How Long Should You Stay in Korea After LASIK?
Why You Shouldn’t Rush Your Return Flight
One of the biggest questions foreign patients ask is, “Can I fly home the next day after LASIK?”
While LASIK and SMILE surgeries are fast and minimally invasive, your corneas still need time to heal and stabilize. The first 24–48 hours after surgery are crucial for preventing dryness, flap movement, or infection.
Most Korean clinics require at least one follow-up visit the day after surgery. Leaving the country too soon could mean missing that critical post-op check — and flying with dry airplane air can make early recovery uncomfortable.
Recommended Stay Duration After LASIK in Korea
For most international patients:
- LASIK or SMILE: Stay 2–3 days in Korea after your procedure.
- LASEK or PRK: Stay 4–7 days, as surface-based healing takes longer.
- ICL Lens Surgery: Stay 3–5 days for additional pressure checks and lens stability exams.
This schedule allows enough time for:
- Day-after checkup with your surgeon
- Early healing and dryness management
- Emergency consultation if your eyes react unusually
- Clearance for safe flight home
What Happens During the Post-Op Checkup
Your next-day follow-up is short but essential. The doctor will:
- Check that your corneal flap or incision is healing properly
- Test your vision and dryness levels
- Apply protective eye drops or additional lubricants
- Clear you for travel (if healing is stable)
If you’re from overseas, let your clinic know your return date in advance — many Seoul clinics accommodate international schedules with flexible appointments and English-language support.
Flying After LASIK: What You Need to Know
Flying after LASIK is safe once your surgeon approves it, but you’ll need to take a few precautions:
- Bring lubricating eye drops — cabin air is extremely dry.
- Wear sunglasses during travel to reduce light sensitivity.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes even if they feel itchy or watery.
- Stay hydrated and blink frequently during your flight.
If you’re taking a long-haul flight, try to rest your eyes as much as possible and avoid contact lenses or heavy screen use right after surgery.
What If You Leave Korea Too Soon?
Leaving immediately after surgery can increase risks such as:
- Missed early detection of flap wrinkles or inflammation
- Prolonged dryness without local medical guidance
- Difficulty accessing follow-up care in your home country
If you must leave early, request:
- A digital copy of your surgery report
- Post-op instructions in English
- A list of recommended eye drops and dosage schedule
- Contact details for remote follow-up or teleconsultation
Reputable clinics like those in Gangnam and Apgujeong often offer WhatsApp or KakaoTalk post-op support for foreign patients who return home early.
Tips for Planning Your LASIK Trip to Korea
- Book at least 3 nights in Seoul if you’re flying in just for surgery.
- Schedule your consultation on Day 1, surgery on Day 2, and follow-up on Day 3.
- Choose accommodation within 10–15 minutes of your clinic for convenience.
- Avoid sightseeing or shopping right after surgery — rest is key.
- Use eye drops frequently and wear protective sunglasses outdoors.
Final Thoughts
LASIK recovery is quick — but the first two days matter most.
If you’re visiting Korea for vision correction, staying an extra night or two can make all the difference in ensuring a safe, comfortable, and complication-free recovery.
Seoul’s leading clinics are used to treating international patients on tight schedules, so communicate your travel dates in advance and let your doctor clear you for flight when it’s truly safe to go.
Call-to-Action
👁️ Thinking about getting LASIK in Seoul?
Plan a 3-day stay for consultation, surgery, and checkup.
Your eyes will thank you for the extra care — and you’ll fly home seeing the world more clearly than ever.
