LASIK in Myeongdong, Seoul: Fast, Safe Vision Correction for Travelers & Expats
Why Choose Myeongdong for LASIK?
Myeongdong is central, tourist-friendly, and packed with clinics that serve international patients. You’ll find English-assisted consultations, transparent pre-op testing, and efficient scheduling—great if you’re visiting Seoul for a short stay.
Who’s a Good Candidate?
- Stable prescription for 12–24 months
- Healthy corneas (adequate thickness; no active keratoconus)
- No recent eye infections; well-managed dry eye
- Contact lens holiday before measurements (soft: 7–14 days; RGP: longer)
Procedure Options (At a Glance)
- LASIK – Flap-based reshaping; rapid recovery and minimal discomfort
- LASEK/PRK – No flap; ideal for thinner corneas; slightly longer downtime
- SMILE – Small-incision approach; flap-sparing; quick comfort return
- EVO ICL – Lens implant for high myopia/thin corneas or dry-eye-prone patients
How to Pick a Myeongdong Clinic (Quick Checklist)
Diagnostics depth → tomography + epithelial mapping + tear film tests
Device transparency → named femto/excimer platforms and maintenance history
Surgeon experience → case volume, enhancement policy, complication protocols
Language support → English consent forms, post-op instructions, WhatsApp/LINE follow-up
Safety culture → honest “not a candidate” calls; alternatives like PRK/ICL offered
What Your Visit Timeline Looks Like
- Pre-inquiry: Share Rx history, lens wear, travel dates.
- Lens break: Stop soft lenses 1–2 weeks pre-screen; RGP/ortho-k longer.
- Screening day: Dilated exam, corneal maps, dryness evaluation, surgeon consult.
- Surgery: Often same/next day if you qualify.
- Follow-ups: Day-1, ~1 week, ~1 month; plan enough days in Seoul before flying out.
Recovery & Aftercare Tips
- First 48 hours: Rest eyes, avoid rubbing; preservative-free tears frequently.
- 1–2 weeks: No pools/saunas; sunglasses outside; go light on eye makeup.
- Screens: 20-20-20 rule, humidifier, warm compresses if advised.
- Enhancements: Ask about criteria, timing window, and fees in advance.
Common Questions
Will I qualify if my corneas are thin?
Maybe not for LASIK—ask about PRK/LASEK, SMILE, or EVO ICL.
Is dry eye a dealbreaker?
Not always. Many clinics pre-treat dryness to improve comfort and outcomes.
How long should I stay in Seoul?
Many visitors plan
3–7 days post-op before flying; confirm with your surgeon.
Travel-Smart Planning (for Visitors)
- Bring recent prescriptions and any prior corneal scans if available.
- Schedule screening early in your trip to keep surgery/follow-up flexible.
Line up home-country optometry for long-term checks.



