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Add to CartGlobal Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Product;
Cohesive OVDs, Visco-Adaptive, Combination, and Dispersive OVDsBy Material Used;
Sodium Hyaluronate, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Methyl CelluloseBy Application;
Cataract Surgery, Glaucoma Surgery, Corneal Transplantation, and Vitreoretinal SurgeryBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Overview
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market (USD Million)
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market was valued at USD 2,881.88 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 3,816.68 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.1%.
Global Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 4.1 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 4.1 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 2,881.88 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 3,816.68 Million |
| Market Concentration | High |
| Report Pages | 384 |
Major Players
- Alcon (Novartis AG)
- Bausch + Lomb (Valeant Pharmaceuticals International)
- Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
- Johnson & Johnson Vision
- Rayner Intraocular Lenses Limited
- Ocular Systems, Inc.
- CIMA Technology Inc.
- Bohus BioTech AB
- Precision Lens
- Hyaltech Ltd.
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Global Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
The ophthalmic viscoelastic devices (OVD) market is experiencing sustained growth, driven by the increasing frequency of eye surgeries such as cataract procedures. These devices are essential in maintaining intraocular space, safeguarding delicate eye tissues, and enhancing surgical precision, making them a standard tool in ophthalmic practices worldwide.
Technological Advancements in OVDs
Recent advancements in OVD technology have introduced superior formulations with improved viscoelastic properties and enhanced biocompatibility. Nearly 45% of new launches emphasize surgeon-friendly features that streamline procedures and improve patient safety.
Healthcare Infrastructure and Access
The growing availability of specialized surgical centers and broader access to ophthalmic care are fueling adoption. Today, more than 50% of surgical facilities integrate OVDs into routine practices, highlighting their role in ensuring surgical efficacy.
Industry Momentum and Outlook
The market outlook remains strong, bolstered by increasing product innovation, strategic investments, and greater awareness among healthcare professionals. With rising procedural volumes and expanding applications, OVDs are set to remain integral to the future of ophthalmic surgery.
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Recent Developments
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In April 2024, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG finalized the acquisition of the Dutch Ophthalmic Research Center (D.O.R.C.), marking a significant step in expanding its ophthalmic capabilities. This strategic integration is set to enhance product development and accelerate innovation across surgical and diagnostic solutions in the ophthalmic devices sector. By combining technological expertise and global reach, the partnership aims to deliver advanced solutions that better meet the evolving needs of eye care professionals and patients worldwide.
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In June 2024, Alcon secured FDA clearance for its UNITY Vitreoretinal Cataract System (VCS) and UNITY Cataract System (CS)—the first launches under its new Unity portfolio. This regulatory achievement represents a pivotal advancement in Alcon's eye care strategy, expanding its footprint in the cataract surgery market. The approved systems are designed to deliver enhanced precision and efficiency, offering next-generation solutions that address critical needs in modern cataract procedures.
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the ophthalmic viscoelastic devices (ovd) market has been segmented by Product, Material used, application, and geography.
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, Segmentation by Product
The Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market has been segmented by Product into Cohesive OVDs and Dispersive OVDs.
Cohesive OVDs
Cohesive ophthalmic viscoelastic devices represent the largest product segment in the global market, with an estimated 40% share. These devices are ideal for maintaining anterior chamber stability during cataract and other intraocular surgeries. Their easy removal after surgery and excellent space-maintaining characteristics make them a top choice among ophthalmic surgeons. The increasing global incidence of cataracts and growing surgical volumes continue to boost demand for cohesive OVDs.
Dispersive OVDs
Dispersive OVDs account for roughly 30% of market share and are primarily used to coat and protect delicate intraocular structures. Their high retention and ability to shield the corneal endothelium make them valuable in procedures with elevated risks of tissue damage. As surgical precision and patient safety become top priorities, the role of dispersive OVDs remains critical, especially in advanced and complex surgical cases.
Visco-Adaptive OVDs
Holding about 15% of the market, visco-adaptive OVDs combine the features of both cohesive and dispersive products. These advanced formulations dynamically respond to intraocular pressure changes, offering adaptability during surgery. Their multifunctionality makes them well-suited for challenging cases, although higher costs may limit broader adoption in resource-constrained healthcare settings.
Combination OVDs
Combination OVDs make up the final 15% of the global market. These dual-function products provide the benefits of cohesive and dispersive OVDs in one procedure, streamlining the surgical process. As efficiency becomes increasingly important in ophthalmic practices, combination OVDs are gaining traction in surgical centers seeking to reduce operative time without compromising patient outcomes.
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, Segmentation by Material used
The Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market has been segmented by Material used into Sodium Hyaluronate, Chondroitin Sulfate, and Methyl Cellulose.
Sodium Hyaluronate
Sodium hyaluronate leads the ophthalmic viscoelastic devices market by material, commanding around 60% of the total share. Known for its high viscosity, transparency, and excellent tissue compatibility, this material is widely used in cataract and anterior segment surgeries. Its ability to maintain anterior chamber depth and facilitate safe instrument maneuvering makes it the preferred choice among ophthalmic surgeons globally.
Chondroitin Sulfate
Chondroitin sulfate holds approximately 25% of the market and is often combined with sodium hyaluronate to improve OVD dispersive properties. It offers excellent endothelial protection and stability, especially in cases where prolonged tissue exposure is expected. The increasing preference for combination viscoelastic solutions is contributing to the sustained demand for chondroitin-based materials in ophthalmic applications.
Methyl Cellulose
Methyl cellulose comprises about 15% of the market and serves as a practical solution in cost-sensitive environments. Though less viscoelastic than its counterparts, it provides sufficient space maintenance and visibility during procedures such as intraocular lens implantation. Its affordability and accessibility make it a staple in government-funded and high-volume eye care programs, particularly in emerging economies.
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, Segmentation by Application
The Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market has been segmented by Application into Cataract Surgery, Glaucoma Surgery, Corneal Transplantation, and Vitreoretinal Surgery.
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery dominates the ophthalmic viscoelastic devices market by application, comprising around 60% of the total share. OVDs are critical for maintaining space within the anterior chamber, protecting intraocular structures, and enabling safe intraocular lens implantation. The rising global burden of cataracts, coupled with the expansion of cataract treatment programs, especially in emerging economies, continues to drive strong demand in this segment.
Glaucoma Surgery
Glaucoma surgery accounts for nearly 15% of the market. OVDs play a vital role in procedures such as trabeculectomy by stabilizing intraocular structures and managing fluid dynamics. The growing prevalence of glaucoma, particularly among the elderly, along with an increased emphasis on early surgical intervention, is contributing to the segment’s gradual but steady expansion.
Corneal Transplantation
Corneal transplantation holds approximately 10% of the market share. During procedures like Descemet’s stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSEK) and penetrating keratoplasty, OVDs are essential in maintaining tissue positioning and ensuring optical clarity. Though performed less frequently than cataract or glaucoma surgeries, the precision required in corneal transplants highlights the importance of high-performance viscoelastic devices.
Vitreoretinal Surgery
Vitreoretinal surgery makes up around 15% of the global market. These surgeries involve delicate manipulation of the posterior segment of the eye, often in cases of retinal detachment or macular disorders. OVDs provide structural support and tissue protection during these complex procedures. With rising cases of diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, demand for OVDs in vitreoretinal applications is projected to grow steadily.
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America
North America dominates the ophthalmic viscoelastic devices market, holding an estimated 35% share. This leadership position is attributed to the region’s high volume of ophthalmic procedures, particularly cataract and vitreoretinal surgeries. Advanced healthcare facilities, a large geriatric population, and early adoption of surgical technologies continue to drive steady market growth through the 2021–2031 timeline.
Europe
Europe accounts for around 25% of the global OVD market. The region benefits from strong public healthcare systems and consistent demand for premium surgical materials. Leading countries such as Germany, the UK, and France are seeing increased uptake of OVDs due to a growing number of aging patients and enhanced clinical outcomes driven by viscoelastic innovations.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific contributes nearly 20% of the market and is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period. Rapid urbanization, increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, and heightened awareness of ophthalmic diseases are the main drivers. Local manufacturing, government subsidies, and expanding access to cataract and glaucoma surgeries make the region a key growth hub for OVDs.
Middle East & Africa and Latin America
Combined, the Middle East & Africa and Latin America hold the remaining 20% share. Market expansion in these regions is supported by improving medical facilities, growing demand for affordable eye care, and targeted public health campaigns. While market maturity is still developing, initiatives to increase surgical access and expand ophthalmic services are helping to accelerate growth.
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Comprehensive Market Impact Matrix
This matrix outlines how core market forces—Drivers, Restraints, and Opportunities—affect key business dimensions including Growth, Competition, Customer Behavior, Regulation, and Innovation.
| Market Forces ↓ / Impact Areas → | Market Growth Rate | Competitive Landscape | Customer Behavior | Regulatory Influence | Innovation Potential |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drivers | High impact (e.g., tech adoption, rising demand) | Encourages new entrants and fosters expansion | Increases usage and enhances demand elasticity | Often aligns with progressive policy trends | Fuels R&D initiatives and product development |
| Restraints | Slows growth (e.g., high costs, supply chain issues) | Raises entry barriers and may drive market consolidation | Deters consumption due to friction or low awareness | Introduces compliance hurdles and regulatory risks | Limits innovation appetite and risk tolerance |
| Opportunities | Unlocks new segments or untapped geographies | Creates white space for innovation and M&A | Opens new use cases and shifts consumer preferences | Policy shifts may offer strategic advantages | Sparks disruptive innovation and strategic alliances |
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers:
- Growing elderly population and cataract prevalence
- Advancements in ophthalmic surgical technologies
- Increased demand for minimally invasive surgeries
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Rising awareness of eye health - The growing awareness of eye health plays a crucial role in the expansion of the ophthalmic viscoelastic devices (OVD) market. This surge in awareness is largely driven by increased public health campaigns, improved access to eye care services, and the rising occurrence of age-related eye disorders like cataracts. As individuals become more informed about the importance of maintaining good vision, the demand for treatments such as cataract surgeries has steadily increased. With a higher understanding of how modern medical devices, including OVDs, contribute to safer and more effective surgeries, patients are more likely to seek timely interventions.
This rising awareness is also linked to the growing elderly population, which faces a higher risk of developing vision problems. As people age, conditions like cataracts become more prevalent, prompting an uptick in the use of ophthalmic technologies such as OVDs, which help maintain anterior chamber stability during surgeries. Furthermore, technology-driven solutions and the increasing prevalence of digital platforms have empowered individuals to learn more about the risks of poor eye health and the benefits of preventive measures, including cataract surgery.
Restraints:
- High cost of advanced OVD formulations
- Risk of surgical complications and side effects
- Limited reimbursement in certain regions
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Competition from alternative surgical devices - One of the key factors restraining the growth of the ophthalmic viscoelastic devices (OVD) market is the rising adoption of alternative surgical technologies. Innovative tools such as femtosecond lasers, intraoperative imaging systems, and next-generation phacoemulsification units are reshaping ophthalmic surgeries by enhancing precision and reducing procedural complexity. As these advanced devices gain traction among eye surgeons, traditional OVDs are increasingly being sidelined in certain clinical applications.
The growing preference for alternative technologies is driven by their ability to deliver superior surgical outcomes, minimize complications, and shorten recovery times. Many of these systems also integrate with digital platforms to improve surgical planning and real-time decision-making. As a result, healthcare providers are investing in all-in-one solutions that enhance workflow efficiency and offer cost benefits over standalone viscoelastic agents, which may be perceived as less essential in modern surgical settings.
These developments present a growing challenge for OVD manufacturers, who must now compete against a rising wave of technologically advanced alternatives. To stay relevant, companies are working to improve product formulations and offer added clinical value. However, without clear differentiation or measurable advantages over emerging technologies, market penetration for OVDs may continue to face headwinds in the evolving ophthalmic surgical landscape.
Opportunities:
- Innovation in biocompatible OVD formulations
- Expansion in emerging healthcare markets
- Rising demand for premium cataract surgeries
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Customization of OVDs for specific surgeries - The growing trend toward personalization in ophthalmic procedures is creating a promising opportunity for the development of customized ophthalmic viscoelastic devices (OVDs). With surgical techniques becoming more specialized across applications such as cataract removal, retinal repair, and glaucoma interventions, there is an increasing need for viscoelastic materials that are engineered to meet the specific demands of each procedure. By adjusting properties like viscosity, cohesiveness, and dispersiveness, manufacturers can deliver enhanced control, reduced trauma, and improved safety during surgeries.
Surgeons are looking for OVDs that offer precision performance aligned with particular surgical tasks. For instance, dispersive OVDs are often preferred for protecting the corneal endothelium, while cohesive OVDs are more effective for maintaining chamber stability during intraocular lens implantation. The ability to select a product that optimally supports the procedural goal not only improves surgical outcomes but also fosters greater confidence and loyalty among ophthalmologists using these specialized devices.
Customization also opens up strategic advantages for manufacturers aiming to differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape. Companies that actively engage with surgeons to develop procedure-specific viscoelastic solutions can better address niche clinical needs, such as those in pediatric or complex glaucoma surgeries. This collaborative approach not only drives innovation but also allows brands to command premium positioning in the market by delivering tailored performance where standard OVDs may fall short.
As the healthcare industry moves toward more precise and individualized treatment approaches, the demand for bespoke OVD formulations is expected to accelerate. Manufacturers that invest in targeted research and development (R&D) and leverage surgeon feedback to design advanced, application-specific viscoelastic agents are well-positioned to tap into new revenue streams. This trend aligns with the broader shift toward personalized medicine and offers substantial potential for growth within the ophthalmic surgical ecosystem.
Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market include:
- Altacor
- Bausch Health Companies Inc.
- Bohus Biotech AB
- Carl Zeiss Meditec
- Eyekon Medical
- Haohai Biological
- Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc.
- Novartis AG
- Rumex International Co
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Market Share Analysis
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Product
- Market Snapshot, By Material Used
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market Dynamics
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Growing elderly population and cataract prevalence
- Advancements in ophthalmic surgical technologies
- Increased demand for minimally invasive surgeries
- Rising awareness of eye health
- Restraints
- High cost of advanced OVD formulations
- Risk of surgical complications and side effects
- Limited reimbursement in certain regions
- Competition from alternative surgical devices
- Opportunities
- Innovation in biocompatible OVD formulations
- Expansion in emerging healthcare markets
- Rising demand for premium cataract surgeries
- Customization of OVDs for specific surgeries
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, By Product, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Cohesive OVDs
- Visco-Adaptive
- Combination
- Dispersive OVDs
- Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, By Material Used, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Sodium Hyaluronate
- Chondroitin Sulfate
- Methyl Cellulose
- Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Cataract Surgery
- Glaucoma Surgery
- Corneal Transplantation
- Vitreoretinal Surgery
- Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Ophthalmic Viscoelastic Devices (Ovd) Market, By Product, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Altacor
- Bausch Health Companies Inc.
- Bohus Biotech AB
- Carl Zeiss Meditec
- Eyekon Medical
- Haohai Biological
- Johnson & Johnson Services, Inc.
- Novartis AG
- Rumex International Co
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market