Cataract Surgery in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea — clear vision with the right lens
Cataract surgery replaces your clouded natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). With laser-assisted surgery and personalised lens consulting, it can also reduce dependence on glasses for distance, intermediate and near vision.
Board-certified ophthalmologist · Updated October 2026
What happens in cataract surgery and which lens should I choose?
In cataract surgery the cloudy natural lens is removed through a small incision and replaced with a clear intraocular lens (IOL). Monofocal lenses give sharp vision at one distance; multifocal, extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF) and toric lenses can reduce the need for glasses and correct astigmatism. At Apgujeong Eye Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea, board-certified ophthalmologists recommend a lens after measuring your eyes and discussing your lifestyle.
- Surgery time
- About 15–20 min / eye
- Anaesthesia
- Numbing drops
- Lens options
- Mono, EDOF, multifocal, toric
- Vision improves
- Within days
More than removing a cataract
A cataract is a gradual clouding of the eye’s natural lens, usually with age. It causes blurred or dim vision, glare and faded colours. Surgery is the only effective treatment, and it is one of the most commonly performed and successful operations in medicine.
Because the natural lens is replaced, cataract surgery is also an opportunity to correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. Choosing the right IOL for your eyes and daily activities is the most important decision — which is why we offer dedicated, customised lens consulting.
- Laser-assisted precision for selected cases
- Monofocal, EDOF, multifocal and toric IOL options
- Astigmatism correction during the same surgery
- Presbyopia options including PRESBYOND and VIVA ICL for suitable eyes
When should you consider cataract surgery?
Final eligibility is confirmed only after a full diagnostic exam with your surgeon.
Usually a good fit if you…
- Blurry or cloudy vision that glasses no longer fix
- Glare or halos, especially when driving at night
- Colours look faded or yellowish
- Frequent prescription changes due to lens clouding
- Cataract is affecting reading, driving or work
We may suggest another option if…
- The cataract is very mild and not affecting daily life yet
- You have uncontrolled eye inflammation or infection
- Other eye conditions need treating first (e.g. retina)
- You have unrealistic expectations about “perfect” glasses-free vision
- You cannot attend the follow-up visits
Your cataract surgery in Seoul
Examination
Cataract grading, biometry, corneal mapping and retina check.
Lens consulting
We match an IOL to your eyes, hobbies and work.
Surgery
About 15–20 minutes per eye with numbing drops.
Recovery
Vision improves within days; drops for several weeks.
Follow-up
Next-day and 1-week checks; second eye often a few days later.
Choosing your intraocular lens
A simplified guide — your surgeon will explain which lenses suit your eyes.
| Monofocal | EDOF | Multifocal | Toric | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance vision | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Intermediate (screens) | Glasses often needed | Good | Good | Depends on design |
| Near (reading) | Glasses needed | Some glasses | Good | Depends on design |
| Glare/halos | Lowest | Low | More common | Depends on design |
| Corrects astigmatism | No | Toric versions | Toric versions | Yes |
Byung Woo Ko, M.D.
Representative Director · Board-Certified Ophthalmologist. Former Professor of Ophthalmology, Hanyang University Hospital; former cornea specialist and clinical instructor, Samsung Medical Center; EVO ICL 3,000-eye achievement award. Member of Korean Ophthalmological Society, KSCRS, ARVO.
Watch our surgeons explain
Straight answers from the doctors of Apgujeong Eye Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul.
Frequently asked questions
Is cataract surgery painful?
No. Numbing drops are used and most patients feel only light pressure. The procedure usually takes 15–20 minutes per eye.
How soon will I see after cataract surgery?
Many patients notice clearer vision within a day or two; full stabilisation takes a few weeks.
Can cataract surgery fix my need for reading glasses?
Multifocal and EDOF lenses can reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses for many patients. Your suitability depends on your eye health and expectations.
Can both eyes be done on the same trip to Korea?
Usually yes. The second eye is often treated a few days after the first; plan about 7–10 days in Seoul.
Can a cataract come back?
The cataract itself cannot return, but some patients develop clouding of the lens capsule (posterior capsule opacification), which is treated quickly with a YAG laser.
Explore other options
Get a free assessment before you fly
Send your current prescription on WhatsApp. An English-speaking coordinator replies with suitability notes and available dates.
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