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LASIK in Korea: A Guide for International Patients in Gangnam, Seoul. Know your options first.
An independent guide to vision correction surgery for visitors considering LASIK in Seoul. HIGHST Urology Clinic does not perform LASIK or any eye surgery.
- Independent guide
- LASIK, LASEK, SMILE, ICL
- Eye-test checklist
- Tips for choosing a clinic
LASIK vs LASEK vs SMILE vs ICL: what is the difference?
Your eye surgeon recommends a method after measuring your eyes. This is a simplified overview.
| Method | How it works | Recovery feel | Often considered when |
|---|---|---|---|
| LASIK | A thin corneal flap is created, the cornea is reshaped by laser, and the flap is replaced | Vision often improves quickly | The cornea is thick enough and healthy |
| LASEK / PRK | The surface layer is removed and the cornea is reshaped; no flap | Slower and more uncomfortable at first | The cornea is thinner, or a flap is best avoided |
| SMILE | A small piece of tissue is removed through a small incision; no large flap | Often fairly quick | Suitable prescriptions, mainly short-sightedness |
| ICL (lens implant) | A thin lens is placed inside the eye; the cornea is not reshaped | Often quick, but it is intraocular surgery | High prescriptions or a cornea unsuitable for laser |
How does LASIK in Seoul usually work for visitors?
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Eye examination
Detailed tests measure your prescription, corneal thickness and shape, and eye health. You may be asked to stop wearing contact lenses for a period beforehand, as they can change the cornea's shape.
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Consultation
The ophthalmologist explains which method suits your eyes, the risks such as dry eye or glare, and whether surgery is advisable at all.
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Surgery day
Numbing drops are used and the laser part is usually short. You will need someone or a taxi to take you back, and you should rest your eyes.
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Follow-up
Check-ups usually follow in the days and weeks after surgery. Use the prescribed eye drops and ask when it is safe to fly, swim or wear eye make-up.
How do I choose a LASIK clinic in Gangnam?
Gangnam has many eye clinics. These questions help you compare them fairly.
- Is the surgeon a board-certified ophthalmologist?
- Are full eye tests done before any decision on surgery?
- Will they tell you honestly if you are not a good candidate?
- Do they explain the risks, including dry eye and night glare?
- Is a consultation available in English, or with an interpreter?
- Do you get a written, itemized quote that includes follow-up visits?
- Is there a plan for aftercare once you return home?
Frequently asked questions
Is LASIK in Korea safe for foreigners?
LASIK is a widely performed surgery, and Korea has many experienced eye clinics. Like any surgery, it carries risks such as dry eye, glare, halos or the need for further correction. Safety depends on proper pre-surgery testing, a qualified ophthalmologist and good aftercare. Choose a clinic that explains risks clearly in a language you understand.
How long should I stay in Seoul for LASIK?
It depends on the method and the clinic's follow-up schedule. You will need time for pre-surgery eye tests, the surgery itself and early check-ups afterwards. Some methods, such as LASEK, take longer to settle. Ask the clinic for a written timeline before you book flights, and do not cut follow-up visits short.
Can I fly home soon after LASIK?
Many people can fly within a short time after laser eye surgery, but this depends on your method and how your eyes are healing. Air in planes is dry, so lubricating drops are often recommended. Always ask your eye surgeon when it is safe to fly, and keep your prescribed drops in your hand luggage.
How much does LASIK cost in Korea?
Costs vary by clinic, method and the tests you need, so a fair comparison needs an eye examination first. Ask each clinic for a written, itemized quote that shows the tests, surgery, medicines and follow-up visits. Be careful with prices that look much lower than others and check what they leave out.
Who is not a good candidate for LASIK?
People with thin or irregular corneas, an unstable prescription, certain eye diseases, or some general health conditions may not be suitable. Pregnancy can also affect suitability. An ophthalmologist decides after testing. If LASIK is not right for you, alternatives such as LASEK or a lens implant may be discussed.
Does HIGHST Urology Clinic perform LASIK?
No. HIGHST Urology Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul is a urology clinic and does not perform LASIK or any eye surgery. This guide is independent, general information. If you are visiting Seoul and also need private STD testing or men's urology care in English, our coordinators can help on WhatsApp.
HIGHST Urology Clinic Gangnam
Address
14–15F, 655 Seolleung-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea
Gangnam-gu Office Station, Exit 2
Opening hours (KST)
Mon–Fri 09:30–18:30
Sat 09:30–15:30
Sun & public holidays closed
Contact
WhatsApp (English): +82 10-3487-1618
Clinic: +82 2-514-1415
In Seoul and need a urologist?
HIGHST Urology Clinic in Gangnam offers private STD testing and men's urology care in English.
Medical information on this page is general and does not replace a consultation. Timing, results and suitability vary by individual.