Cataract Training Courses Worldwide
- Atanas Bogoev M.D. and Maria Cholakova
- 5 days ago
- 15 min read
Updated: 9 hours ago
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and impactful procedures in ophthalmology. To ensure great outcomes, eyecare physicians worldwide engage in cataract training programs. We made this guide to list all of the most prestigious phacoemulsification training courses in the world. We've organized by continent, detailing information about their programs, registration processes, and costs.
Table of contents:
Cataract Training Courses in Europe
Oftalmo University Campus Europe
The curriculum provides a solid foundation in cataract surgery. Oftalmo University Europe offers a dynamic phacoemulsification course combining simulation with wet lab training, utilizing the latest EyeSi simulator technology. The courses combine online learning with in-person training for a flexible and comprehensive educational experience.
Participants get access to a network of renowned ophthalmic surgeons and educators providing guidance throughout the program. Training is conducted at the state-of-the-art IMO Grupo Miranza, equipped with advanced surgical technologies and simulation tools.
Venue: IMO Grupo Miranza, Barcelona, Spain
Duration: 1 or 2 weeks
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: €3,000–€5,000 (depending on selected modules)
ESCRS Complex Cataract Masterclass
The ESCRS Complex Cataract Masterclass is a hybrid training program for cataract surgeons looking to improve their management of challenging cases and complications. It includes online modules, live webinars, mentorship, and in-person labs.
Format: 4 online modules, 4 live webinars, personal mentorship, hands-on wet/dry lab in Copenhagen (during ESCRS Congress)
Duration: ~4 months online, 2 days live
Level: Intermediate to Advanced (≥300 cases as primary surgeon)
Venue: Copenhagen, Denmark
Cost: €250 (excl. travel)
Deadline: 1 June 2025
ESASO Cataract Surgery Course
The intensive 3-day program for ophthalmologists aims to enhance their cataract surgery skills. The course combines theoretical lectures with practical sessions, covering preoperative assessment and patient selection; advanced phacoemulsification techniques; management of intraoperative complications; and the latest advancements in IOLs.
Participants engage in interactive discussions, case studies, and hands-on wet lab sessions to reinforce learning.
Venue: ESASO Training Centre, Lugano Campus, Switzerland
Dates: 24-26 February 2025
Duration: 3 days
Level: Intermediate
Accreditation: 17.5 European CME credits (EACCME)
Cost (without accommodation): 1,500 CHF / 1600 EUR / 1800 USD
Graduates of this course may be eligible to apply for the ESASO Visiting Fellowship at the LV Prasad Eye Institute (LVPEI) in India. This four-week program offers hands-on cataract surgery experience under expert supervision, with fellows performing a minimum of 24 surgeries during the tenure.
Balkan Ophthalmic Wetlab Course
The Balkan Ophthalmic Wetlab Course is a modular program covering various ophthalmic surgeries, like cataract, vitreoretinal, laser refractive, glaucoma, keratoplasty, and oculoplastic procedures. The course combines theoretical lectures, video demonstrations, and extensive hands-on wet lab sessions using porcine eyes and synthetic models. Participants engage in interactive discussions and receive guidance from international faculty members.
Venue: Hotel Hilton Sofia, Bulgaria
Dates: 28 – 31 May 2025
Duration: 4 days
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: €2,300-€2,500
Group Discounts (2025): 10% off for groups of 5–9 participants, 15% off for groups of 10 or more
MTS – The Wetlab Company
MTS organizes microsurgical training academies for ophthalmologists, focusing on hands-on wet lab experiences. Each course combines lectures, video demonstrations, and extensive hands-on practice using synthetic and animal eyes and advanced surgical simulators. MTS collaborates with various institutions across Europe to provide state-of-the-art training environments.
Venue: Various locations across Europe
Duration: Varies by course (typically 1–2 days)
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Cost: €2,600–€3,600 per course
Alcon Experience Academy
The Alcon Experience Academy offers a blend of online and in-person training resources for eye care professionals at various stages of their careers. The program gives access to over 500 training videos, webcasts, and personalized curricula covering various ophthalmic topics.
Alcon Experience Centers provides hands-on training opportunities, like practical sessions using the latest Alcon surgical equipment and utilizing the Fidelis™ VR Ophthalmic Surgical Simulator for immersive learning experiences. In addition, attendees will have structured programs focusing on various aspects of cataract surgery, from basic techniques to managing complex cases.
Venue: Multiple global centers in Barcelona (Spain)
Duration: 1-2 days
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Cost: Free upon approved application; participants are responsible for travel and accommodation expenses
Barraquer Institute – 3D Cataract Surgery Simulator Course
The Barraquer Institute in Barcelona offers a structured, simulator-based cataract surgery training program utilizing a state-of-the-art 3D virtual reality platform. This course provides ophthalmologists and residents a risk-free environment to develop and refine their surgical skills.
Venue: Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre, Barcelona, Spain
Duration: Flexible packages of 5, 10, 20, or 30 hours
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Cost: Not publicly listed; inquire directly for pricing
HelpMeSee Simulation-Based Cataract Surgery Training
HelpMeSee offers an immersive, high-fidelity simulation-based training program focused on Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) and phacoemulsification. Utilizing a state-of-the-art VR Eye Surgery Simulator with haptic feedback, the program provides a risk-free environment for ophthalmologists to develop and refine surgical skills.
The curriculum includes instructor-led sessions, eLearning modules, and performance assessments to ensure comprehensive skill acquisition.
Venues: Gepromed, Strasbourg (France)
Duration: 4–5 days, depending on the course selected
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: €1,500–€5,000 per course, varying by location and course type.
Cataract Surgery Training in North America
Harvard Cataract Surgery Course
The Harvard Cataract Surgery Course is an intensive weekend program designed exclusively for second-year ophthalmology residents. It combines didactic lectures with hands-on wet lab sessions, focusing on the latest surgical techniques and technologies in cataract surgery. Participants gain practical experience in phacoemulsification, capsulorhexis, and hydrodissection.
Venue: Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, MA, USA
Duration: 2 days (typically held over a weekend)
Level: Intermediate (Second-Year Ophthalmology Residents)
Cost: Free (registration required)
Oftalmo University Cataract Course - Campus Mexico
Oftalmo University’s Mexico City campus offers a comprehensive Cataract Academy Program designed to transform ophthalmologists into proficient cataract surgeons. The program combines online theoretical modules with hands-on simulation and wet lab training, culminating in mentored surgeries on real patients. Participants benefit from personalized mentorship, access to advanced surgical technologies, and a supportive learning community.
Participants receive lifetime access to course materials, weekly live Q&A sessions with mentors, and a certificate upon completion. Graduates are also eligible to apply for advanced training programs at Oftalmo University’s European campus.
Venue: Oftalmo University Campus, Mexico City, Mexico
Duration: 9 weeks (online modules) + 1–2 weeks (in-person training)
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: €3,000–€5,000 (depending on selected modules)
The William Maul Measey Ophthalmic Surgical Training (MOST) Laboratory
The William Maul Measey Ophthalmic Surgical Training (MOST) Laboratory at Wills Eye Hospital offers a state-of-the-art environment for honing cataract surgery skills and is accessible not only to residents and fellows from Wills Eye but also to international medical graduates through the Wills International Scholars Program.
This structured observership allows foreign doctors to engage with Wills Eye experts, attend lectures, and, depending on the rotation, gain hands-on experience in facilities like the MOST Lab.
Venue: Wills Eye Hospital, Philadelphia, USA
Duration: 30 - 60 days
Level: Intermediate
Cost: 1500 USD for 1 month (+250 USD for an additional 1 month)
This program is an exceptional opportunity for international ophthalmologists seeking exposure to high-quality surgical education in a premier U.S. training institution.
Alcon Experience Academy - USA
The Alcon Experience Academy combines online and in-person training opportunities tailored for eye care professionals at all career levels. Participants gain access to a library of over 500 training videos, webcasts, and personalized learning paths covering a wide range of ophthalmic topics.
At Alcon Experience Centers, professionals can engage in hands-on training, including practical sessions with the latest Alcon surgical technologies and immersive experiences using the Fidelis™ VR Ophthalmic Surgical Simulator. These structured programs cover essential aspects of cataract surgery, from fundamental techniques to the management of complex cases.
Venue: Fort Worth, Texas, USA
Duration: 1-2 days
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Cost: Free upon approved application; participants are responsible for travel and accommodation expenses
HelpMeSee Simulation-Based Cataract Surgery Training
HelpMeSee offers a hands-on, simulation-based training program designed to help ophthalmologists master Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) and phacoemulsification. Using a cutting-edge VR Eye Surgery Simulator with lifelike haptic feedback, it creates a safe, realistic environment where you can build and fine-tune your surgical skills without any risk to patients.
The program combines guided instruction, interactive eLearning modules, and regular performance feedback to support your progress every step of the way, making sure you not only learn the techniques but truly gain the confidence to use them in real life.
Venues:
HelpMeSee SimLab, Jersey City, USA
University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, USA
University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), Chicago, USA
Instituto Mexicano de Oftalmologia (IMO), Santiago de Querétaro, Qro.,Mexico
Visualiza, Cuidad, Guatemala
Duration: 4–5 days, depending on the course selected
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: €1,500–€5,000 per course, varying by location and course type.
University of Toronto Cataract Surgery Simulation Course
Location: Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Canada
Audience: Residents and fellows (including international)
Highlights:
Conference Chair - Prof. Ike Ahmed
Theoretical course on IOL selection, biometry and case discussion
One-day CME-accredited
Phaco Training in South America
Phaco Training Center – Fundación Visión, Paraguay
In collaboration with ZEISS and CBM, this center in Asunción offers hands-on training in phacoemulsification techniques. Equipped with modern surgical microscopes and phaco systems, it provides:
Practical Experience: Opportunities to perform surgeries under expert supervision.
Regional Accessibility: Open to ophthalmologists from across South America.
This center focuses on delivering state-of-the-art surgical education in a real-world clinical setting.
Alcon Experience Academy - South America
The Alcon Experience Academy is designed to support eye care professionals throughout their careers with a mix of online and in-person learning. With access to over 500 training videos, webcasts, and personalized learning plans, it covers a wide range of topics in ophthalmology.
At the Alcon Experience Centers, you can get hands-on experience with the latest surgical tools and practice using the Fidelis™ VR Ophthalmic Surgical Simulator. The training programs are thoughtfully structured, guiding you through everything from the basics of cataract surgery to handling more challenging cases with confidence.
Venue:
São Paulo, Brazil
Bogotá, Colombia
Duration: 1-2 days
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Cost: Free upon approved application; participants are responsible for travel and accommodation expenses
Cataract Training in Africa
Medical Training – Eye Care Surgical Training Association
Medical Training, managed by Egyptian for Medical Services, is a specialized Eye Care Surgical Training Association based in Cairo, Egypt, dedicated to enhancing the surgical skills of ophthalmologists through personalized, hands-on training. The center offers one-on-one courses tailored to each trainee's individual needs, ensuring in-depth learning in a professional clinical setting.
The programs are ideal for ophthalmologists seeking to refine their expertise in procedures such as phacoemulsification, LASIK, vitrectomy, keratoplasty, and oculoplastic surgery.
Venue: Al Iman Medical Center, Cairo, Egypt
Duration: Varies by course (typically 1–4 weeks)
Level: Practicing ophthalmologists or final-year residents
Cost: Paid courses (contact for details)
CBM Ophthalmologist Training Program
CBM (Christian Blind Mission) offers a comprehensive scholarship program aimed at training ophthalmologists in sub-Saharan Africa to address the critical shortage of eye care professionals in underserved regions.
The program provides full scholarships for postgraduate ophthalmology degrees, covering tuition, stipends, relocation costs, medical insurance, conference attendance, and surgical instruments.
Venue: Various accredited institutions across Africa
Duration: Typically 3–4 years (depending on the institution)
Level: Postgraduate (Ophthalmology Residency)
Cost: Fully funded
Applicants must be residents of eligible African countries (e.g., Benin, Cameroon, DR Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia), have secured admission to a recognized ophthalmology residency program, and commit to serving in underserved communities upon completion.
SEE International – MSICS
SEE International offers a Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) training program in Accra, Ghana. This hands-on course is designed for ophthalmologists who have completed the Level 1 training and seek to enhance their surgical skills in a real-world setting.
Under the mentorship of experienced faculty, participants engage in supervised surgeries.
Venue: Save the Nation Sight, 25 Nii Torgbor Ave, Accra, Ghana
Duration: Flexible (typically 1 month)
Level: Intermediate (completion of Level 1 required)
Cost: Not publicly listed; inquire directly for details
During the training, participants perform multiple sight-restoring surgeries under expert supervision. For instance, in a previous session, a trainee assisted in over 100 surgeries, significantly enhancing their proficiency in MSICS.
Phacohub Academy
Phacohub Academy in Egypt offers a highly specialized training program focused on phacoemulsification. Its goal is to equip ophthalmologists and residents with both fundamental knowledge and advanced surgical proficiency. The curriculum blends theoretical insights with real-time surgical exposure and hands-on practice.
Venue: Phacohub Academy, Egypt
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: Not publicly listed
HelpMeSee Simulation-Based Cataract Surgery Training
HelpMeSee offers a hands-on, realistic training experience that helps ophthalmologists build confidence in Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) and phacoemulsification. Using a state-of-the-art VR Eye Surgery Simulator with haptic feedback, the program lets you practice and improve your skills in a safe, no-risk environment that feels close to the real thing.
The training includes a mix of instructor-led sessions, easy-to-follow online modules, and regular feedback to make sure you’re truly learning and improving. It’s designed to support you every step of the way as you grow your surgical abilities.
Venues: Polyclinique Ilafy, Antananarivo, Madagascar
Duration: 4–5 days, depending on the course selected
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: €1,500–€5,000 per course, varying by location and course type.
Courses for Cataract Surgery in Asia
Istanbul Phaco Course
The Istanbul Phaco Course offers specialized training in phacoemulsification for cataract surgery, combining hands-on practice, simulation, dry lab, live surgery, and lectures to improve surgical skills. The course is conducted in English and French, with a maximum of 10 participants to ensure personalized learning.
Venue: TODEM - Turkish Ophthalmological Society Training Center, Istanbul, Turkey
Duration: 36 hours
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Cost: €3,500 (includes accommodation, transfers, meals, and course materials)
CUHK Ophthalmic Micro-Surgical Training Program
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) offers a comprehensive Ophthalmic Microsurgical Training Programme designed to enhance surgical skills in ophthalmology. The program combines theoretical lectures with hands-on practice using the Eyesi Surgical Simulator System and pig eye wet labs.
Participants learn basic microsurgical techniques, instrument handling, and complication management in a controlled environment.
Venue: CUHK Ophthalmic Microsurgical Training Centre, Hong Kong
Duration: Varies by course; typically short-term modules
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: Not publicly listed
Susrut Eye Foundation & Research Centre Cataract Surgical Training
Susrut Eye Foundation & Research Centre in Kolkata, India, offers structured cataract surgical training programs, including phacoemulsification and Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS). Courses range from beginner to advanced levels, providing hands-on experience under the supervision of experienced cataract surgeons.
Venue: Susrut Eye Foundation & Research Centre, Kolkata, India
Duration: Varies by course; options include 6, 12, 24, and 48-day programs
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Cost: Not publicly listed
Aravind Eye Care System
Aravind Eye Care System offers comprehensive training programs in cataract surgery, including Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) and phacoemulsification. The programs combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on surgical experience under expert supervision.
Venue: Aravind Eye Hospitals across India
Duration: 4 weeks (MSICS); varies for phacoemulsification courses
Level: Advanced
Cost MSICS:
For Indian and Nepal Candidates - INR 47,200
For International Candidates - USD 1,180
Cost phaco:
For Indian and Nepal Candidates - INR 70,800
For International Candidates - USD 1,770
Mahendra Eye Institute Phacoemulsification Training
Mahendra Eye Institute offers personalized phacoemulsification training programs with a step-by-step approach. Trainees receive one-on-one guidance from experienced ophthalmic surgeons and perform surgeries using advanced equipment.
Venue: Mahendra Eye Institute, Kanpur, India
Duration:
2 weeks: 30 surgeries
3 weeks: 45 surgeries
4 weeks: 60 surgeries
6 weeks: 100 surgeries
8 weeks: 130 surgeries
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: Not publicly listed
Nandadeep Eye Hospital Phaco and SICS Training
Nandadeep Eye Hospital offers short-term training programs in phacoemulsification and MSICS, providing hands-on surgical experience and wet lab training. The programs are tailored to individual learning needs and supervised by experienced surgeons.
Venue: Nandadeep Eye Hospital, Sangli, Maharashtra, India
Duration: 3–6 weeks
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: Not publicly listed
Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital Hands-On Phaco Training
An advanced course focusing on techniques like Phakonit (0.9 mm incision cataract removal). Participants receive personalized training to refine their surgical skills.
Venue: Dr. Agarwal’s Eye Hospital, Chennai, India
Duration: 1-2 Weeks
Level: Advanced
Cost: Not publicly listed
SEE International – MSICS
SEE International offers a Level 2 Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) training program in India. This hands-on course is designed for ophthalmologists who have completed the Level 1 training and seek to enhance their surgical skills in a real-world setting. Under the mentorship of experienced faculty, participants engage in supervised surgeries.
Venue:
Siliguri, India
Kolkata, India
Duration: Flexible (typically 1 month)
Level: Intermediate (completion of Level 1 required)
Cost: Not publicly listed; inquire directly for details
Alcon Experience Academy - Asia
The Alcon Experience Academy helps eye care professionals grow at every stage of their journey, offering a mix of online and in-person learning. With over 500 training videos, webcasts, and tailored learning paths, it covers a wide range of topics in a practical, approachable way.
At Alcon Experience Centers, you’ll get valuable hands-on experience with the latest surgical tools and the Fidelis™ VR Ophthalmic Surgical Simulator. The training is structured to build your skills step by step, from mastering the fundamentals of cataract surgery to confidently managing complex cases.
Venue:
Tokyo, Japan
Osaka, Japan
Beijing, China
Duration: 1-2 days
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Cost: Free upon approved application; participants are responsible for travel and accommodation expenses
HelpMeSee Simulation-Based Cataract Surgery Training
HelpMeSee offers a simulation-based training program to help ophthalmologists get hands-on experience with Manual Small Incision Cataract Surgery (MSICS) and phaco. With its advanced VR Eye Surgery Simulator and lifelike haptic feedback, you can practice and build your skills in a safe, risk-free setting that closely mimics real surgery.
The program combines expert-led sessions, engaging online learning, and personalized feedback to guide your progress. It’s a supportive, practical way to gain confidence and sharpen your surgical technique—whether you're just starting or looking to improve.
Venues:
HMS Vision Private Limited, Mumbai, India
Aravind Eye Hospital, Madurai, India
L V Prasad Eye Institute,
Duration: 4–5 days, depending on the course selected
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Cost: €1,500–€5,000 per course, varying by location and course type.
RELATED: Learning Phacoemulsification 101
Cataract Training Courses in Australia
Alcon Experience Academy - Australia
The Alcon Experience Academy is here to support eye care professionals no matter where they are in their careers. It offers a mix of online and in-person learning, with over 500 videos, webcasts, and personalized programs that make complex ophthalmic topics easier to understand and apply.
At Alcon Experience Centers, you get the chance to learn by doing—whether it’s practicing with the latest surgical equipment or stepping into realistic scenarios with the Fidelis™ VR Ophthalmic Surgical Simulator. The hands-on training is designed to help you build confidence, from learning the basics of cataract surgery to tackling more advanced, challenging cases.
Venue: Sydney (Australia)
Duration: 1-2 days
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Cost: Free upon approved application; participants are responsible for travel and accommodation expenses
Cataract Training During Conferences
ESCRS Annual Congress
Every year, the ESCRS Congress offers hands-on cataract surgery training through wet labs, surgical skills transfer courses, and live surgical demonstrations. Attendees gain exposure to the latest phacoemulsification techniques and premium IOL technologies.
Organizer: European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons
Training Highlights:
Surgical Skills Training Labs
Instructional Courses on advanced cataract techniques
Live surgery sessions and case discussions
AAO Annual Meeting
The AAO hosts high-quality cataract surgery training, live demonstrations, and expert-led courses. It emphasizes practical learning, technology updates, and surgical troubleshooting.
Organizer: American Academy of Ophthalmology
Training Highlights:
Skills Transfer Sessions in cataract surgery
Instruction courses and symposia
Live demonstrations and wet labs
ASCRS Annual Meeting
ASCRS provides extensive cataract-focused education, including Skills Transfer Labs, symposia, and case-based learning. It’s an ideal setting for mastering both basic and complex cataract techniques alongside global experts.
Organizer: American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
Training Highlights:
Over 300 hours of educational content
Skills Transfer Labs for hands-on practice
Courses on phacoemulsification and premium IOLs
DGII Annual Congress
The German Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery features wet labs and workshops for cataract and IOL techniques. It caters to German-speaking ophthalmologists and offers specialized hands-on cataract education.
Organizer: German Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
Language: German
Training Highlights:
Workshops on cataract and refractive procedures
Wet labs and simulation training
Presentations on latest surgical techniques
RCOphth Annual Congress
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists focuses on improving surgical training through sessions on cataract education, complication management, and surgical ergonomics. It also highlights innovations in residency training methods.
Organizer: Royal College of Ophthalmologists (UK)
Training Highlights:
Sessions on cataract surgery training methodologies
Discussions on high-volume surgery training
Application of human factor principles in surgery
RELATED: Ophthalmology Conferences in 2025
In Summary....
Whether through structured training, simulator-based labs, or hands-on workshops at major conferences, today's ophthalmologists have more opportunities than ever to master cataract surgery and elevate patient care. Investing in the right course, tailored to your level and goals, can be the turning point in your surgical journey.