LASIK in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea — fast, customised laser vision correction
Femtosecond LASIK reshapes the cornea under a thin flap, giving the fastest visual recovery of any laser procedure. Every treatment at Apgujeong Eye Clinic is planned after 50+ diagnostic tests by board-certified ophthalmologists.
Board-certified ophthalmologist · Updated October 2026
What is LASIK and how quickly will I see after surgery in Seoul?
LASIK is a laser procedure that corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea under a thin flap. Most patients see clearly within 24 hours. At Apgujeong Eye Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, Korea, LASIK is planned after 50+ diagnostic tests and performed by board-certified ophthalmologists with English-speaking support.
- Treats
- Myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism
- Visual recovery
- Usually 24 hours
- Time in OR
- About 15–20 min
- Back to work
- 1–2 days
Two lasers, one precise correction
First, a femtosecond laser creates a thin, hinged flap on the surface of the cornea. The flap is folded back and an excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to your exact prescription. The flap is then laid back down, where it seals naturally without stitches.
Because the surface layer is preserved, LASIK has the quickest visual recovery and the least post-operative discomfort of all laser options — which is why it remains one of the most performed elective surgeries worldwide.
- Sharp vision often the morning after surgery
- Treats myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism
- Wavefront- and topography-guided customisation available
- Minimal discomfort — usually only a few hours of irritation
Who is a good candidate for LASIK?
Final eligibility is confirmed only after a full diagnostic exam with your surgeon.
Usually a good fit if you…
- Are 18+ with a stable prescription for at least a year
- Have healthy corneas of adequate thickness
- Have myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism within the treatable range
- Want the fastest possible visual recovery
- Do not play high-impact contact sports
We may suggest another option if…
- Your corneas are thin or irregular — LASEK, SMILE or ICL may be safer
- You have significant dry eye — SMILE may be preferred
- You do boxing, martial arts or other high-impact sports
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have keratoconus or uncontrolled systemic disease
Your LASIK journey in Seoul
WhatsApp pre-check
Share your prescription for an initial suitability review.
50+ tests
Topography, pachymetry, wavefront, tear film and retina exam.
Surgeon plan
Your ophthalmologist designs a customised ablation profile.
Surgery
About 15–20 minutes for both eyes; you rest and go home the same day.
Follow-up
Next-day check and pre-departure exam, then remote aftercare.
LASIK vs SMILE vs LASEK
Which laser option suits you depends on your cornea, prescription and lifestyle.
| LASIK | SMILE | LASEK | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flap | Yes | None (2–4 mm incision) | None (surface) |
| Visual recovery | About 1 day | 1–3 days | 5–7 days |
| Discomfort | Minimal | Minimal | Moderate for 2–3 days |
| Treats hyperopia | Yes | No | Yes |
| Contact sports | Less ideal | Good | Good |
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.
LASIK questions answered by our doctors
Straight answers from the doctors of Apgujeong Eye Clinic, Gangnam, Seoul.
Frequently asked questions
Is LASIK safe?
LASIK has been performed for over 25 years and has a strong safety record in well-selected patients. Possible side effects include dry eye, glare, halos and under- or over-correction, which your surgeon will discuss after your examination.
Does LASIK hurt?
Anaesthetic drops are used, so the procedure is not painful. You may feel pressure briefly and mild irritation for a few hours afterwards.
How many days do I need in Korea for LASIK?
Plan around 5–7 days: examination and surgery, a next-day check, and a pre-departure exam.
Can LASIK fix astigmatism and farsightedness?
Yes. LASIK can treat myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism within safe limits determined by your corneal measurements.
LASIK or SMILE — which is better?
LASIK offers the fastest recovery and can treat farsightedness; SMILE avoids a flap and tends to cause less dry eye. Your surgeon recommends the safest option for your eyes.
Is LASIK permanent?
The corneal reshaping is permanent, but eyes can still change with age — for example presbyopia after 40 or cataract later in life.
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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