HEALINGEYE CLINIC KOREA
Achieve 20/20 vision with Healing Eye Clinic
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FAQ
Q. How can I know if I’m a suitable candidate for vision correction surgery?
A.
The most accurate way to determine your eligibility is through a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with a specialist.
In general, the following criteria are considered:
- Adults aged 18 or older
- Stable vision for the past 6–12 months (no significant changes)
- No active eye diseases (e.g., severe dry eyes, keratoconus, uveitis, glaucoma)
- Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
Other factors such as corneal thickness, pupil size, and overall health must also be evaluated.
Therefore, it is essential to visit the clinic for detailed testing and a professional consultation.
Q. What should I prepare before surgery? How long do I need to stop wearing contact lenses?
A. To ensure accurate and safe examination and surgical results, please follow these guidelines:
Lens Discontinuation Period:
- Soft lenses: Stop wearing at least 1 week before the exam
- Toric soft lenses and RGP (hard lenses): Stop at least 2 weeks prior
- Ortho-K (Dream Lenses): Stop at least 1 month in advance
On the Day of Surgery:
- Avoid using perfume, hair spray, or colored cosmetics (especially eye makeup)
- Wear comfortable clothing (the surgery room may be cool)
- Driving after surgery is not recommended—please use public transportation or be accompanied by a guardian.
Q. What can I learn during the consultation? Is a detailed eye examination really necessary?
A. Yes, both the comprehensive examination and consultation are essential for safe and satisfying surgical results.
- Detailed Eye Examination: Takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and includes over 50 advanced tests to thoroughly assess your eye health.
These include vision testing, intraocular pressure, corneal thickness, corneal topography, pupil size, dry eye evaluation, as well as retina and optic nerve condition. - Consultation: Based on your test results, we will recommend the most suitable vision correction option(s) for your eyes. We will explain the surgical process, benefits and limitations of each method, expected visual outcomes, possible side effects and complications, postoperative care, and cost. Our goal is to help you fully understand all aspects of the surgery so you can make a well-informed decision with confidence.
Q. How painful is the surgery?
A. Before the procedure, anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye, so most patients feel little to no pain during the surgery itself.
You may experience slight pressure, blurred vision, or hear machine sounds during the laser treatment.
Depending on the type of surgery (especially LASEK), you may feel some discomfort such as a foreign body sensation, stinging, tearing, or mild pain for a few hours to 2–3 days after the procedure once the anesthesia wears off.
However, these symptoms are generally well managed with the prescribed eye drops and pain relievers.
Q. How long does the actual surgery take?
A. The actual laser application or lens insertion time is very short.
For example, in procedures like LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE, the laser treatment per eye typically takes just a few seconds to a couple of minutes.
Including preparation, eye sterilization, equipment setup, and post-surgical steps, the total time spent in the operating room is about 15 to 30 minutes for both eyes.
(For reference: LASIK/SMILE usually takes about 5–10 minutes; ICL surgery takes approximately 20–30 minutes.)
Q. When will my vision improve after surgery? How long does it take to fully stabilize?
A. The speed of visual recovery varies depending on the type of surgery and individual differences.
- LASIK / SMILE: Most patients experience noticeable improvement by the next day, with 80–90% of target vision typically recovered within 1–2 weeks.
- LASEK: A protective lens is worn for 3–5 days after surgery. Vision gradually improves after the lens is removed.
Initial blurriness is common, and vision stabilizes slowly over 1–2 months. - ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens): Good vision can often be achieved by the next day, with stabilization occurring within 1–2 weeks.
For all procedures, it may take 1 to 3 months—or in some cases up to 6 months—for vision to fully stabilize and reach its optimal quality, depending on the individual.
Q. How should I use eye drops after surgery, and for how long?
A. After surgery, you will be prescribed eye drops such as antibiotics to prevent infection, anti-inflammatory drops to reduce inflammation, and artificial tears to relieve dryness.
The type, frequency, and duration of each drop may vary depending on the surgical method and your individual healing progress.
It is very important to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
Typically, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are used for several weeks to 1–2 months, while artificial tears can be used as needed—often for several months—whenever your eyes feel dry.
Q. Are there any side effects after surgery? What symptoms might occur?
A. As with any surgical procedure, there is a possibility of side effects or complications.
At Healing Eye Clinic, we minimize these risks through thorough preoperative examinations, state-of-the-art equipment, and experienced medical staff.
Common temporary symptoms after surgery may include:
- Dry eyes: The most common side effect, usually manageable with artificial tears and lifestyle adjustments
- Night glare or halos: May occur for a few weeks or months but typically improve over time
- Temporary vision fluctuations or blurriness
- Foreign body sensation, redness, or mild discomfort (especially in the early phase of LASEK)
In rare cases, more serious complications such as infection, inflammation, corneal haze, or vision loss may occur.
These risks will be fully explained during your consultation, and regular follow-up appointments are essential to detect and treat any issues early.
Q. Are there any additional costs beyond the surgery fee?
A. The surgery fee we provide generally includes:
- Comprehensive preoperative examination
- Surgery cost
- Basic eye drops provided on the day of surgery
- Regular follow-up appointments for a set period (e.g., 6 months or 1 year)
Additional costs may apply in the following cases:
- If special lenses are required due to your eye condition (e.g., premium toric ICLs)
- If additional treatment is needed after surgery (e.g., intensive dry eye care, corneal strengthening, or retinal procedures)
- Follow-up exams or prescriptions beyond the included period
- Issuance of medical certificates or other official documents
We provide transparent explanations of all expected costs during your consultation.
Q. Is vision correction surgery covered by Korean health insurance? Can foreigners also receive insurance benefits?
A. Vision correction surgeries (such as LASIK, LASEK, SMILE, and ICL) are generally considered elective or cosmetic procedures and are **not** covered by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS).
This applies to both Korean citizens and foreigners.
However, surgeries performed for medical purposes—such as cataract surgery—**may** be covered by NHIS.
Foreigners who reside in Korea and maintain active health insurance status are eligible for the same benefits as Korean citizens.
(*Please note: Additional non-covered costs may apply depending on the type of intraocular lens used.)
For more details, please ask during your consultation.
Q. Is it okay if I don’t speak Korean? How is interpretation provided?
A. Absolutely! At Healing Eye Clinic, we have experienced international coordinators who speak various languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, and Mongolian.
From appointment booking and detailed examinations to consultations with the doctor, surgery, and postoperative care—we provide personalized 1:1 interpretation services at every step to ensure clear communication and a comfortable experience.
Q. How long should I stay in Korea for surgery and recovery?
A. The recommended length of stay varies depending on the type of surgery:
- LASIK / SMILE: Minimum 2–5 days (includes surgery day, next-day check-up, and pre-departure follow-up)
- LASEK: Minimum 2–7 days (to allow for protective lens removal and early recovery monitoring)
- ICL / Cataract Surgery: Minimum 2–7 days (important for initial stabilization and progress checks)
These are general guidelines. Your final schedule should be determined in consultation with your doctor and international coordinator, based on your recovery progress and flight schedule.
A final check-up before departure is mandatory.
Q. Do you offer support for accommodation or airport pickup?
A. Yes. At Healing Eye Clinic, we provide or coordinate the following services to ensure comfort and convenience for our international patients:
Accommodation: We can recommend nearby partner hotels or residences.
Some accommodations offer special discounts for our patients, and we can assist with the reservation upon request.
For details and pricing, please consult with your assigned international coordinator.
Q. How can I know if I’m a suitable candidate for vision correction surgery?
A.
The most accurate way to determine your eligibility is through a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with a specialist.
In general, the following criteria are considered:
- Adults aged 18 or older
- Stable vision for the past 6–12 months (no significant changes)
- No active eye diseases (e.g., severe dry eyes, keratoconus, uveitis, glaucoma)
- Not currently pregnant or breastfeeding
Other factors such as corneal thickness, pupil size, and overall health must also be evaluated.
Therefore, it is essential to visit the clinic for detailed testing and a professional consultation.
Q. What should I prepare before surgery? How long do I need to stop wearing contact lenses?
A. To ensure accurate and safe examination and surgical results, please follow these guidelines:
Lens Discontinuation Period:
- Soft lenses: Stop wearing at least 1 week before the exam
- Toric soft lenses and RGP (hard lenses): Stop at least 2 weeks prior
- Ortho-K (Dream Lenses): Stop at least 1 month in advance
On the Day of Surgery:
- Avoid using perfume, hair spray, or colored cosmetics (especially eye makeup)
- Wear comfortable clothing (the surgery room may be cool)
- Driving after surgery is not recommended—please use public transportation or be accompanied by a guardian.
Q. What can I learn during the consultation? Is a detailed eye examination really necessary?
A. Yes, both the comprehensive examination and consultation are essential for safe and satisfying surgical results.
- Detailed Eye Examination: Takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and includes over 50 advanced tests to thoroughly assess your eye health.
These include vision testing, intraocular pressure, corneal thickness, corneal topography, pupil size, dry eye evaluation, as well as retina and optic nerve condition. - Consultation: Based on your test results, we will recommend the most suitable vision correction option(s) for your eyes. We will explain the surgical process, benefits and limitations of each method, expected visual outcomes, possible side effects and complications, postoperative care, and cost. Our goal is to help you fully understand all aspects of the surgery so you can make a well-informed decision with confidence.
Q. How painful is the surgery?
A. Before the procedure, anesthetic eye drops are used to numb the eye, so most patients feel little to no pain during the surgery itself.
You may experience slight pressure, blurred vision, or hear machine sounds during the laser treatment.
Depending on the type of surgery (especially LASEK), you may feel some discomfort such as a foreign body sensation, stinging, tearing, or mild pain for a few hours to 2–3 days after the procedure once the anesthesia wears off.
However, these symptoms are generally well managed with the prescribed eye drops and pain relievers.
Q. How long does the actual surgery take?
A. The actual laser application or lens insertion time is very short.
For example, in procedures like LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE, the laser treatment per eye typically takes just a few seconds to a couple of minutes.
Including preparation, eye sterilization, equipment setup, and post-surgical steps, the total time spent in the operating room is about 15 to 30 minutes for both eyes.
(For reference: LASIK/SMILE usually takes about 5–10 minutes; ICL surgery takes approximately 20–30 minutes.)
Q. When will my vision improve after surgery? How long does it take to fully stabilize?
A. The speed of visual recovery varies depending on the type of surgery and individual differences.
- LASIK / SMILE: Most patients experience noticeable improvement by the next day, with 80–90% of target vision typically recovered within 1–2 weeks.
- LASEK: A protective lens is worn for 3–5 days after surgery. Vision gradually improves after the lens is removed.
Initial blurriness is common, and vision stabilizes slowly over 1–2 months. - ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens): Good vision can often be achieved by the next day, with stabilization occurring within 1–2 weeks.
For all procedures, it may take 1 to 3 months—or in some cases up to 6 months—for vision to fully stabilize and reach its optimal quality, depending on the individual.
Q. How should I use eye drops after surgery, and for how long?
A. After surgery, you will be prescribed eye drops such as antibiotics to prevent infection, anti-inflammatory drops to reduce inflammation, and artificial tears to relieve dryness.
The type, frequency, and duration of each drop may vary depending on the surgical method and your individual healing progress.
It is very important to follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
Typically, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are used for several weeks to 1–2 months, while artificial tears can be used as needed—often for several months—whenever your eyes feel dry.
Q. Are there any side effects after surgery? What symptoms might occur?
A. As with any surgical procedure, there is a possibility of side effects or complications.
At Healing Eye Clinic, we minimize these risks through thorough preoperative examinations, state-of-the-art equipment, and experienced medical staff.
Common temporary symptoms after surgery may include:
- Dry eyes: The most common side effect, usually manageable with artificial tears and lifestyle adjustments
- Night glare or halos: May occur for a few weeks or months but typically improve over time
- Temporary vision fluctuations or blurriness
- Foreign body sensation, redness, or mild discomfort (especially in the early phase of LASEK)
In rare cases, more serious complications such as infection, inflammation, corneal haze, or vision loss may occur.
These risks will be fully explained during your consultation, and regular follow-up appointments are essential to detect and treat any issues early.
Q. Are there any additional costs beyond the surgery fee?
A. The surgery fee we provide generally includes:
- Comprehensive preoperative examination
- Surgery cost
- Basic eye drops provided on the day of surgery
- Regular follow-up appointments for a set period (e.g., 6 months or 1 year)
Additional costs may apply in the following cases:
- If special lenses are required due to your eye condition (e.g., premium toric ICLs)
- If additional treatment is needed after surgery (e.g., intensive dry eye care, corneal strengthening, or retinal procedures)
- Follow-up exams or prescriptions beyond the included period
- Issuance of medical certificates or other official documents
We provide transparent explanations of all expected costs during your consultation.
Q. Is vision correction surgery covered by Korean health insurance? Can foreigners also receive insurance benefits?
A. Vision correction surgeries (such as LASIK, LASEK, SMILE, and ICL) are generally considered elective or cosmetic procedures and are **not** covered by the National Health Insurance Service (NHIS).
This applies to both Korean citizens and foreigners.
However, surgeries performed for medical purposes—such as cataract surgery—**may** be covered by NHIS.
Foreigners who reside in Korea and maintain active health insurance status are eligible for the same benefits as Korean citizens.
(*Please note: Additional non-covered costs may apply depending on the type of intraocular lens used.)
For more details, please ask during your consultation.
Q. Is it okay if I don’t speak Korean? How is interpretation provided?
A. Absolutely! At Healing Eye Clinic, we have experienced international coordinators who speak various languages, including English, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, and Mongolian.
From appointment booking and detailed examinations to consultations with the doctor, surgery, and postoperative care—we provide personalized 1:1 interpretation services at every step to ensure clear communication and a comfortable experience.
Q. How long should I stay in Korea for surgery and recovery?
A. The recommended length of stay varies depending on the type of surgery:
- LASIK / SMILE: Minimum 2–5 days (includes surgery day, next-day check-up, and pre-departure follow-up)
- LASEK: Minimum 2–7 days (to allow for protective lens removal and early recovery monitoring)
- ICL / Cataract Surgery: Minimum 2–7 days (important for initial stabilization and progress checks)
These are general guidelines. Your final schedule should be determined in consultation with your doctor and international coordinator, based on your recovery progress and flight schedule.
A final check-up before departure is mandatory.
Q. Do you offer support for accommodation or airport pickup?
A. Yes. At Healing Eye Clinic, we provide or coordinate the following services to ensure comfort and convenience for our international patients:
Accommodation: We can recommend nearby partner hotels or residences.
Some accommodations offer special discounts for our patients, and we can assist with the reservation upon request.
For details and pricing, please consult with your assigned international coordinator.
