Ophthalmic Equipment Market Outlook, 2030

The ophthalmic equipment industry plays a crucial role in the global healthcare sector, catering to the diagnosis, treatment, and management of various eye disorders and diseases. With the increasing prevalence of conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic retinopathy, the demand for advanced ophthalmic devices has surged significantly. The market has witnessed substantial growth due to the aging population, increased screen exposure leading to digital eye strain, and rising awareness about early diagnosis and treatment.

Additionally, technological advancements such as AI-powered diagnostic tools, minimally invasive surgical procedures, and improved imaging techniques have reshaped the landscape of ophthalmology. As healthcare systems worldwide strive to enhance patient care and accessibility, the ophthalmic equipment market continues to evolve, offering innovative solutions to meet the growing needs of both patients and healthcare providers. One of the key drivers of growth in the ophthalmic equipment industry is the increasing prevalence of eye-related diseases.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 2.2 billion people worldwide suffer from vision impairment or blindness, with a significant proportion of cases being preventable or treatable with the right interventions. Conditions such as myopia (nearsightedness) and presbyopia (age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects) have become increasingly common due to lifestyle changes, particularly excessive screen usage and reduced outdoor activities.

This has driven the demand for diagnostic and therapeutic ophthalmic devices, including autorefractors, fundus cameras, optical coherence tomography (OCT) scanners, and laser-based treatment systems. Furthermore, the growing burden of diabetes has contributed to an increased incidence of diabetic retinopathy, necessitating regular eye screenings and advanced treatment modalities such as anti-VEGF injections and laser photocoagulation.

According to the research report “Global Ophthalmic Equipment Market Outlook, 2030” the global market is projected to reach market size of USD 68.42 Billion by 2030 increasing from USD 51.83 Billion in 2024, growing with 4.84% CAGR by 2025-30. Technological advancements have been instrumental in revolutionizing the ophthalmic equipment industry, leading to more efficient, accurate, and patient-friendly solutions. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in diagnostic imaging has enabled ophthalmologists to detect eye diseases at an early stage with enhanced precision.

AI-driven platforms can analyze retinal images for signs of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and AMD, facilitating faster diagnosis and reducing the burden on specialists. Additionally, innovations in optical coherence tomography (OCT) have significantly improved imaging capabilities, allowing for detailed cross-sectional views of the retina and optic nerve. Another breakthrough is the development of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS), which has enhanced the precision and safety of cataract procedures by automating key surgical steps.

These technological advancements have not only improved clinical outcomes but also enhanced patient comfort and reduced recovery times, making ophthalmic treatments more accessible and effective.The industry has also been influenced by the increasing adoption of teleophthalmology and remote diagnostic solutions. Telemedicine has gained prominence in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person consultations were limited. Remote diagnostic tools, mobile eye screening devices, and cloud-based platforms have enabled ophthalmologists to assess patients' eye health remotely, expanding access to eye care services in underserved regions.

This trend has been particularly beneficial in rural areas and developing countries where access to specialized eye care professionals is limited. Companies are investing in portable fundus cameras, smartphone-based retinal imaging systems, and AI-powered diagnostic software to bridge the gap in eye care accessibility. As teleophthalmology continues to evolve, it is expected to play a significant role in early disease detection, patient monitoring, and personalized treatment planning.

Market Drivers

• Rising Prevalence of Eye Disorders and Aging Population: One of the most significant drivers of the ophthalmic equipment industry is the increasing prevalence of eye-related diseases such as cataracts, glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. The aging global population further amplifies this demand, as elderly individuals are more prone to vision impairment and require frequent eye examinations and surgeries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), by 2050, nearly 2 billion people are expected to be aged 60 and above, significantly increasing the need for ophthalmic diagnostic and surgical equipment.
• Technological Advancements in AI and Robotics: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and machine learning in ophthalmic equipment has transformed disease detection, diagnosis, and treatment. AI-powered retinal imaging, automated diagnostic tools, and robotic-assisted surgeries are making eye care more efficient, accurate, and accessible. For instance, AI-based fundus cameras can detect diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma at an early stage, reducing dependency on specialized professionals and improving patient outcomes.

Market Challenges

• High Cost of Advanced Ophthalmic Equipment: Many state-of-the-art ophthalmic devices, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems, femtosecond lasers, and AI-powered imaging tools, are expensive, limiting their adoption in low- and middle-income countries. The cost of a single femtosecond laser system can range from $300,000 to $500,000, making it unaffordable for small clinics and healthcare providers in developing regions.
• Shortage of Skilled Ophthalmologists and Technicians: The demand for ophthalmic services is growing faster than the availability of trained ophthalmologists, optometrists, and technicians. Many rural and underserved areas lack eye care specialists, restricting access to essential treatments. According to the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness (IAPB), some developing countries have only one ophthalmologist per million people, making early diagnosis and intervention challenging.

Market Trends

• Teleophthalmology and Remote Eye Care Solutions: The adoption of telemedicine in ophthalmology has surged, allowing remote diagnosis and consultations via digital platforms. Smartphone-based fundus cameras, cloud-based AI diagnostics, and virtual consultations are bridging the gap in eye care accessibility, especially in rural areas. Companies like Eyenuk and RetinalGeniX are leading this trend by developing AI-powered remote screening solutions.
• Rise of Minimally Invasive and Laser-Assisted Surgeries: Patients and doctors are increasingly preferring minimally invasive ophthalmic surgeries (MIOS) due to faster recovery times, reduced complications, and improved precision. Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS), micro-invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), and SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) for refractive corrections are revolutionizing surgical treatments, making them safer and more effective.

Diagnostic devices are leading the ophthalmic equipment market primarily due to the rising demand for early and precise detection of eye diseases such as glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) .

As vision impairment and blindness become global public health concerns, the focus on preventive eye care has intensified, driving the adoption of advanced diagnostic tools. Optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus cameras, autorefractors, and AI-powered retinal imaging systems have become essential for ophthalmologists to detect abnormalities before they progress to severe stages. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in diagnostic equipment has further enhanced accuracy, efficiency, and accessibility, allowing automated screenings even in primary healthcare settings.

Additionally, the increasing prevalence of diabetes worldwide has heightened the need for routine eye screenings, as diabetic retinopathy remains a leading cause of blindness. Governments and healthcare organizations are also investing in vision screening programs to reduce preventable blindness, further propelling the demand for ophthalmic diagnostic devices. Unlike surgical or treatment equipment, which is used for specific procedures, diagnostic devices are required across all levels of ophthalmic care - from routine eye check-ups to specialized disease management - making them indispensable in the industry.

Cataracts lead the ophthalmic equipment market due to their widespread prevalence, particularly among the aging population, and the growing number of surgical procedures performed to restore vision.

Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, affecting over 90 million people, with cases expected to rise as life expectancy increases. The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery, which involves the removal of the clouded lens and its replacement with an intraocular lens (IOL). With technological advancements, cataract surgeries have become safer, quicker, and more precise, driving the demand for advanced surgical equipment such as femtosecond lasers, phacoemulsification systems, and premium IOLs. Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) has gained popularity due to its high precision and reduced recovery time, making it a preferred choice for both patients and surgeons.

Additionally, government-led initiatives and non-profit organizations are investing heavily in cataract surgery programs, especially in developing countries where untreated cataracts are a major cause of blindness. The affordability and accessibility of modern cataract surgery, coupled with rising medical tourism for high-quality yet cost-effective procedures, have further fueled market growth. Unlike other ophthalmic conditions that may rely on long-term disease management, cataract surgery provides a permanent solution, making it one of the most frequently performed and in-demand ophthalmic procedures globally.

Consumers are the leading end users in the ophthalmic equipment market due to the increasing demand for vision correction solutions, home-based eye care devices, and rising awareness of preventive eye health.

With the global rise in refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia, more individuals are actively seeking corrective measures like contact lenses, prescription eyeglasses, and at-home vision testing kits. The widespread use of digital screens, prolonged screen exposure, and lifestyle changes have accelerated cases of digital eye strain and dry eye syndrome, prompting consumers to invest in blue light-blocking glasses, artificial tears, and personal diagnostic tools. Additionally, advancements in smart eyewear and wearable vision technology, such as augmented reality (AR) glasses and AI-powered vision assessment apps, have empowered consumers to monitor their eye health more conveniently.

Another major factor driving this segment is the increasing accessibility of over-the-counter (OTC) ophthalmic products, including eye drops, lubricants, and vision supplements, which allow individuals to manage minor eye conditions without frequent visits to eye specialists. The rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer brands has further accelerated this trend, making high-quality eye care products more accessible and affordable. Furthermore, as people become more proactive about their health, there is a growing preference for laser vision correction procedures like LASIK and SMILE, driving demand for advanced ophthalmic equipment in consumer-focused eye clinics.

Spectacle lenses dominate the ophthalmic equipment market due to the global surge in refractive errors, increasing screen time, and growing consumer awareness about vision health.

Myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia affect billions of people worldwide, making prescription eyeglasses the most widely used vision correction solution. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 2.6 billion people require prescription lenses, with myopia cases rising sharply due to excessive screen exposure and reduced outdoor activities. The demand for blue light-blocking lenses, anti-glare coatings, and photochromic lenses has also surged as consumers seek protection from digital eye strain and harmful UV rays.

Additionally, advancements in spectacle lens technology - such as progressive lenses, lightweight high-index materials, and customized digital lenses - have enhanced user comfort and visual clarity, further driving adoption. Unlike contact lenses or surgical procedures, spectacles remain the most accessible, cost-effective, and non-invasive option for vision correction, making them popular across all age groups. Moreover, the increasing influence of fashion trends, designer eyewear brands, and e-commerce platforms has transformed spectacles into both a medical necessity and a lifestyle accessory.

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) systems are leading in the ophthalmic equipment market due to their critical role in early disease detection, high-resolution imaging capabilities, and growing prevalence of retinal disorders such as glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) .

As eye diseases often develop silently, early and accurate diagnosis is crucial to prevent irreversible vision loss. OCT technology enables non-invasive, cross-sectional imaging of the retina and optic nerve, allowing ophthalmologists to detect microscopic changes long before symptoms appear. The increasing prevalence of diabetes has further accelerated the demand for OCT systems, as diabetic retinopathy remains a leading cause of blindness worldwide. Moreover, advancements in swept-source and spectral-domain OCT have significantly improved imaging speed, depth, and accuracy, making the technology indispensable in both clinical and research settings.

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in OCT devices has also enhanced diagnostic precision, enabling automated detection and disease progression tracking. Furthermore, portable and handheld OCT devices are expanding access to advanced retinal imaging, especially in remote and underserved areas. Unlike other diagnostic tools, which may focus on general eye exams, OCT is particularly valued for its detailed retinal imaging, enabling personalized treatment plans and better patient outcomes.

North America leads the ophthalmic equipment market due to its well-developed healthcare infrastructure, high adoption of advanced eye care technologies, and strong presence of key industry players.

The region has a high prevalence of eye disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), driving demand for state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical equipment. The widespread availability of optical coherence tomography (OCT), femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS), and AI-powered diagnostic tools has significantly improved early disease detection and treatment outcomes. Additionally, North America has a large aging population, with the U.S. Census Bureau estimating that by 2030, over 20% of Americans will be aged 65 and older, further increasing the demand for vision care services.

The region also benefits from favorable reimbursement policies, high healthcare spending, and strong government initiatives supporting eye health awareness programs. Moreover, leading ophthalmic equipment manufacturers, including Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, Johnson & Johnson Vision, and Carl Zeiss Meditec, are headquartered or have a significant presence in North America, ensuring continuous innovation and market expansion. The rising popularity of minimally invasive procedures, teleophthalmology, and personalized vision correction solutions has further strengthened North America’s dominance.

• In August 2023, Johnson & Johnson Vision launched the Elita laser correction device in the U.S., offering a minimally invasive laser-assisted lens removal procedure for short-sightedness.
• In July 2023, Alkem Laboratories entered the ophthalmology market in India with a portfolio of affordable eye care products.
• In June 2023, Bausch + Lomb introduced INFUSE Multifocal SiHy daily disposable contact lenses in the U.S. for enhanced comfort.
• In April 2023, Bausch + Lomb launched TotalVisc and StableVisc, offering dual-action protection for cataract surgery, expanding its product portfolio.

Considered in this report

• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report

• Ophthalmic Equipment Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Product

• Surgical Devices
• Diagnostic Devices
• Vision Care Devices

By Application

• Cataract
• Glaucoma
• Vitreo Retinal Disorders
• Refractor Disorders
• Other Applications

By End Users

• Consumers
• Hospitals
• Specialty Clinics & Ambulatory Surgery Centers
• Other End Users

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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