Eye · 라식

LASIK Laser Eye Surgery in Gangnam

A thin corneal flap is lifted and an excimer laser reshapes the cornea underneath. Most people see clearly the next day; needs enough corneal thickness.

Quick facts
  • Korean name: 라식
  • Procedure time: About 10 to 15 minutes for both eyes; plan 2 to 3 hours on surgery day
  • Anesthesia: Numbing eye drops; oral sedative at some clinics
  • Sessions: Pre-op exam, surgery, check-ups at day 1, about 1 week and 1 month
  • Downtime: 1 to 2 days; most return to screen work the day after
  • Results: Functional vision next day; stabilises over 1 to 3 months
  • Lasts: The correction is permanent; age-related presbyopia still develops from the 40s
  • Typical price: ₩1,300,000–₩2,500,000 (both eyes)

What is LASIK?

LASIK corrects short-sight, long-sight and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea. A femtosecond laser cuts a hinged flap about 100 microns thick, the flap is folded back, and an excimer laser removes tissue before the flap is laid down again.

Recovery is quick because the surface layer is kept intact. The trade-off is the flap, which is why people in contact sports or with thin corneas are often steered to LASEK or SMILE.

How it works

Numbing drops are used and a suction ring holds the eye still. The flap and laser steps take a few minutes per eye. Korean clinics often call femtosecond LASIK by brand names such as Smart LASIK or Intralase LASIK; check which lasers are used rather than relying on the label.

Who it suits

  • Myopia and astigmatism within the laser's treatment range
  • People who need clear vision within a day or two
  • Adults with a stable prescription for at least a year
  • Corneas thick enough to leave a safe residual bed

Who should skip it or wait

  • Thin or irregular corneas, including keratoconus
  • Contact sports or jobs with risk of eye trauma
  • Severe dry eye
  • Pregnancy or breastfeeding
  • Under 18 or with a changing prescription

Side effects and risks

  • Dry eye for weeks to months
  • Halos and glare at night
  • Flap complications such as wrinkles or dislocation after trauma
  • Under- or over-correction needing a laser touch-up
  • Corneal ectasia (rare)

Aftercare

  • Use antibiotic and steroid drops as prescribed
  • Wear the eye shield to sleep for about a week
  • Do not rub eyes or swim for 2 weeks
  • Avoid eye make-up for about a week

Planning around your trip

Pre-op exams in Korea usually take about 1.5 to 3 hours and include pupil dilation, so you cannot drive afterwards. Flying is usually fine after the day-1 check, but plan to stay about 5 to 7 days for the 1-week review.

Eye Clinic clinics near Apgujeong

Last reviewed October 2026. General information only, not medical advice. A doctor confirms what suits you at consultation.

LASIK price in Apgujeong

₩1,300,000–₩2,500,000
both eyes

Typical range at clinics around Apgujeong, Sinsa and Cheongdam, checked 2026-10. Source: Glasswallet vision-correction cost guide (2025-2026 Korean market, both eyes). Cosmetic treatments in Korea carry 10% VAT; ask whether a quote includes it.

Full LASIK price breakdown →

LASIK questions

How long must I stop wearing contact lenses before the exam?

Korean clinics commonly ask for about 1 week off soft lenses, 2 weeks off toric lenses and 3 to 4 weeks off hard (RGP) lenses, because lenses temporarily change corneal shape. Confirm the exact rule with your clinic.

Can I have the exam and surgery on the same day?

Many Gangnam clinics allow it if results are clear-cut, but some prefer a second day for confirmation. Ask when booking.

Can I fly home the day after LASIK?

Cabin pressure does not affect the flap. Most surgeons allow flying after the day-1 check, but you will miss the 1-week review unless you stay.

What is Smart LASIK?

It is a Korean marketing name, usually for femtosecond-laser LASIK combined with a specific excimer laser. Ask which devices are used.

Why was I told LASEK suits me better?

Usually because your cornea is thin relative to your prescription, or your job or sport carries a risk of eye impact.

Can LASIK be redone if my eyes change?

A touch-up treatment is sometimes possible by relifting the flap or treating the surface, if enough corneal thickness remains.

When can I go back to the gym with LASIK?

Light exercise after about a week; swimming and contact sports after about a month.

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.