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Eye · 안구건조증 치료
Dry Eye Treatment in Gangnam
In-clinic treatments for dry eye from blocked oil glands: IPL, heat and gland expression, plugs and drops. Usually 3 to 4 IPL sessions a few weeks apart.
Quick facts
- Korean name: 안구건조증 치료
- Procedure time: About 15 to 30 minutes per session
- Anesthesia: None; eye shields protect the eyes during IPL
- Sessions: IPL usually 3 to 4 sessions about 2 to 4 weeks apart, then maintenance
- Downtime: None; mild eyelid redness for a few hours
- Results: Many notice improvement after 2 to 3 sessions
- Lasts: Months; maintenance sessions are often needed
- Typical price: ₩120,000–₩250,000 (per IPL session (Gangnam and Seocho clinic listings))
What is Dry Eye Treatment?
Most dry eye involves meibomian gland dysfunction, where the oil glands in the eyelids are blocked and tears evaporate too fast. Gangnam eye clinics test tear quality and gland structure before choosing a treatment.
It is also common after laser eye surgery, so many refractive clinics run dry eye programmes.
How it works
IPL (intense pulsed light), for example the Lumenis M22 or OptiLight, is flashed along the lower eyelids to reduce inflammation and warm the glands, followed by manual gland expression. Thermal pulsation devices such as LipiFlow heat and press the lids from inside. Punctal plugs slow tear drainage, and prescription drops such as cyclosporine treat inflammation.
Who it suits
- Meibomian gland dysfunction and evaporative dry eye
- Dry eye after LASIK or SMILE
- Contact lens wearers with gritty, tired eyes
- Ocular rosacea
Who should skip it or wait
- Dry eye from untreated thyroid or autoimmune disease without wider care
- IPL on recently tanned or very dark skin without a test patch
- Active eye infection
Side effects and risks
- Temporary redness or swelling of the eyelids
- Pigment change on the skin treated
- Discomfort during gland expression
- Plugs falling out or irritation
Aftercare
- Use warm compresses and lid hygiene at home
- Continue prescribed drops
- Avoid sun on treated skin for a few days
- Take screen breaks and blink fully
Planning around your trip
A single IPL session can fit a short stay, but the full benefit usually needs 3 to 4 sessions spaced weeks apart.
Eye Clinic clinics near Apgujeong
- Apgujeong St. Mary's Eye Clinic
(압구정성모안과의원)
Eye Clinic, 7 min walk from Apgujeong Station - Seoul Balgeun Sesang Eye Clinic
(서울밝은세상안과의원)
Eye Clinic, 4 min walk from Apgujeongrodeo Station - The One Seoul Eye Clinic
(더원서울안과의원)
Eye Clinic, 6 min walk from Sinsa Station - I Love Eye Clinic
(아이러브안과의원)
Eye Clinic, 3 min walk from Apgujeong Station - Seoul Samsung Eye Clinic
(서울삼성안과의원)
Eye Clinic, 6 min walk from Apgujeongrodeo Station - Shin Eye Clinic
(신안과의원)
Eye Clinic, 1 min walk from Sinsa Station - Apgujeong Barobogi Eye Clinic
(압구정바로보기안과의원)
Eye Clinic, 5 min walk from Apgujeong Station - Apgujeong Balgeun Eye Clinic
(압구정밝은안과의원)
Eye Clinic, 8 min walk from Apgujeong Station
Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.
Dry Eye Treatment price in Apgujeong
₩120,000–₩250,000
per IPL session (Gangnam and Seocho clinic listings)
Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Modoodoc dry-eye IPL listings, Gangnam/Seocho eye clinics, 2026. Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.
Dry Eye Treatment questions
Is eye IPL the same as skin IPL?
The technology is similar, but dry eye IPL uses settings and filters designed for the eyelid area, and the eyes are covered with shields.
How do they test what type of dry eye I have?
Common tests include tear break-up time, meibography imaging of the glands and a tear volume test. This takes about 30 minutes.
Will IPL get rid of dry eye permanently?
It usually reduces symptoms for months. Many patients need a top-up session once or twice a year.
Can I have dry eye treatment before LASIK?
Yes, and surgeons often recommend treating dry eye first because it affects the pre-op measurements and recovery.
Do punctal plugs hurt?
Insertion takes a few seconds and is usually painless with numbing drops.
How long do I need to stay for a full IPL course?
Sessions are usually 2 to 4 weeks apart, so a full course of 3 to 4 sessions spans about 6 to 12 weeks. Long-stay visitors and residents fit it best.
Plan your visit
Get a quote before you fly
Send the treatment, your dates and any past procedures. We reply in English with options, prices and clinic locations near Apgujeong Station.