Cost of SMILE LASIK in Korea: What You Need to Know

Cost of SMILE LASIK in Korea: What You Need to Know

If you're looking for permanent vision correction that’s fast, safe, and gentle on the eyes, SMILE LASIK (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) might be your best option. South Korea is one of the top destinations in Asia for SMILE eye surgery, thanks to its advanced medical technology, highly skilled surgeons, and affordable prices—especially compared to the U.S. or Europe.

Here’s everything you need to know about the cost of SMILE LASIK in Korea and what it includes.



What Is SMILE LASIK?

SMILE is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery that corrects nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism. Unlike traditional LASIK, SMILE does not require creating a corneal flap. Instead, it uses a femtosecond laser to create a small lenticule inside the cornea, which is then removed through a tiny incision.

It offers several advantages:

• Less dry eye compared to LASIK
• Faster healing and lower risk of flap complications
• Suitable for patients with active lifestyles

SMILE is FDA-approved and widely offered at top eye clinics in Seoul.

How Much Does SMILE LASIK Cost in Korea?

The average cost of SMILE LASIK in Korea ranges from ₩2.2 million to ₩3.2 million KRW, which is approximately $1,600 to $2,400 USD. This price typically covers both eyes and includes:

• Full diagnostic testing (corneal thickness, topography, eye pressure, etc.)
• Pre-surgery consultation
• The SMILE laser procedure itself
• Protective goggles and post-op eye drops
• One or more follow-up appointments

Some premium clinics may charge slightly more depending on the brand of laser used, the experience of the surgeon, or the location (e.g., Gangnam clinics).

Why Is It Cheaper Than in Other Countries?

In countries like the United States or Canada, SMILE LASIK often costs over $4,000–$6,000 USD. Korea offers similar or better technology at lower prices due to:

• High patient volume and efficient clinic workflows
• Competitive pricing among private eye clinics
• Lower overall healthcare service costs
• Streamlined surgery processes for international visitors

Despite the lower cost, the quality of care is outstanding. Many Korean surgeons have performed thousands of procedures and use top-tier equipment like the ZEISS VisuMax laser.

Additional Costs to Consider

Most clinics offer SMILE LASIK as a full package. However, you may encounter optional or additional costs for:

• Prescription sunglasses or blue light glasses
• Extra follow-up appointments beyond the first month
• Additional correction for extremely high prescriptions
• Travel, hotel, and translation services (if not included)

For international patients, many clinics offer bundled services including hotel recommendations, airport pickup, and English-speaking coordinators.

How Long Should You Stay in Korea?

Most international patients can complete their SMILE LASIK journey in just 3 to 5 days:

• Day 1: Eye exams and consultation
• Day 2: Surgery
• Day 3–5: Recovery and follow-up check
• Day 5+ (optional): Sightseeing or return flight

Recovery is quick, with most patients seeing clearly within 24 to 48 hours.

Is SMILE Right for You?

SMILE is ideal for:

• Adults aged 18–45 with stable vision
• People with myopia (up to -10.00D) and astigmatism
• Those with active lifestyles or dry eye concerns
• Patients seeking a flap-free alternative to LASIK

Not everyone is a candidate, so a pre-surgery screening is essential.

Final Thoughts

SMILE LASIK in Korea offers a powerful combination of advanced technology, excellent outcomes, and affordable pricing. Whether you're a local resident or a medical tourist, you can expect fast, safe, and comfortable care from some of Asia’s top vision correction specialists.

With prices starting at around $1,600 for both eyes, it's no surprise that more and more international patients are traveling to Korea to ditch their glasses for good.