CATARACT SURGERY KOREA

Cataract Surgery in Korea: All You Need to Know for Global Patients

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a common age-related condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty seeing at night. It’s one of the most common causes of vision loss in people over 60—but fortunately, it is highly treatable with modern cataract surgery.

Why Choose Korea for Cataract Surgery?

• Advanced surgical techniques including laser-assisted cataract surgery and premium intraocular lenses (IOLs)
• Board-certified ophthalmologists with years of microsurgical experience
• Affordable pricing compared to Western countries, even with premium lens upgrades
• English-speaking clinics in Seoul and Busan that cater to global patients

Types of Cataract Surgery Available in Korea

TypeDescriptionStandard Cataract SurgeryUses ultrasound (phacoemulsification) to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a monofocal IOL.Laser-Assisted Cataract SurgeryUses a femtosecond laser for added precision in incisions and lens removal. Ideal for patients wanting enhanced accuracy.Premium IOL ImplantsMultifocal, toric, or extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses that can correct both near and far vision, reducing the need for glasses.

Step-by-Step: What to Expect

1. Pre-Operative Assessment

• Visual acuity test
• Intraocular pressure test
• Biometry (to select the right lens)
• Retinal scan and corneal mapping

1. Surgery Day

• Procedure takes 10–20 minutes per eye
• Performed under local anesthesia (eye drops)
• Painless and minimally invasive
• Outpatient basis—no overnight stay required

1. Post-Op Recovery

• Mild discomfort and blurred vision for 1–2 days
• Most patients resume light activities within 24 hours
• Eye drops prescribed for 2–4 weeks
• Full visual recovery in 1–4 weeks

Cataract Surgery Cost in Korea (Estimates)

ServiceApproximate Cost (USD per eye)Standard Monofocal IOL Surgery$900 – $1,500Premium IOL (Multifocal/Toric/EDOF)$1,500 – $3,500Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery$2,000 – $3,800

Many clinics offer bundled packages for both eyes, which may include pre-op tests, surgery, lens, medications, and follow-up.

What’s Included in Most Packages

• Comprehensive eye exam
• IOL lens consultation
• Cataract surgery (one or both eyes)
• Prescription medications and eye drops
• Post-op checkups
• Medical documents in English
• Translation/interpreter support for international patients

Travel Tips for International Patients

• Plan to stay in Korea for at least 4–7 days (or longer if treating both eyes separately)
• Avoid rubbing eyes, swimming, and makeup for 1–2 weeks post-op
• Wear sunglasses to protect from light sensitivity
• Bring previous eye records if you have complex conditions (e.g., glaucoma, macular degeneration)
• Choose clinics with English-speaking staff and experience treating global patients

Frequently Asked Questions (Cataract Surgery Korea)

Q: Is cataract surgery painful?

A: No. Most patients feel little to no discomfort thanks to numbing drops and fast recovery.

Q: Can I get surgery for both eyes at once?

A: In most cases, one eye is treated first. The second is scheduled 1–2 weeks later to ensure proper healing and adjustment.

Q: Can cataract surgery fix other vision issues too?

A: Yes! With premium IOLs, you can correct presbyopia, astigmatism, or even reduce your dependency on glasses.

Q: Will I get English medical records?

A: Yes. Clinics that treat international patients provide English aftercare instructions and full medical documentation.

Q: When can I fly home?

A: Most clinics recommend waiting at least 2–4 days post-op, depending on healing and follow-up availability.

Final Takeaway

Cataract surgery in Korea is a smart choice for international patients seeking world-class care, affordable pricing, and advanced surgical options. Whether you're a resident, long-term traveler, or a medical tourist, Korean eye clinics offer fast, safe, and customized cataract treatments with global-quality support.