I’m considering getting vision correction surgery in Korea, but I’m torn between SMILE and LASIK. Can anyone share the pros and cons of each, especially in the context of Korean clinics? For example, how do they compare in terms of recovery time, side effects (like dry eyes or night vision issues), and long-term results? Also, which clinics or hospitals in Korea are known to specialize in SMILE vs. LASIK and have a strong reputation among locals or expats? I’d really appreciate any personal experiences, recommendations, or even things to watch out for!
My cousin recently had SMILE surgery in Seoul, and the experience was smooth and surprisingly quick. She chose SMILE over LASIK mainly because it is less invasive and usually comes with a faster recovery period. The overall process, from consultation to surgery, felt very well-organized and professional, and she mentioned that the eye evaluation before the procedure was very detailed and reassuring.
From what she shared, SMILE tends to cause fewer post-surgery dry eye symptoms compared to LASIK, which was one of her main concerns. LASIK, on the other hand, is still widely performed and can sometimes be recommended for certain higher prescriptions or specific eye conditions. In her case, the doctor explained both options clearly, including the benefits and possible side effects of each.After understanding everything, she felt confident choosing SMILE because it matched her lifestyle and recovery expectations better.