How much does SMILE LASIK cost in Korea?

SMILE LASIK in Korea typically costs around 2,500,000~3,000,000 KRW, though the exact price varies by clinic, your case, and what's included. Seoul prices reflect surgeon experience, technique, and aftercare — always confirm whether anesthesia, follow-ups, and post-op care are bundled in your quote. Because every body and goal is different, your final cost can only be confirmed at an in-person or video consultation with a board-certified doctor.

What is the recovery time for SMILE LASIK?

Most patients need about 1 days of downtime for SMILE LASIK before returning to daily activities. Initial swelling and bruising usually peak in the first few days, then settle gradually, while full results can take several weeks to months to show. Recovery depends on the technique used and your individual healing, so follow your surgeon's aftercare plan and confirm your personal timeline with the clinic.

Is SMILE LASIK painful, and what kind of anesthesia is used?

SMILE LASIK is generally well-tolerated, with anesthesia chosen to keep you comfortable throughout. Depending on the procedure, Korean clinics use local anesthesia, sedation, or general anesthesia, and most discomfort afterward is managed with prescribed medication. Pain tolerance is personal, so discuss anesthesia options and pain management with a board-certified anesthesiologist or surgeon before your treatment.

How do I choose the right clinic for SMILE LASIK in Korea?

Choose a clinic with board-certified specialists, transparent pricing, and strong patient reviews. On K-Dia, 2 clinics offer SMILE LASIK, so you can compare doctor credentials, before-and-after results, and English-language support side by side. Verify the surgeon's specialty board certification, ask about complication rates and revision policies, and book a consultation before committing — this is a medical decision, not just a price comparison.

Can foreigners get SMILE LASIK done in Korea?

Yes — Korea is a top destination for international patients seeking SMILE LASIK. Many Seoul clinics offer English, Chinese, and Japanese interpretation, medical tourism coordinators, and help with scheduling around your trip. Plan for at least 1 days of recovery before flying, bring your medical history, and consult a board-certified doctor to confirm you're a suitable candidate and to arrange follow-up care.

LASIK/LASEK

SMILE LASIK

Price Range

₩2,500,000~₩3,000,000 (≈ $1,800–$2,200)

Final price may vary after consultation

Duration

30min

Recovery

1days

Anesthesia

Anesthesia eye drops

Effect Duration

Semi-permanent (possibility of myopia regression)

Pain Level

Mild

Overview

SMILE LASIK is a surgery that corrects vision through a minimal incision of approximately 2-4mm, without a large incision on the corneal surface. Compared to traditional LASIK, it features a smaller corneal incision, which can reduce pain and the burden of dry eye syndrome, allowing for a quicker return to daily life. After confirming the individual's eye condition, including corneal thickness, vision, and astigmatism, through precise examinations, the surgery is performed on a customized basis. Key Features Vision correction with a minimal incision method Fast recovery and return to daily life Reduced burden of pain and dry eye syndrome Correction of myopia and astigmatism possible Customized surgery through individual precise examinations

Related Ongoing Events

Raum Smile Eye Clinic Smart Smile LASIK

₩1,800,000 (≈ $1,290)라움스마일안과

No More Daily Life the Next Day, New Smile LASIK Special Offer

₩2,200,000 (≈ $1,580)하늘안과

Z8 One-day LASIK

₩1,490,000 (≈ $1,070)강남아이원스안과

LASIK/LASEK Event Commemorating the 2021 Presidential Commendation and 2023 Ministry of the Interior and Safety Commendation

49%₩900,000 (≈ $650)하늘안과

Silk Smile LASIK, as smooth as silk

₩3,500,000 (≈ $2,500)밝은성모안과

Gangnam Eye One's Eye Clinic Clear Smile LASIK

₩2,090,000 (≈ $1,500)강남아이원스안과

Recommended For

Those who find wearing glasses or contact lenses uncomfortable and want correction
People who need to live without glasses due to the nature of their exercise or occupation
Individuals aged 18 or older whose vision has stabilized over the past year

Procedure Steps

1
Precision inspection
We examine about 20 things, including corneal thickness, topography, and pupil size.
2
Decision on surgical method
Select the method (LASIK, LASEK, SMILE, ICL) suitable for your eye condition.
3
Laser correction
Refractive errors are corrected with a laser after topical anesthesia.
4
Observation of progress
Recovery is confirmed through checkups the next day, one week, and one month.

Pros

Strong against external impact due to the absence of a corneal flap
Lower risk of dry eyes compared to LASIK
Quick recovery allows for normal daily activities the next day.

Things to Consider

The cost is relatively higher than LASIK or LASEK.
Correction is limited under certain conditions, such as high raw material.
The surgeon's skill level has a significant impact.

Side Effects & Precautions

Please stop wearing soft lenses for 1 week (hard lenses for 2-3 weeks) before surgery.
Avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, and strenuous exercise for one month after surgery.
Manage dryness with artificial tears and get regular checkups.

This is general guidance; details vary by individual and clinic. Always consult a medical specialist.

Hospitals offering this procedure

Lowest

₩2,500,000 (≈ $1,800)

Average

₩2,500,000 (≈ $1,800)

Highest

₩3,000,000 (≈ $2,200)

Based on listed prices from 2 clinics

Local currency amounts are approximate, for reference only. All payments are in Korean won (KRW).

Raum Smile Ophthalmology

강남구₩2,500,000~₩2,900,000 (≈ $1,800–$2,100)

Clear Seoul Ophthalmology

서초구₩2,500,000~₩3,000,000 (≈ $1,800–$2,200)

Often Viewed Together

SmartNovaPro

₩4,000,000~₩4,500,000 (≈ $2,900–$3,200)

투데이LASEK

₩1,090,000~₩1,900,000 (≈ $780–$1,370)

SmileNova (Pro)

₩4,000,000~₩4,500,000 (≈ $2,900–$3,200)

스마트스마일LASIK

₩2,300,000~₩3,000,000 (≈ $1,650–$2,200)

실크LASIK

₩3,300,000~₩3,800,000 (≈ $2,400–$2,700)

클리어스마일LASIK

₩2,090,000~₩3,900,000 (≈ $1,500–$2,800)

LASEK

₩890,000~₩1,500,000 (≈ $640–$1,080)

아마리스레드 LASIK

₩990,000~₩1,790,000 (≈ $710–$1,290)

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