procedures may require longer stays. Your medical team will provide a personalized treatment timeline.

Is Cuba experienced in eye surgery?

Yes. Cuba's 'Operation Miracle' program has performed millions of eye surgeries across Latin America and the Caribbean. Cuban ophthalmologists are highly experienced, and the country maintains modern eye care facilities.

What post-operative care is provided?

Comprehensive post-operative care includes follow-up examinations, medication management, and recovery monitoring. Our international patient team coordinates all follow-up appointments and ensures you have clear instructions before returning home.

What eye surgeries are available?

Cuban ophthalmology centers perform cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation, retinal procedures, corneal surgery, glaucoma treatment, and other ophthalmic surgical procedures. The specific procedures available depend on the facility and your individual case.

How long do I need to stay in Cuba?

Recovery time varies by procedure. Cataract surgery typically requires a short stay with follow-up over several days. More complex procedures may require longer stays. Your medical team will provide a personalized treatment timeline.

Is Cuba experienced in eye surgery?

Yes. Cuba's 'Operation Miracle' program has performed millions of eye surgeries across Latin America and the Caribbean. Cuban ophthalmologists are highly experienced, and the country maintains modern eye care facilities.

What post-operative care is provided?

Comprehensive post-operative care includes follow-up examinations, medication management, and recovery monitoring. Our international patient team coordinates all follow-up appointments and ensures you have clear instructions before returning home.

Eye Care

Ophthalmology

Advanced ophthalmic surgery and diagnostic programs

Cuba's ophthalmology services include advanced surgical and diagnostic programs for a wide range of eye conditions. Cuban eye centers combine experienced surgical teams with modern technology to deliver high-quality ophthalmic care to international patients.

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Medically ReviewedSMC Salud Medical Editorial Team

Last updated: July 15, 2026

Editorial Policy

Expected Duration

Days to weeks depending on the procedure.

1
Pre-operative evaluation
Timeframe: 1–3 days
Comprehensive eye exam, visual acuity, tonometry, slit-lamp, dilated fundus exam, and OCT imaging to plan surgery.
2
Surgical procedure
Timeframe: Same day
Cataract phacoemulsification with IOL, retinal, corneal, or glaucoma procedure performed by experienced surgeons.
3
Post-operative recovery
Timeframe: 3–14 days
Follow-up exams, eye-drop regimen, and recovery monitoring before clearance to travel home.

Preparation

Complete eye examination

Bring recent refraction, tonometry, and fundus records; additional imaging will be done on arrival to finalize planning.

Review medications

Stop blood thinners and certain eye drops only as directed by your surgeon; confirm which to pause pre-op.

Arrange fasting & transport

Plan for pre-procedure fasting and arrange a companion for transport and care on procedure day.

Plan post-op support

Arrange a quiet recovery space and a caregiver to assist with eye drops and daily tasks in the first days.

Recovery

Use prescribed eye drops

Administer antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops on the exact schedule to prevent infection and control inflammation.

Avoid rubbing or straining

Do not rub the eye, avoid heavy lifting, and use the protective shield at night as directed.

Attend follow-up exams

Keep all scheduled post-op visits so your surgeon can confirm healing and clear you for travel.

Watch for warning signs

Report sudden vision loss, severe pain, flashes of light, or increasing redness immediately.

Resume activity gradually

Return to driving, exercise, and screen use only after your surgeon confirms it is safe.

Why International Patients Choose Our Facilities

World-class Cuban institutions, pioneering biotechnology, and complete concierge care — the reasons patients from 40+ countries trust SMC Salud with their treatment.

Treating Facilities

Ramón Pando Ferrer Ophthalmology Institute

Havana · Ophthalmology & Eye Surgery

Cuba's premier ophthalmology institute with extensive experience in cataract, retinal, and corneal surgery.

The SMC Salud Advantage

Multilingual Patient Coordinators

Native-language coordinators in Arabic, Turkish, French, German, English, and more guide you through every step of your medical journey.

24/7 Concierge Support

Visa processing, airport reception, accommodation, interpreters, and round-the-clock coordination — every detail handled from inquiry to return home.

Pioneering Cuban Biotechnology

Access unique therapies developed by Cuba's leading research institutions — CIMAvax-EGF, Heberprot-P, Melagenin Plus — available only through Cuba's medical system.

Proven International Track Record

Decades of medical excellence with patients treated from over 40 countries, backed by WHO-recognized research institutions and experienced specialists.

Integrated Treatment & Recovery

Surgery, therapy, and rehabilitation delivered in one coordinated program by a single medical team — the Cuban model that achieves strong functional outcomes.

Cultural & Dietary Accommodation

Prayer rooms, halal and special-diet meals, and culturally aware care that honors your faith, customs, and family throughout your stay in Cuba.

Eligibility Assessment

Review the requirements below to understand what's needed for your treatment in Cuba. Check off each item as you prepare.

Treatment-specific eligibility

Eligibility is determined through ophthalmological evaluation. Common indications include cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, retinal disorders, and corneal conditions. Patients with complex cases or those seeking second opinions are welcome.

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Medical Documentation

Health Requirements

Travel & Logistics

Check off items as you prepare — a CTA will appear when all are reviewed.

Patient Experiences

Real Stories from Our Patients

Read firsthand accounts from international patients who completed their medical journeys with us.

“The ophthalmology team restored my vision with precision and care. From diagnostics to post-operative recovery, the entire journey was seamless and reassuring.”

Giuseppe B.

Italy

Ophthalmology

“My orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation were handled with exceptional expertise. Within weeks I was walking pain-free — something I had not done in years.”

Hans M.

Germany

Orthopedics & Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

Specialists & Medical Centers

The physicians and Cuban medical institutions behind this specialty.

Specialists

Dr. Rosa María Castellanos

Ophthalmology

MD — Ramón Pando Ferrer Institute

Medical Centers

Ramón Pando Ferrer Ophthalmology Institute

Ophthalmology & Eye Surgery

Havana

Coordination & Processing Center

The team that receives your request

You access our services through the Coordination and Processing Center, where a specialist immediately responds to your request and assesses whether you require the service — and you can also access an online consultation prior to your trip.

Iliana Reyes Álvarez

Head of the Coordination and Processing Center

Doctor in Medicine, First Degree Specialist in Comprehensive General Medicine. Master in Primary Health Care. Certified in Foreign Trade.