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Planning your trip
Planning vision correction surgery in Seoul: a trip checklist
From the first message to the check-up afterwards: the steps, the contact lens rules and the airport route, in the order you will meet them.
Contents
Flying in for eye surgery means the sequence matters as much as the procedure. The exam decides the procedure, and the contact lens break comes before the exam.
The steps below follow the clinic's own preparation guidance. Start by messaging the clinic with your prescription and the dates you can be in Seoul.
Step by step
- Message your prescription and datesAn international patient coordinator is assigned to you.
- Get your options and a scheduleProcedure options, scheduling, and help with visa and insurance documents. Ask about pricing, as the clinic publishes no price list.
- Stop wearing contact lensesSoft lenses 5 days, rigid or toric lenses 2 weeks, Ortho-K lenses 1 month before your exam.
- Exam, then surgery in GangnamThe exam decides the procedure. Interpreters are available.
- Check-up after 1–2 weeksThen annual eye exams, with or without surgery.
What the exam checks
A comprehensive exam checks corneal thickness, how much tissue can be removed safely, endothelial cell health and astigmatism. That data is used to plan your treatment.
Bring your current glasses prescription and tell your coordinator which lenses you wear, because the length of the contact lens break depends on the type.
On the day of surgery
- No makeup other than basic skincare, no perfume or hairspray.
- Wear comfortable clothes.
- Do not drive afterwards.
Documents and insurance
The coordinator helps with visa and insurance documents. U.S. insurance claims are accepted from Cigna, United Healthcare and TieCare, and the clinic asks you to confirm terms in advance.
Ask about all of this in your first message, together with the contact lens question above, so nothing is left for the week you land.
Getting here from Incheon airport
Airport bus No. 6009 runs every 15–45 minutes. Get off at Nonhyeon Station and walk about 300 m. The full route, hours and map are on the location page.
Frequently asked questions
How long before the exam should I stop wearing contact lenses?
Soft lenses 5 days, rigid or toric lenses 2 weeks and Ortho-K lenses 1 month before your exam.
When is the follow-up visit?
A check-up within 1–2 weeks, then optional unless your vision changes. Annual eye exams are still recommended.
Are interpreters available?
Yes. The clinic has interpreters and an international patient coordinator. If an interpreter is unavailable, a 24-hour interpretation service is used.
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