Ophthalmic Knives Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Design (Straight Knives, Crescent Knives, Slit Knives, MVR Knives, Stab Knives, Others), By Product, By End Use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030

Ophthalmic Knives Market Size & Trends

The global ophthalmic knives market size was valued at USD 2.16 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.8% from 2024 to 2030. The market growth is attributed to factors such as increasing cases of ophthalmic diseases such as cataracts, retinal detachments, nearsightedness, the growing geriatric population, and the rising adoption of ophthalmic surgery. In addition, growing awareness about the importance of ophthalmic health and rising disposable income levels in developing economies are expected to propel market growth in the forecast period.

The increase in the prevalence of eye ailments such as cataracts, age-related macular degeneration, color blindness, astigmatism, glaucoma, and others is one of the significant factors driving the growth of this industry. Refractive errors, glaucoma, and cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment and blindness. According to the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, more than 1.1 billion individuals are living with vision loss, out of which more than 295 million people have moderate to severe visual impairments, and over 258 million people are living with mild visual impairments. Moreover, the increase in the growth of the senior population is more susceptible to age-related eye disorders, increasing demand for ophthalmic surgical procedures, driving the overall market growth. For instance, the number of people aged people with age 65 and 65+ may almost double, from one to 11 people to 1 in six people, by the end of 2050.

Continuous research and development activities supported by organizations and institutes worldwide are expected to deliver innovation in terms of product development and technology in this industry. The growing inclination of professionals towards the use of disposable instruments has also been contributing to the growth in demand for ophthalmic knives. In eye-related treatments, an increasing preference for minimally invasive surgeries is anticipated to develop an upsurge in demand for ophthalmic knives.

Design Insights

Straight knives segment dominated ophthalmic knives market with a revenue share of 27.3% in 2023. An increasing number of ophthalmic diseases and surgeries drives the growth. Straight knives are known for their vital precision and single-handed blade retraction. These knives possess superior sharpness and are used in a wide range of ophthalmic procedures, including cataract surgery, retinal surgery, and others, which increases the demand for these knives. Moreover, the metal blades in straight knives are disposable, which reduces the possibility of infection and increases their popularity over reusable blades.

MVR knives segment is anticipated to witness significant CAGR over the forecast period. MVR blades, which stand for micro vitreoretinal knives are mainly used to develop the side port during minor incision cataract surgery (SICS) or phacoemulsification (Phaco) cataract surgery of the eye. MVR knives have ultra-sharp blades that offer accurate and well-controlled incisions. MVR knives are typically made from high-quality, durable materials that maintain sharpness and effectiveness over multiple uses. Their high-quality design and performance make them an essential tool in vitreoretinal procedures. Furthermore, an increase in ophthalmic surgery and advancements in MVR knives are expected to drive segment growth.

Product Insights

Reusable ophthalmic knives dominated the global industry in 2023. The expansion of surgical facilities, growth in aging population, and unceasing increase in eye surgeries have driven growth for this segment in recent years. The reusable ophthalmic knives are often preferred for high durability and precision, which has increased adoption of this product by professionals and surgeons. Reusable ophthalmic knives offer consistent performance over multiple uses, which is vital for maintaining precision in delicate ophthalmic surgeries. In addition, the increasing demand from small-scale clinics and hospitals ends is driving segment growth as these knives minimize the amount of errors and wastage, which is both cost-effective and environmental friendly. This results in effective assistance for healthcare facilities in managing their budget and expenditures.

Single-use ophthalmic knives are anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR of over the forecast period. Single-use knives eliminate the risk of cross-contamination and infections between patients, enhancing overall surgical safety and patient outcomes. Growing inclination towards use of disposable products has driven growth for this segment in recent years. Disposable ophthalmic knives are easy to use and have less chance of getting damaged. Moreover, advances in materials science and manufacturing technologies have led to the development of high-performance single-use knives that offer precision and durability comparable to reusable options. These factors are likely to propel market growth during the forecast period.

End Use Insights

Hospitals dominated the global ophthalmic knives market in 2023. The rising cases of eye-related disorders, better healthcare infrastructure, and rising disposable income levels are the key growth factors for this segment. Many surgeries, including ophthalmic surgery, are often performed in hospitals as they are equipped with advanced surgical technologies and instruments essential for eye surgeries. Furthermore, hospitals are at the forefront of adopting and implementing new surgical techniques and innovations, including ophthalmic knives, driving the dominance of this sector. Moreover, the presence of government-based hospitals and insurance programs that cover several health expenses is also a significant factor driving segment growth.

Clinics segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. The growth of this segment is attributed to the increasing establishment of specialty clinics and growing inclination towards personalized treatments and assistance provided by small or specialty clinics instead of multi-specialty hospitals or large healthcare facilities with eye treatment departments. The growth in the geriatric population is a significant factor driving segment growth, as the aging population is more susceptible to eye-related diseases and often requires early diagnosis treatments. In addition, clinics offer a wide range of eye services, from treatments for routine procedures to complex surgeries necessitating various ophthalmic instruments. Furthermore, innovations in ophthalmic surgical technology, such as the development of advanced laser systems, improved imaging techniques, and the availability of precision-based surgical knives, are likely to enhance the effectiveness and safety of ophthalmic procedures.

Regional Insights

North America ophthalmic knives market dominated the global industry and accounted for a revenue share of 37.1%. The dominance of the region is attributed to the increasing prevalence of eye-related disorders in the region, unceasing growth in the aging population, availability of well-developed healthcare facilities, and high adoption of minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries. Mexico, the second most populous country in this region, is estimated to register 1.27 million cases of glaucoma by the end of 2040. Furthermore, key market players, highly skilled ophthalmologists, high healthcare reimbursement policies, and government initiatives in countries such as the U.S. and Canada drive regional growth.

U.S. Ophthalmic Knives Market Trends

U.S. ophthalmic knives market dominated the regional industry in 2023. The growth of this market is driven by robust healthcare infrastructure, the presence of significant market players, and the high adoption of technologies and tools, including ophthalmic knives. The growing incidence of eye-related disease and increasing ophthalmic surgery in the region contribute to the growth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common type of eye problems that cause blindness and low vision in the U.S. are mainly age age-related diseases. The rise in surgical procedures, including Micro invasive Glaucoma Surgeries (MIGS) and advancements in medical technologies, is further expected to drive growth.

Europe Ophthalmic Knives Market Trends

Europe ophthalmic knives market held a significant revenue share of global industry in 2023. Growth in the regional market is primarily driven by better healthcare infrastructure, the availability of highly skilled surgeons, and a growing geriatric population. According to Eurostat, the European Union is expected to be home to nearly half a million centenarians by 2050. Rising awareness about the significance of eye health and a growing preference for minimally invasive surgical procedures are some other key factors driving the market growth. Furthermore, the presence of advanced healthcare facilities coupled with growing disposable income levels and rising awareness about eye health is expected to drive market growth.

Germany ophthalmic knives market held significant revenue share of regional industry in 2023. The dominance in the region is attributed to the large population of older people who have higher risks of experiencing eye health issues, advancements in healthcare technology and tools, the presence of skilled professionals, the availability of health infrastructure, and increased awareness.

Asia Pacific Ophthalmic Knives Market Trends

Asia Pacific ophthalmic knives market is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR during the forecast period. The projected growth is attributed to multiple aspects such as the increasing prevalence of ophthalmic disorders, rising healthcare investment and adoption of minimally invasive surgeries, an increase in awareness regarding the severity of eye ailments, presence of multiple small clinics in cities and towns across various countries, and growing disposable income levels resulting in increased expenditure on health in the region. The presence of numerous key brands, the entry of various international industry participants in the region's ophthalmic healthcare market, and the growing economies of countries such as India and China are expected to develop positive growth in this market in the coming years.

China ophthalmic knives market is anticipated to experience a noteworthy CAGR from 2024 to 2030. This is attributed to several factors, such as the large population with an age over 60 and above, the growing prevalence of eye ailments, and the increasing need for ophthalmic surgeries. According to the World Bank Group, the population aged 65 and above accounts for 14% of the total population in China. These aspects play a vital role in the anticipated growth of this industry in the country.

Key Ophthalmic Knives Company Insights

Some of the key companies in the ophthalmic knives marketinclude, Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, Diamatrix LTD, Teleflex Incorporated and others. To address the growing competition in the industry, key market participants are adopting strategies such as enhanced R&D activities, new product developments, adoption of technology advancements, and innovation.

• Alcon is a multinational company operating in the eye healthcare technology industry. It offers a range of solutions, including contact lenses, eye care products, cataract treatments for patients, tools, and equipment related to cataract surgery, refractive surgery, vitreoretinal surgery, professional resources, and more for eye care professionals.

• Bausch & Lomb is one of the key participants in the ophthalmic technology industry. The company offers products such as contact lenses, lens care, over-the-counter eye care, supplements, pharmaceuticals, eye beauty products, surgical products, optical accessories, and more.

Recent Developments

• In July 2024, Alcon Vision LLC completed the acquisition of BELKIN Vision. This acquisition aims to bring BELKIN Vision's Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT) technology into Alcon's portfolio, enhancing its glaucoma treatment options with a new first-line therapy. European Union and UK approve the DSLT technology and has received clearance from The Food and Drug Administration.

• In September 2023, BVI Acquired Medical Mix to expand its medical footprint across Europe. Medical Mix is known for its expertise and product offerings in medical devices for ophthalmic surgery. The acquisition aims to strengthen BVI’s market position and broaden its reach across European markets, further solidifying its medical and surgical device industry role.

• In May 2023, Bausch + Lomb and Novaliq announced that the FDA had approved their new medical solution, MIEBO (Perfluorohexyloctane Ophthalmic Solution), for treating the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. MIEBO is the first and only prescription eye drop approved for dry eye disease that specifically addresses tear evaporation.

Ophthalmic Knives Market Report Scope

Global Ophthalmic Knives Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the ophthalmic knives market report based on design, product, end use, and region.

• Design Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Straight knives

  • Crescent knives

  • Slit knives

  • MVR knives

  • Stab knives

  • Others

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Reusable ophthalmic knives

  • Single-use ophthalmic knives

• End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Hospitals

  • ASCs

  • Clinics

• Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada

    • Mexico

  • Europe

    • UK

    • Germany

    • France

    • Italy

    • Spain

    • Denmark

    • Sweden

    • Norway

  • Asia Pacific

    • Japan

    • China

    • India

    • Australia

    • South Korea

    • Thailand

  • Latin America

    • Brazil

    • Argentina

  • Middle East & Africa

    • South Africa

    • Saudi Arabia

    • UAE

    • Kuwait