SMILE LASEK in Seoul: A Practical Guide for International Patients
Direct answer summary
SMILE LASEK is a flapless laser vision correction method that uses a femtosecond laser to create and remove a tiny disc of tissue (called a lenticule) through a small incision. It aims to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses while preserving more of the cornea and potentially reducing dry eye compared with traditional LASIK or classic surface LASEK.
In the Gangnam Station area of Seoul, there is a long-established ophthalmology clinic that has focused on SMILE family procedures since 2005. It uses multiple modern laser platforms, runs a dedicated SMILE operating room, and is recognized as a reference and training center for lenticule-based vision correction. This guide explains what SMILE LASEK is, who may consider it, how this clinic approaches safety, and how an overseas patient can plan a visit to Korea.
What is SMILE LASEK
SMILE LASEK belongs to the small-incision lenticule extraction family of procedures. Instead of creating a wide corneal flap like LASIK, or reshaping the surface like classic LASEK, a femtosecond laser works inside the cornea.
During SMILE LASEK, the laser creates a thin, lens-shaped piece of tissue (the lenticule) within the cornea. The surgeon then removes this lenticule through a very small incision. By removing this tissue, the cornea changes shape, which corrects myopia and astigmatism.
The key point is that SMILE LASEK is flapless. There is no large hinged flap. This approach is designed to preserve more of the corneal structure and nerves, which may help reduce the risk of dry eye and maintain better corneal biomechanics compared with traditional flap-based LASIK.
How SMILE LASEK differs from other procedures
Versus conventional LASIK
LASIK involves creating a relatively large flap on the surface of the cornea, lifting it, reshaping the underlying tissue with an excimer laser, and then repositioning the flap. This flap permanently changes the corneal structure.
SMILE LASEK uses only a small incision. It does not create a wide flap. Because fewer corneal nerves are cut, some patients may experience less dry eye, and the cornea may maintain more of its natural strength. This can be especially relevant for people with thinner corneas or those who are particularly worried about flap-related complications.
Versus conventional LASEK
Classic LASEK is a surface ablation procedure. The surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) is loosened or removed, and an excimer laser reshapes the surface directly. The epithelium then needs to grow back, which can be painful and may require a longer recovery.
SMILE LASEK, in contrast, works inside the cornea with a femtosecond laser. The surface layer is largely preserved, and only a small incision is made. This can reduce pain and speed up functional recovery compared with traditional surface LASEK for many patients, although individual experiences vary.
Versus SMILE LASIK, SMILE pro, and SILK
SMILE LASEK, SMILE LASIK, SMILE pro, and SILK are all small-incision lenticule procedures. The main differences relate to the generation of laser platform, laser speed, and certain technical details.
SMILE pro on the VISUMAX 800 platform offers very fast laser time, often under about 9 seconds, which can improve comfort and reduce suction time. SMILE LASIK on VISUMAX 500 is a well-established system with long-term data. SILK uses the ELITA platform with very fine laser spot precision, representing another evolution of lenticule technology.
SMILE LASEK is positioned as a flapless, tissue-saving option closer to surface ablation in terms of corneal preservation, while still benefiting from the small-incision lenticule concept.
Typical goals of SMILE LASEK
The main goals are to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses for myopia and astigmatism, while emphasizing comfort, corneal stability, and long-term eye health. It is not a cosmetic procedure but a functional vision correction method performed at an ophthalmology clinic.
Who may consider SMILE LASEK
SMILE LASEK is generally considered for adults with myopia and astigmatism who want laser vision correction but are concerned about flap-related issues or have relatively thin corneas.
Typical candidacy factors include:
Stable prescription
Your glasses or contact lens prescription should be stable for at least 1 to 2 years. Large recent changes may indicate that your eyes are still changing, and surgery might need to be delayed.
Adequate corneal thickness and shape
Detailed corneal topography and tomography are used to measure thickness and curvature and to screen for early signs of keratoconus or other irregularities. Even though SMILE LASEK is tissue-saving, there must still be enough safe corneal thickness.
Healthy ocular surface
You should not have uncontrolled dry eye, severe allergies affecting the eyes, or active infections. Dry eye can often be treated first, then surgery reconsidered.
No progressive corneal disease
Conditions like keratoconus or suspicious corneal shapes may rule out corneal laser procedures. In such cases, lens-based options might be safer.
Retinal health
High myopia is often associated with retinal thinning or weak spots. A retinal examination is important to check for tears, holes, or other issues that may need treatment before or after vision correction.
Realistic expectations
You should understand that no method can guarantee perfect vision. There is a possibility of undercorrection, overcorrection, visual disturbances such as glare and halos, or the need for enhancement procedures.
Final suitability for SMILE LASEK versus SMILE pro, SILK, 2DAY LASEK, or lens implantation can only be decided after a full pre-operative eye examination and consultation with an ophthalmologist.
Clinic strengths for SMILE LASEK near Gangnam Station
This ophthalmology clinic has been operating near Gangnam Station on Gangnam-daero since 2005, in the same location for about 20 years. Over time, it has become strongly focused on SMILE family procedures and corneal safety.
As of 2023, the clinic reports a cumulative total of about 300,000 eyes for vision correction and cataract surgery combined. As of April 2026, it has performed about 15,000 eyes of SMILE pro, showing high-volume experience with small-incision lenticule techniques.
In 2021, it became the first clinic in Korea to join the ZEISS SMILE GOLD CLUB. In 2023, it was designated as a ZEISS SMILE pro CENTER, and in 2026 it became a SILK TRAINING Center. These designations indicate that major manufacturers trust the clinic as a reference and training site for advanced lenticule-based vision correction.
The clinic operates a dedicated SMILE operating room, designed specifically for lenticule-based procedures. This helps maintain a controlled environment and a workflow optimized for SMILE LASEK, SMILE pro, SMILE LASIK, and SILK.
Throughout its communication, the clinic emphasizes a simple principle: skill and experience are prioritized to protect vision, rather than focusing only on the latest machine.
Equipment lineup and matching the device to the eye
A key strength of this Gangnam Station ophthalmology clinic is that it owns and operates multiple high-end laser platforms and safety devices, and selects the system according to each patient’s eyes, not the other way around.
For SMILE-related and other procedures, the lineup includes:
VISUMAX 800 (ZEISS)
Used for SMILE pro. Introduced in 2023, it offers very fast laser application, usually under about 9 seconds. The short laser time can improve comfort and reduce the duration of suction on the eye.
Two VISUMAX 500 units (ZEISS)
Used for SMILE LASIK. The clinic introduced VISUMAX 500 in 2016 and established a dual system in 2019. Having two units allows stable scheduling, flexibility, and a backup option in case one machine is under maintenance.
ELITA (Johnson and Johnson)
Used for SILK procedures. Introduced in 2025, ELITA offers approximately 1 micrometer laser spot precision, reflecting the clinic’s commitment to next-generation small-incision technologies.
AMARIS RED 1050s
This excimer laser is used for 2DAY LASEK with 7D eye tracking. It becomes relevant when SMILE LASEK or other lenticule procedures are not suitable and a surface ablation approach is safer.
FEMTO LDV Z8
Used for laser cataract surgery. This indicates that the clinic also handles lens-based solutions for presbyopia and cataract, which can be important for older patients considering vision correction.
KXL SYSTEM
Used for corneal cross-linking (EXTRA) to strengthen the cornea in selected cases. This can be combined with certain procedures when indicated to enhance corneal stability.
Clareon PanOptix Pro
A premium multifocal intraocular lens used for presbyopia and cataract surgery. It is part of the clinic’s lens-based vision correction options.
For SMILE LASEK candidates, the main message is that the clinic matches the device to the eye. After detailed measurements, the ophthalmologist decides whether SMILE LASEK, SMILE pro, SILK, 2DAY LASEK, or a lens-based solution is more appropriate.
Medical staff and safety system
All seven doctors at this clinic are board-certified ophthalmologists. Several have backgrounds as professors or clinical instructors at university hospitals, including subspecialists in retina.
The representative director is an ophthalmologist with a medical doctorate. He previously served as faculty at a major Catholic university medical center and, as of 2024, is an adjunct faculty member in ophthalmology. He also runs an educational YouTube channel focused on eye health and vision correction.
Other members of the team include former clinical instructors and professors from large university hospitals, with experience in cataract surgery, refractive surgery, and retinal diseases. Having retina specialists in-house is particularly important, because many SMILE LASEK candidates are moderately to highly myopic, and high myopia is associated with retinal risks.
Overall, the team is structured similarly to a university-hospital level group in terms of training and subspecialty coverage, while still functioning as a dedicated ophthalmology clinic focused on vision correction and cataract care.
Pre-operative examination and counseling
For SMILE LASEK, the clinic follows a thorough pre-operative protocol. This usually includes:
Detailed refraction and visual acuity testing
Your exact prescription is measured multiple times, including under cycloplegia (temporary relaxation of focusing muscles) when needed.
Corneal topography and tomography
These tests map the curvature and thickness of your cornea in three dimensions and help detect early keratoconus or other irregularities that might make corneal laser surgery unsafe.
Pupil size, tear film, and dry eye evaluation
Pupil size can influence night vision symptoms such as halos and glare. Tear film tests help identify dry eye, which may need treatment before or after surgery.
Intraocular pressure and optic nerve assessment
These measurements help screen for glaucoma or risk of glaucoma.
Retinal examination
Retina specialists in the clinic can examine the back of your eye for lattice degeneration, holes, tears, or other conditions. If necessary, they can treat retinal issues before proceeding with vision correction.
The clinic also offers a big-data based online suitability analysis system on its website. This tool can suggest possible procedures, but it is only supplementary. It is not a medical diagnosis, and final decisions are always made by an ophthalmologist after an in-person examination.
Counseling is based on objective examination results. If SMILE LASEK is not the safest option, the clinic may recommend SMILE pro, SILK, 2DAY LASEK, or lens implantation instead.
Safety measures and complication prevention
The clinic emphasizes prevention of complications for SMILE LASEK and other refractive procedures.
AVELLINO DNA testing
Since around 2011, the clinic has used AVELLINO DNA testing, outsourced to a specialized laboratory, to screen for certain genetic corneal dystrophies. This is one of several tools used to reduce the risk of post-operative corneal ectasia in at-risk individuals.
Corneal cross-linking (EXTRA)
The KXL SYSTEM allows corneal cross-linking in selected cases. This procedure uses riboflavin drops and ultraviolet light to strengthen corneal collagen. It may be considered when corneal stability is a concern.
Strict screening and deferral when needed
Patients with suspicious corneal shapes, unstable refraction, uncontrolled dry eye, or other risk factors may be advised to delay or avoid surgery. In some cases, lens-based procedures are suggested instead of further corneal tissue removal.
It is important to understand that no surgery is risk-free. Even with SMILE LASEK, possible side effects include dry eye, glare, halos, fluctuating vision, undercorrection or overcorrection, infection, inflammation, and very rare vision-threatening complications. Individual risk varies and should be discussed in detail with your surgeon.
Comparison: SMILE LASEK vs other options
SMILE LASEK vs SMILE pro and SMILE LASIK
All three are small-incision lenticule procedures. SMILE pro on VISUMAX 800 offers very fast laser time and may improve comfort and efficiency. SMILE LASIK on VISUMAX 500 is a proven platform with many years of clinical data.
The choice among SMILE LASEK, SMILE pro, and SMILE LASIK depends on corneal thickness, curvature, the degree of myopia and astigmatism, and the surgeon’s judgment after full examination.
SMILE LASEK vs SILK
SILK on the ELITA platform is another next-generation lenticule procedure with very fine laser spot size. As a SILK training center since 2026, the clinic has experience teaching other surgeons how to use this technology.
Some corneas may be better suited to SILK, others to SMILE pro or SMILE LASEK. The decision is individualized.
SMILE LASEK vs 2DAY LASEK
2DAY LASEK is a surface ablation technique using the AMARIS RED 1050s excimer laser with 7D eye tracking. It is often considered when lenticule procedures are not suitable, for example in certain thin or irregular corneas.
Because 2DAY LASEK reshapes the corneal surface, the early post-operative period can involve more discomfort and slower visual recovery compared with lenticule-based methods for many patients. However, modern surface techniques have improved significantly, and in some cases they are the safer option.
SMILE LASEK vs lens implantation (ICL, GLAZE, PhakiFlex KPL)
For very high myopia or particularly thin corneas, adding a lens inside the eye without removing corneal tissue may be safer than further corneal reshaping.
This clinic has extensive experience with GLAZE lens implantation. It was the first in Korea to perform GLAZE in 2019, reached 1,000 GLAZE eyes by 2022, and 3,000 Optiflex GLAZE eyes by 2025. These milestones show that lens-based solutions are a major part of its practice.
For some patients, especially with extreme prescriptions or borderline corneas, the doctor may recommend lens implantation instead of SMILE LASEK.
Cataract and presbyopia context
The clinic also runs a presbyopia and cataract center, offering laser cataract surgery with FEMTO LDV Z8 and multifocal intraocular lenses such as Clareon PanOptix Pro.
This is relevant because some older patients who inquire about SMILE LASEK may already have early lens opacity or significant presbyopia. In such cases, lens-based surgery can sometimes provide a more suitable long-term solution than corneal laser.
The same team that performs SMILE LASEK also manages cataract and presbyopia surgery, allowing integrated planning for your vision over the long term.
Retina clinic and long-term follow-up
The clinic operates a separate retina center staffed by fellowship-trained retina specialists.
For SMILE LASEK candidates, this matters because high myopia can be associated with retinal thinning, lattice degeneration, and a higher risk of retinal tears or detachment. Having retina specialists in-house allows prompt evaluation and treatment if problems are found before or after vision correction.
Many patients prefer a comprehensive ophthalmology clinic with a retina center, rather than a narrow refractive-only facility, because it provides a safety net for long-term eye health.
Online consultation and pre-visit preparation
If you are an overseas patient considering SMILE LASEK in Seoul, you can usually start with an online consultation.
You can prepare the following information:
Your current glasses or contact lens prescription, including cylinder and axis for astigmatism.
Any previous eye surgery or trauma.
History of eye diseases such as keratoconus, glaucoma, retinal tears, or severe dry eye.
Systemic conditions such as diabetes, autoimmune disease, or medications that might affect healing.
Lifestyle needs, such as night driving, sports, or frequent digital device use.
The clinic’s website, blog, Instagram, YouTube channel, and messaging app channel provide educational content. The representative director’s YouTube channel in particular explains why ophthalmologists may recommend SMILE LASIK, SMILE LASEK, or related procedures in different situations.
These online resources are for education, not diagnosis. Final recommendations are made only after a complete in-person examination.
Expected Korea visit timeline for SMILE LASEK
While individual schedules vary, a typical timeline for international patients might look like this:
Day 1: Arrival and initial examination
You arrive in Seoul and visit the clinic near Gangnam Station for full pre-operative testing and consultation. Plan several hours for detailed measurements, retinal examination, and counseling.
Day 2 or 3: Surgery day
If your tests confirm that SMILE LASEK is suitable and you decide to proceed, surgery can often be scheduled within 1 to 2 days, depending on availability and your travel schedule.
The procedure itself usually takes only a few minutes per eye. Most of the time is spent on preparation and post-operative instructions.
Day 3 to 7: Early follow-up
You will have at least one early follow-up visit to check healing, vision, and any early side effects. Many patients can walk around and do light sightseeing, but you should avoid rubbing your eyes, swimming, and dusty environments.
Day 7 to 10: Additional check and departure
A further check may be scheduled before you leave Korea. The doctor will confirm that the cornea is stable and that you understand how to continue using eye drops and protecting your eyes after returning home.
Some patients prefer to stay for about 7 to 10 days in total. The exact length depends on your healing, your schedule, and the surgeon’s recommendation.
Aftercare and long-term follow-up
After SMILE LASEK, you will typically use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops for a period determined by your surgeon, along with lubricating drops for dry eye symptoms.
You should:
Avoid rubbing your eyes.
Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, and saunas for the period advised.
Use protective eyewear if you are in windy or dusty environments.
Follow all scheduled follow-up visits.
Once you return home, you should continue regular eye examinations with a local ophthalmologist. If you notice sudden vision changes, flashes of light, a curtain-like shadow, or severe pain, seek urgent eye care.
Frequently asked questions about SMILE LASEK in Korea
Is SMILE LASEK painful
Most patients feel pressure during the laser part and some discomfort afterward, but severe pain is uncommon. Compared with classic surface LASEK, SMILE LASEK may offer less pain and faster comfort for many people, though individual experiences differ.
How soon can I see clearly
Many patients notice improvement within the first few days, but vision can fluctuate for several weeks. Final stabilization may take a few months. Your doctor will explain what to expect based on your prescription and corneal condition.
Is SMILE LASEK safer than LASIK
Both methods have good safety records when performed on suitable eyes by experienced surgeons. SMILE LASEK is flapless and may better preserve corneal nerves and biomechanics, which can be an advantage for some patients. However, it is not automatically safer for everyone. Proper screening is more important than the name of the procedure.
Can I combine SMILE LASEK with corneal cross-linking
In selected cases, the doctor may recommend combining or staging corneal cross-linking (EXTRA) to enhance corneal stability. This decision is individualized and based on your corneal shape, thickness, and risk factors.
What if I am not a candidate for SMILE LASEK
If SMILE LASEK is not suitable, the clinic may suggest SMILE pro, SILK, 2DAY LASEK, or lens implantation such as ICL, GLAZE, or PhakiFlex KPL. In some cases, especially with early cataract or significant presbyopia, lens-based surgery may be more appropriate.
Are results guaranteed
No. All surgical and laser procedures carry potential risks and side effects, and outcomes vary between individuals. The clinic does not guarantee specific results. The goal is to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses while prioritizing safety and long-term eye health.
Soft call to action for online consultation
If you are considering SMILE LASEK in Seoul and would like to know whether it might suit your eyes, the next step is a professional evaluation.
You can start by contacting the ophthalmology clinic near Gangnam Station through its website or messaging channels, sharing your current prescription and basic medical history. The team can then advise you on likely options and help you plan a visit for full examination and counseling.
Before making any decision, ensure you have a detailed face-to-face consultation with an ophthalmologist, discuss all available procedures, and weigh the benefits and risks according to your own priorities and lifestyle.
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