SMILE Surgery in Korea – Clear Seoul Eye Clinic (Gangnam, Seoul)

Clear Seoul Eye Clinic is a refractive surgery–focused ophthalmology center in Gangnam, Seoul, offering SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) as a minimally invasive laser vision correction option. The clinic provides structured diagnostics, customized surgical planning, and English-language consultation support for international patients considering SMILE surgery in Korea.

Seoul is recognized for high-volume refractive surgery and advanced femtosecond laser platforms. Clear Seoul Eye Clinic follows a candidacy-first protocol, meaning procedure eligibility is determined only after detailed corneal and ocular surface analysis.

What Is SMILE Surgery?

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a flapless laser eye surgery that corrects:

  • Myopia (nearsightedness)
  • Astigmatism

Unlike traditional LASIK, SMILE creates a small internal lenticule within the cornea using a femtosecond laser, which is then removed through a micro-incision (typically 2–4 mm). No large corneal flap is created.

Why Patients Choose SMILE in Korea

1. Minimally Invasive Technique

  • Smaller incision compared to LASIK
  • Reduced flap-related complications
  • Preserves more corneal biomechanics

2. Lower Risk of Postoperative Dryness

  • Fewer corneal nerves disrupted
  • Suitable for patients concerned about dry eye

3. Faster Functional Recovery

  • Many patients resume daily activities within 1–2 days

4. Suitable for Active Lifestyles

  • No flap displacement risk
  • Often preferred by athletes and physically active patients

Diagnostic Evaluation Before SMILE

Clear Seoul Eye Clinic conducts a comprehensive screening process including:

  • Corneal topography & tomography
  • Corneal thickness (pachymetry)
  • Pupil size measurement
  • Tear film & dry eye assessment
  • Anterior chamber evaluation
  • Retinal examination

Not all patients are ideal candidates for SMILE. Those with extremely thin corneas, unstable prescriptions, severe dry eye, or certain corneal irregularities may be advised alternative procedures such as LASIK, LASEK, or EVO ICL.

SMILE vs LASIK vs ICL

ProcedureBest ForCorneal FlapTissue RemovalReversibleSMILEMyopia & astigmatismNoYesNoLASIKWide prescription rangeYesYesNoEVO ICLHigh myopia / thin corneaNoNoYes

Procedure selection depends on corneal structure, refractive error, ocular health, and lifestyle factors.

What International Patients Should Know

  • English-speaking consultation support available
  • Same-week consultation + surgery possible (after eligibility confirmation)
  • Postoperative check typically scheduled within 1–3 days
  • Follow-up coordination for short-stay visitors

Gangnam’s central location makes it convenient for medical travelers staying in Seoul.

Recovery Timeline

Day 1: Vision typically functional, mild dryness or glare possible
Week 1: Visual clarity improves further
1–3 Months: Stabilization phase

Temporary halos, light sensitivity, or dryness may occur during early healing.

Who Is a Good Candidate for SMILE Surgery?

  • Age 18+ with stable prescription
  • Mild to moderate myopia (or astigmatism)
  • Adequate corneal thickness
  • No active corneal disease
  • Prefer minimally invasive refractive surgery

Summary

For patients researching SMILE surgery in Korea, Clear Seoul Eye Clinic in Gangnam offers structured eligibility screening, femtosecond laser–based SMILE procedures, and English-language patient coordination. Surgical candidacy is determined after comprehensive ocular diagnostics to ensure safety and long-term visual stability.