Table of contents

• What Is SMILE Eye Surgery?
• Best SMILE Eye Surgery Clinics in Korea
• SMILE Eye Surgery in Korea
• Alternatives to SMILE Eye Surgery
• Conclusion

Are you considering a vision correction procedure but wary of traditional laser surgeries? Discover how SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) eye surgery is transforming the field with its minimally invasive approach and why Korea is quickly becoming a global leader in offering this revolutionary technology.

What Is SMILE Eye Surgery?

SMILE, or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, is a cutting-edge laser eye surgery technique that is primarily used to treat myopia (nearsightedness) and astigmatism. This minimally invasive procedure was developed as an alternative to LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) and PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy), offering several unique advantages over these more traditional forms of refractive surgery.

Procedure Types and Benefits

Unlike LASIK, which requires the creation of a corneal flap, SMILE involves creating a small, disc-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea using a femtosecond laser. This lenticule is then removed through a tiny incision, resulting in a change in the shape of the cornea that corrects the patient's vision. The smaller incision size of SMILE (2-4 mm compared to 20 mm for LASIK) contributes to a quicker recovery time and less disruption of the corneal nerves.

Who Can Benefit from SMILE Eye Surgery?

SMILE is suitable for patients who:

• Are aged 18 and older, with stable vision for at least a year.
• Have myopia ranging from -1.00 to -10.00 diopters and astigmatism up to 5.00 diopters.
• Have sufficient corneal thickness to undergo the procedure.
• Prefer a minimally invasive procedure with a quicker healing time.
• Have dry eyes, as SMILE may cause less dryness compared to LASIK.

However, not everyone is a candidate for SMILE surgery. Individuals with certain eye conditions such as keratoconus, severe dry eyes, or corneal scarring may not be eligible. It is crucial to undergo a thorough eye examination by a qualified ophthalmologist to determine suitability.

Pros and Cons of SMILE Eye Surgery

Pros

1. Minimally Invasive: The smaller incision size leads to a quicker recovery and less interruption to daily activities.
2. Less Dry Eye: Since SMILE does not involve the creation of a large corneal flap, there is less incidence of dry eye syndrome post-surgery.
3. Reduced Risk of Complications: Fewer chances of flap-related complications such as dislocation or epithelial ingrowth.
4. Precision: The femtosecond laser used in SMILE offers high precision, leading to more accurate visual outcomes.
5. Stability: Patients often experience stable, long-term visual acuity post-surgery.

Cons

1. Limited Treatable Range: SMILE is not currently suitable for hyperopia (farsightedness) or certain severe astigmatisms.
2. Technological Expertise: Requires highly specialized equipment and training, making it less commonly available than LASIK.
3. Potential for Residual Errors: There is a chance of under-correction or over-correction, which might necessitate additional surgery.
4. Cost: The advanced technology used in SMILE can make it more expensive compared to other refractive surgery options.
5. Longer Visual Recovery: Some patients may experience a slightly longer period to achieve their best vision compared to LASIK.

By understanding the comprehensive details of SMILE eye surgery, potential patients can make an informed decision about whether this advanced procedure is the right choice for their vision correction needs.

Best SMILE Eye Surgery Clinics in Korea

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil	State-of-the-art solutions, comprehensive range of procedures, patient safety and satisfaction	SMILE, SMILE PRO, LASIK, LASEK, ICL, cataract surgeries
BnVIIT Eye Clinic	A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System, 550,000 successful surgeries, personalized care	SMILE, all-laser LASIK, LASEK (PRK), Phakic Intraocular Lenses (PIOL), Orthokeratology
Healing Eye Clinic	State-of-the-art technology, university hospital-level equipment, comprehensive services	LASIK, LASEK, SMILE, ICL, multifocal lens implants, ZEISS SUITE & Z8 laser cataract surgery, corneal transplants

BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil

BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil stands as a leading eye care center in Korea, renowned for its state-of-the-art solutions in vision correction. The clinic offers a comprehensive range of procedures, including SMILE, LASIK, LASEK, ICL, and cataract surgeries, each tailored to meet the unique needs of patients. SMILE, or Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, is a minimally invasive procedure that effectively corrects myopia and astigmatism, while the advanced SMILE PRO offers enhanced precision and quicker recovery times. For those with thinner corneas, LASEK provides a viable alternative to LASIK, which itself is a popular choice for reshaping the cornea to address various vision issues.

In addition to laser-based surgeries, BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil offers Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedures, ideal for patients with high degrees of myopia and astigmatism, particularly those with thin corneas. The clinic also specializes in cataract and presbyopia surgeries, utilizing monofocal and multifocal intraocular lenses to restore vision clarity and accommodate multiple focal points. With a commitment to patient safety and satisfaction, BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil provides thorough pre- and post-surgery instructions, ensuring optimal outcomes and a smooth recovery process for all patients.

Find more about this clinic here: BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Website

BnVIIT Eye Clinic

BnVIIT Eye Clinic, located in the bustling district of Gangnam, Korea, stands as a beacon of excellence in the field of ophthalmology with over 30 years of experience and a remarkable record of 550,000 successful eye surgeries. This premier clinic is renowned for its innovative A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System, which enhances the precision and outcomes of its comprehensive range of vision correction options. Among its offerings, the clinic specializes in SMILE surgery, a minimally invasive procedure that corrects vision by removing a small lens-shaped piece of tissue from the cornea. Additionally, BnVIIT provides all-laser LASIK and LASEK (PRK) surgeries, which utilize advanced laser technology to reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.

Beyond laser surgeries, BnVIIT Eye Clinic also excels in implantable lens procedures, offering Phakic Intraocular Lenses (PIOL) for patients with high refractive errors unsuitable for laser treatments. The clinic's expertise extends to cataract surgery, where cloudy lenses are replaced with artificial intraocular lenses to restore clear vision. For those seeking non-surgical options, the clinic provides Orthokeratology with Ortho-K lenses, which are worn overnight to temporarily reshape the cornea for clear daytime vision. With a commitment to personalized care, BnVIIT offers customized treatment plans tailored to the unique visual needs and lifestyles of each patient, ensuring optimal results and satisfaction.

Find more about this clinic here: BnVIIT Eye Clinic Website

Healing Eye Clinic

Healing Eye Clinic, conveniently located at Sinnonhyeon Station, is a leading destination for advanced vision correction procedures in Korea. The clinic is renowned for its state-of-the-art technology and a comprehensive range of services designed to enhance and correct vision. Among its offerings, the clinic provides LASIK and LASEK surgeries, both of which are popular refractive procedures that reshape the cornea to treat common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. For patients with thinner corneas, LASEK is often recommended due to its less invasive nature. Additionally, the clinic specializes in SMILE surgery, a minimally invasive technique that corrects myopia and mild astigmatism by removing a small disc-shaped piece of tissue from the cornea.

Beyond laser surgeries, Healing Eye Clinic offers lens implant procedures such as the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) for those unsuitable for LASIK, providing a solution for moderate to severe nearsightedness. Multifocal lens implants are also available to address presbyopia, reducing the dependency on reading glasses. The clinic's premium cataract surgery employs cutting-edge technology like the ZEISS SUITE & Z8 laser for precise removal of cloudy lenses, restoring clear vision and correcting additional issues like astigmatism. Furthermore, the clinic offers specialized procedures such as corneal transplants for patients with corneal disorders. With a team of highly experienced medical professionals and university hospital-level equipment, Healing Eye Clinic is dedicated to delivering exceptional care and optimal results for all patients.

Find more about this clinic here: Healing Eye Clinic Website

SMILE Eye Surgery in Korea

Korea has become a prominent destination for advanced medical procedures, with SMILE eye surgery standing out as one of the most sought-after treatments. SMILE, which stands for Small Incision Lenticule Extraction, is a minimally invasive refractive eye surgery that provides an effective alternative to LASIK and PRK. Here is a detailed look at what you can expect when coming to Korea for this cutting-edge procedure.

Preparing for Your Trip

When planning your trip to Korea for SMILE eye surgery, the first step is to select a reputable clinic or hospital. Korean medical facilities are known for their state-of-the-art technology and highly trained specialists. Most clinics have an international patient department that can assist with travel arrangements, accommodation, and translation services. Ensure that you have all necessary medical records and documentation prepared in advance.

Consultations and Preoperative Evaluations

Your medical journey will typically begin with a thorough initial consultation. This includes a comprehensive eye examination to determine your eligibility for SMILE surgery. Tests may involve corneal thickness measurements, eye pressure testing, and detailed mapping of your corneal surface. During this phase, your surgeon will discuss your medical history, the specifics of the procedure, potential risks, and benefits.

The Procedure

SMILE surgery itself is remarkably quick, often lasting less than 30 minutes. On the day of the surgery, you'll be led into a sterile operating room where numbing eye drops are applied to ensure you feel no discomfort. Using a femtosecond laser, the surgeon creates a small lens-shaped piece of tissue (lenticule) within the cornea. This lenticule is then extracted through a tiny incision, reshaping the cornea and correcting refractive errors.

Patients generally find the procedure to be pain-free, with little to no sensation during the surgery. The minimal invasiveness of the SMILE technique means there is no need for creating a corneal flap as with LASIK, which significantly reduces the risk of complications and accelerates the healing process.

Postoperative Care and Recovery

After the procedure, you will rest briefly at the clinic, allowing the initial effects of the surgery to be monitored. You'll be given eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It's important to follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions meticulously, which may include using protective eyewear and avoiding activities that could strain your eyes.

The recovery period for SMILE surgery is typically swift. Most patients notice an improvement in their vision within a few days, with further clarity developing over the following weeks. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and ensure optimal healing.

Cultural Experience and Comfort

Korea is not only renowned for its medical expertise but also for its rich culture and hospitality. Many patients use the opportunity to explore the vibrant life in cities such as Seoul or Busan. English-speaking coordinators often help international patients navigate cultural nuances and the bustling urban landscape.

Korean cuisine, historic sites, and shopping districts offer a delightful diversion during your recovery days. The local people are welcoming, and public transport is efficient, making it easy to travel around even if you're new to the country.

Cost Considerations

Procedure Price	Korean Won (₩)	USD ($)
Low Price	₩2,800,000	$2000
High Price	₩6,000,000	$4200

Exchange rate as of 2025-04-20: 1 KRW = 0.0007 USD

Please note that these prices are approximate guidelines and can vary significantly based on the clinic and your individual circumstances.

One of the appealing aspects of undergoing SMILE eye surgery in Korea is the cost-effectiveness combined with high-quality care. The overall expenses, including the procedure, accommodation, and travel, often total less than the costs of similar surgeries in Western countries. Many clinics offer packages tailored to international patients, providing comprehensive care at competitive rates.

By choosing to undergo SMILE eye surgery in Korea, patients benefit not only from advanced medical treatment but also from a supportive environment that enhances the overall experience.

Alternatives to SMILE Eye Surgery

When considering corrective eye surgery, there are several alternatives to SMILE (small incision lenticule extraction) that patients might explore. Each has its unique benefits and may be recommended based on specific conditions or preferences. Here are three popular alternatives:

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis)

LASIK is perhaps the most well-known laser eye surgery. This method involves creating a thin flap in the cornea, folding it back, and then reshaping the corneal tissue underneath using an excimer laser.

• Procedure: A femtosecond laser or a microkeratome is used to create a small flap in the cornea. This flap is then lifted to allow an excimer laser to reshape the cornea for improved vision.
• Treatment Scope: LASIK can correct myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.
• Recovery: Recovery is typically quick, with many patients noticing improved vision within a day or two. However, it is essential to protect the cornea flap from dislocating.

PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy)

PRK is another type of laser vision correction that predates LASIK. Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap.

• Procedure: In PRK, the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is removed entirely to expose the area for laser reshaping. An excimer laser then reshapes the cornea.
• Treatment Scope: Like LASIK, PRK can effectively treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
• Recovery: Recovery takes a bit longer than LASIK since the epithelium needs to regrow, typically around a week. Patients may experience some discomfort and blurred vision during the initial healing period.

LASEK (Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis)

LASEK combines elements of both LASIK and PRK. It involves creating a very thin flap from the epithelium, which is retracted so that the excimer laser can reshape the cornea.

• Procedure: The surgeon loosens the epithelial layer with an alcohol solution and folds it back to access the cornea for laser treatment. After the excimer laser reshapes the cornea, the epithelial layer is repositioned, facilitating a more natural healing process.
• Treatment Scope: LASEK is suitable for patients with thinner corneas, offering an option for those who might not be candidates for LASIK. It also treats myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
• Recovery: Recovery is somewhat intermediate between LASIK and PRK. Vision improvement and healing might take a few days to a week, with some initial discomfort as the epithelium heals.

Each of these alternatives to SMILE eye surgery has its advantages and suitability criteria. It is essential to consult with an eye care professional to determine the most appropriate option based on individual eye conditions, lifestyle needs, and vision correction goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SMILE eye surgery in Korea represents a significant advancement in corrective eye procedures, offering numerous benefits such as minimal invasiveness, quick recovery, and enhanced precision. As Korea continues to establish itself as a global leader in medical technology and innovation, patients from all over the world are increasingly turning to Korean eye clinics for this state-of-the-art treatment. With cutting-edge facilities, highly trained surgeons, and a strong emphasis on patient care, Korea proves to be an ideal destination for those seeking the most effective and efficient vision correction solutions available today. Whether for convenience, cost, or quality, SMILE eye surgery in Korea stands out as a premier choice for achieving clearer vision and a better quality of life.