Korea is one of the world’s top destinations for laser vision correction, offering advanced equipment, highly experienced ophthalmologists, and affordable costs. If you’re flying in for LASIK surgery, preparing properly can make your journey smoother and your recovery faster.

Here’s a complete pre-surgery checklist tailored for international patients visiting Korea.

1. Confirm Your Eligibility Before Flying

Not everyone is a candidate for LASIK. Schedule an online or pre-arrival consultation with your chosen clinic to confirm:

• Stable prescription for at least 12 months
• No active dry eye, keratoconus, or corneal thinning
• No autoimmune or uncontrolled systemic conditions
• Age typically over 18 with healthy eye structure

If your cornea is thin, your doctor may suggest LASEK or SMILE instead. Korea’s clinics perform detailed topography and corneal thickness tests to determine the safest option.

2. Stop Wearing Contact Lenses in Advance

Contact lenses can alter your corneal shape, affecting pre-op measurements.

• Soft lenses: Stop wearing 3–7 days before your exam.
• Hard or RGP lenses: Stop wearing 2–3 weeks before.
  Switch to glasses until your screening day to ensure accurate test results.

3. Arrange Travel and Accommodation

Plan to stay in Korea for at least 5–7 days after surgery to attend all follow-up visits.
Choose accommodation near your clinic — many LASIK centers in Gangnam, Myeongdong, or Apgujeong are close to subway lines and hotels.
Avoid scheduling sightseeing or long flights immediately after surgery; rest is essential during the first few days.

4. Prepare Required Documents and Identification

Bring the following:

• Passport or Alien Registration Card (if applicable)
• Previous prescription or medical records
• Travel insurance information
• Clinic confirmation (email, KakaoTalk, or printed letter)

If your clinic offers tax-free benefits for medical tourists, bring your passport for verification.

5. Plan for Surgery Day

• Eat lightly before the procedure unless instructed otherwise.
• Do not wear eye makeup, perfume, or lotion on surgery day.
• Wear comfortable clothing — avoid turtlenecks or hoodies.
• Arrange transportation — avoid driving yourself after surgery.
• Bring sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright light afterward.

The entire process, including pre-tests and surgery, usually takes 2–3 hours.

6. Understand the Procedure

LASIK surgery is painless and quick. You’ll receive numbing eye drops, and the laser reshapes your cornea in under 10 minutes per eye.
After surgery, vision will be blurry for several hours but improve rapidly overnight.

7. Prepare for Aftercare

Korean eye clinics provide detailed aftercare kits, typically including:

• Antibiotic and steroid eye drops
• Artificial tears
• Protective eye shields
• Post-op schedule instructions

Follow all drop schedules precisely and avoid rubbing your eyes. Sleep with eye shields for the first few nights.

8. Manage Your Downtime

• Rest your eyes as much as possible for the first 24 hours.
• Avoid screen time, reading, and direct air-conditioning.
• Skip makeup, swimming, and saunas for at least 1–2 weeks.
• Wear sunglasses outdoors and during daytime walks.
• Expect mild dryness — keep artificial tears handy at all times.

9. Attend Follow-Up Appointments

Most clinics schedule:

• Day 1 check-up after surgery
• 1-week follow-up
• 1-month evaluation (if you stay long-term or return later)

If you’re flying home soon, request an international patient summary and guidance for continued care in your country.

10. Prepare Mentally

LASIK can transform your life, but nerves are normal. Remember:

• The procedure is painless under topical anesthesia.
• Most patients reach 20/20 vision within a few days.
• Full stability takes weeks to months, depending on your healing speed.

Bring sunglasses, patience, and a positive mindset — your clearer vision is worth it.

Final Tips for International Patients

• Book early to align your consultation, surgery, and post-op schedule.
• Confirm English-speaking staff availability.
• Ask about refund or reschedule policies before payment.
• Carry a credit card that supports KRW payments to avoid currency conversion issues.
• Save clinic contact info on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk for easy communication.

Bottom Line

Preparing well for your LASIK surgery in Korea ensures comfort, safety, and peace of mind. From adjusting your contact lens routine to arranging travel and aftercare, following this checklist helps you enjoy a smooth, stress-free vision correction experience.

Korea’s leading eye clinics combine precision technology, transparent pricing, and attentive care — making it one of the best countries in the world for LASIK.