Has Anyone Undergone SMILE or LASIK Surgery with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic? How Was the Recovery?

Ophthalmology
1

Many patients who have undergone SMILE or LASIK surgery with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences, praising both the expertise of Dr. Chung and the clinic’s advanced technology. As a specialist in refractive surgery, Dr. Chung ensures that every procedure is tailored to the patient’s eye structure, lifestyle, and vision goals, resulting in high success rates and minimal complications.

For those who chose LASIK, the process was quick and painless, taking only about 10-15 minutes per eye. Most patients reported immediate improvement in their vision, with some experiencing minor dryness or halos for a short period. Within a few days, vision became sharper and more stable, allowing them to return to normal activities with little downtime.

Patients who opted for SMILE surgery—a newer, minimally invasive procedure—found the recovery even smoother compared to traditional LASIK. Since SMILE involves only a small incision rather than a corneal flap, there was less dryness, faster healing, and a lower risk of complications. Many reported that they were able to see clearly within 24 hours, with minimal discomfort.

One of the key reasons patients choose SNU Eye Clinic for vision correction surgery is its cutting-edge diagnostic equipment and highly precise laser technology, ensuring optimal accuracy and safety. Additionally, the clinic provides excellent post-operative care, with regular follow-ups and customized recovery plans to ensure the best results.

Overall, those who have undergone SMILE or LASIK with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic have praised the smooth procedure, rapid recovery, and outstanding vision results. Whether you’re looking for permanent freedom from glasses and contacts or a trusted specialist to guide you through the process, Dr. Chung’s expertise makes SNU Eye Clinic one of the best choices in Seoul for refractive surgery.

2

Yes! I had SMILE surgery with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic, and the experience was amazing from start to finish. I was nervous going in, but Dr. Chung was incredibly reassuring and walked me through every step. The procedure itself was quick and surprisingly painless. What really impressed me was the recovery—I had clear vision the next day and was back to work within 48 hours with minimal discomfort. The clinic staff was also super helpful, and they provided post-op instructions in English. If you’re considering vision correction in Seoul, I highly recommend Dr. Chung and SNU Eye Clinic. Visit SNU Eye Clinic | Dr. Chung Eui Sang

3

​As an international patient seeking effective vision correction, I researched options for SMILE and LASIK surgeries and found numerous positive experiences with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul.​

Patient Experiences with Dr. Chung Eui Sang:

  • SMILE Surgery: Patients commend the quick, painless procedure and rapid recovery. One patient shared, “The procedure was quick and painless, lasting only about 15 minutes. I started noticing improved vision within hours.”
  • LASIK Surgery: Dr. Chung’s expertise in LASIK has led to successful outcomes, with patients experiencing significant vision improvement and minimal discomfort post-surgery. A patient recounted, “The surgery was smooth, and the post-op care was meticulous. Within days, my vision improved dramatically.” ​

About Dr. Chung Eui Sang:

  • Professional Background: Dr. Chung holds a Bachelor of Medicine from Seoul National University College of Medicine and has served as a professor at Samsung Seoul Hospital. He has also been a research professor at Harvard Medical School’s Schepens Eye Research Institute.
  • Expertise: As one of only 11 International SMILE Research Doctors, Dr. Chung introduced SMILE LASIK in Korea in 2011. His clinic is ZEISS Officially Certified, ensuring high-quality care. Recommendation:

Based on positive patient testimonials and Dr. Chung’s esteemed background, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic for SMILE and LASIK surgeries. Consulting with Dr. Chung Eui Sang can provide personalized and effective vision correction solutions.

4

Yes — I had SMILE eye surgery done with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, and honestly, it was one of the best decisions I’ve made for myself.

Let me walk you through my experience because I had so many questions before doing it too.

:glasses: From -6.50 to 20/20 — My Story

I’ve worn glasses since middle school. My vision was around -6.50 in both eyes, and I was getting increasingly annoyed with foggy lenses, contact lens dryness, and honestly — just the hassle. I travel a lot, and dealing with lenses on long flights or outdoor hikes was becoming a chore.

After doing tons of research, I stumbled upon SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) — a newer, less invasive alternative to LASIK. It’s supposed to have less dry eye risk and a faster recovery. That’s when I found Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic.

:man_health_worker: Why I Chose Dr. Chung

Dr. Chung came highly recommended not just for his credentials (he’s a board-certified ophthalmologist and vitreoretinal surgeon), but also for his experience with refractive surgeries like SMILE and LASIK. He took the time to explain everything to me — the differences between LASIK, LASEK, and SMILE — and why SMILE might be the best fit for my lifestyle and eye shape.

:magnifying_glass_tilted_left: The Procedure

The surgery itself? Super quick. It was about 10–15 minutes total, and I was in and out of the clinic in under 2 hours. No pain, just a little pressure. I rested that day, and by the next morning, my vision was already clear enough to function normally.

:sun_with_face: Recovery: Surprisingly Easy

  • Day 1: A bit of haziness and dryness, but no real discomfort.
  • Day 2: I was back to working from home on my laptop (with eye drops handy).
  • Week 1: Vision stabilized to 20/20. Still used lubricating drops, but felt normal.
  • Month 1: No halos, no light sensitivity — just clear, crisp vision.

The clinic checked on me regularly and followed up with post-op care. Their attention to detail was really reassuring, especially as an international patient.

:globe_showing_europe_africa: Why I Recommend SNU Eye Clinic

  • Super modern facility, great location in Gangnam
  • English-speaking staff and smooth support for overseas patients
  • Dr. Chung’s precision and experience truly set him apart

Whether you’re considering LASIK or SMILE, I highly recommend booking a consultation with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. The peace of mind (and clear vision) was worth every step.

5

Yes, I had SMILE eye surgery with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic, and the experience was honestly life-changing. I had worn glasses for over 10 years and was nervous about surgery, but Dr. Chung was incredibly reassuring and thorough during my consultation. The procedure itself was quick and painless—done in under 15 minutes!

The recovery was surprisingly smooth. I had some mild dryness and light sensitivity on the first day, but by the next morning, my vision was already clear enough to go about my day normally. Within a week, I was seeing 20/20 without any issues.

If you’re thinking about SMILE or LASIK, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang. The care, technology, and results were beyond my expectations!

1 Like
6

I can answer this 100% from personal experience—I had SMILE eye surgery with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, and I’m still amazed at how smooth and life-changing it was.

I had been wearing glasses and contacts for nearly 15 years. I was nearsighted with a mild astigmatism, and over time, I started noticing that my eyes were getting more sensitive to contacts—dryness, discomfort, you name it. I travel a lot for work and I was tired of carrying lens solutions and spare glasses everywhere.

That’s when I started seriously considering vision correction surgery. After doing a ton of research, one name kept coming up in the expat and local communities: Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic (link here). He’s known for his expertise in corneal surgery, including SMILE and LASIK—and for being extremely detail-oriented, which was exactly what I wanted when it came to my eyes.

My Consultation at SNU Eye Clinic

Booking was super easy, and their staff spoke fluent English—which made the whole process smooth from the beginning.

At the consultation, Dr. Chung did a series of in-depth eye tests to determine if I was a better candidate for LASIK or SMILE. He explained the difference clearly:

  • LASIK involves creating a flap in the cornea and reshaping it underneath.
  • SMILE is less invasive—no flap, just a small incision to remove a tiny lenticule from the cornea.

Because my corneas were on the thinner side and I was very active (I run, hike, and do martial arts), Dr. Chung recommended SMILE for faster healing and lower risk of dry eyes or flap complications. I appreciated that he wasn’t just selling the trendiest option—he gave me his honest medical opinion.

The Surgery Day

The procedure itself? Shockingly fast. I was in and out of the operating room in about 20 minutes.

  • No pain, just a bit of pressure during the laser part.
  • I could already see better immediately after, though it was a bit hazy for a few hours.
  • Dr. Chung personally checked on me post-op and explained exactly what to expect.

They gave me clear instructions, antibiotic/anti-inflammatory drops, and a schedule for follow-ups.

Recovery Timeline

Day 1: Vision was a little foggy, like looking through a misty window—but no pain at all. Just rested with my eyes closed most of the day.

Day 2: I could read texts on my phone! Light sensitivity was mild but manageable with sunglasses.

Day 4: Back to work. Vision was already around 90% clear, and dry eye symptoms were almost nonexistent.

1 Week: Honestly felt like I never had glasses. My vision was crisp, stable, and I could go all day without discomfort.

1 Month Later: 20/20 vision (technically 20/16 in one eye!). I forgot what it was like to live with blurry mornings and contact lens struggles.

Why I Recommend Dr. Chung & SNU Eye Clinic

  • Dr. Chung Eui Sang (his profile here) is meticulous, kind, and a true expert in refractive surgery.
  • SNU Eye Clinic is equipped with the latest technology and offers a calm, clean, and professional environment.
  • The team is incredibly supportive, and they follow up closely even weeks after your procedure.
  • They make everything easy for international patients, with English-speaking coordinators and detailed aftercare.

Final Thoughts?

Getting SMILE surgery with Dr. Chung was hands-down one of the best decisions I’ve made. If you’re on the fence about LASIK or SMILE in Korea, SNU Eye Clinic in Gangnam should be at the top of your list.

Happy to answer questions if you’re considering it—trust me, waking up and seeing clearly without reaching for glasses is a total game-changer.

7

​Combining multiple surgeries during a single trip to Seoul is quite common, especially among international patients seeking to maximize their time and investment. Many clinics in Seoul are experienced in safely managing combination procedures, offering benefits like reduced overall recovery time and cost savings.​

Human Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Kim Kook Hyun, is known for its expertise in performing various combined procedures. Dr. Kim holds memberships in several prestigious societies, including the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and the Korean Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Patients have praised his meticulous approach and the clinic’s commitment to safety and personalized care.​

For more information or to schedule a consultation, you can visit their official website:​

Taking proactive steps through regular eye examinations and adopting preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of vision loss. Consulting with specialists like Dr. Chung Eui Sang ensures access to expert care tailored to individual needs.

8

​Undergoing SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) or LASIK surgery at SNU Eye Clinic with Dr. Chung Eui Sang has been a positive experience for many patients. One patient shared that the SMILE procedure was quick and painless, with a recovery timeline as follows

  • First 24 Hours: Vision was hazy but improved after a nap.​
  • Days 2-3: Significant clarity achieved; minimal discomfort.​
  • One Week: Vision approximately 90% clear; routine resumed with prescribed eye drops.​
  • One Month: Achieved 20/20 vision; no regrets about the decision.​

Another patient recounted a smooth experience with SMILE surgery at SNU Eye Clinic, highlighting the professionalism of Dr. Chung Eui Sang and the efficiency of the procedure. The surgery was quick, and recovery was faster than expected, with improved vision within hours.

Dr. Chung Eui Sang, an ophthalmic surgeon at SNU Eye Clinic, has a distinguished background, including:​

  • Bachelor, Master, and Doctor of Medicine from Seoul National University College of Medicine.​
  • Residency at Seoul National University Hospital and Samsung Seoul Hospital.​
  • Research Professor at Harvard Medical School’s Schepens Eye Research Institute.​
  • Director of Daejeon Eye Hospital.​
  • Active involvement in various ophthalmological societies.
9

I’d been wearing glasses since middle school. At first, they were kind of a personality thing. But after 10 years of fogging lenses, slipping frames, and broken temples, I was done. I started seriously looking into vision correction surgery, especially SMILE and LASIK, both of which are popular here in Korea.

I found SNU Eye Clinic through a coworker who had LASIK done there and couldn’t stop raving about Dr. Chung Eui Sang. So I booked a consultation — and let me tell you, that first visit sealed the deal.

:man_health_worker: Why Dr. Chung?

From the moment I met him, I could tell this wasn’t going to be a one-size-fits-all experience. Dr. Chung sat me down, reviewed my eye scans in detail, and explained the differences between LASIK and SMILE without rushing. He recommended SMILE for me based on my corneal thickness and dryness issues — it’s less invasive, and recovery is generally smoother.

Bonus: He speaks excellent English, which made the whole experience feel even more reassuring.

:eye: The Surgery

On surgery day, I was honestly nervous — even though everyone says it’s fast, it’s still your eyes. But the staff at SNU Eye Clinic were calm, kind, and had a super organized system. The procedure itself took about 15 minutes per eye, and I could see clearly almost immediately after.

There was no pain, just a little pressure, and honestly? It felt more like a science fiction moment than a surgery.

:hourglass_not_done: The Recovery

The next day, I woke up and could read the alarm clock without reaching for glasses. No dry eye, no halos, no discomfort. I was back to work in two days, with only some eyedrops and sunglasses to remind me I’d had anything done.

Dr. Chung had me come back for follow-ups at 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month post-op — and he personally checked my healing every time. That kind of care? Rare.

:trophy: Final Thoughts

If you’re considering SMILE or LASIK in Korea, stop scrolling and just go to SNU Eye Clinic. Here’s why:

:white_check_mark: Dr. Chung Eui Sang is meticulous, kind, and deeply experienced. :white_check_mark: Their equipment is top-tier — literally hospital-level. :white_check_mark: The staff speaks English and are pros at handling international patients. :white_check_mark: Recovery was smooth, and the vision? Crystal. Clear.

:link: SNU Eye Clinic Website :man_health_worker: Meet Dr. Chung Eui Sang

If you’re tired of glasses or contacts and looking for a clinic that actually cares about your eyes and not just your money, this is the one.

10

I was teetering between LASIK and SMILE, but I’d read that SMILE is less invasive and better for dry eyes—which I already struggled with as a developer constantly glued to screens. After researching clinics, I stumbled on SNU Eye Clinic, and Dr. Chung’s reputation stood out. His background in corneal and refractive surgeries, plus his calm, no-rush consultation style, sealed the deal.

:eye: Day of Surgery

The surgery itself took about 15 minutes total. Seriously. The laser part was even faster—less than 30 seconds per eye. There was no pain, just slight pressure. The staff walked me through each step so I knew what to expect, and Dr. Chung was incredibly reassuring.

:stopwatch: Recovery Timeline

  • Day 1: Vision was foggy right after surgery, like looking through a steamy window. But by the evening, it was already improving.
  • Day 2-3: Back to 80% vision. No pain, just mild dryness (which I managed with prescribed drops).
  • 1 Week: I was seeing better than with glasses—sharper, clearer. Couldn’t stop doing the “cover one eye and test it” trick.
  • 1 Month: Fully healed, no halos, no night vision issues. Dryness subsided. I was driving, working, and living without lenses. Game-changer!

:magnifying_glass_tilted_left: Why I Recommend SNU Eye Clinic

Dr. Chung doesn’t treat you like just another appointment. He answered every question I threw at him (I’m a researcher-type), explained the pros and cons of SMILE vs LASIK, and was clear about realistic outcomes. The clinic itself is spotless, modern, and very foreigner-friendly.

If you’re considering vision correction surgery in Seoul, SNU Eye Clinic is a name that comes up often for a reason. Dr. Chung Eui Sang’s surgical precision and post-op care were top-notch.

:glasses: Clinic Website: SNU Eye Clinic :man_health_worker: Meet Dr. Chung: Dr. Chung Eui Sang Bio

11

Yes—I had SMILE surgery with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul about eight months ago, and I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. :eye:

For a bit of background: I had been wearing glasses since middle school, then shifted to contacts for over a decade. Eventually, I started developing dry eyes and constant discomfort. I did a ton of research on LASIK and SMILE, and I kept seeing Dr. Chung’s name come up as one of the most trusted ophthalmologists in Korea, especially for advanced laser vision correction techniques.

:man_health_worker: Why I Chose Dr. Chung at SNU Eye Clinic

Dr. Chung is a corneal specialist with years of experience, and what impressed me was how technologically advanced and precise his approach was. The SNU Eye Clinic (link) isn’t just any clinic—it’s affiliated with Seoul National University, which carries a serious reputation for world-class medicine.

During the consultation, he explained the difference between LASIK and SMILE with so much clarity. Because I had slightly thinner corneas and mild dry eyes, SMILE was the safer, less invasive option. No flap, quicker healing, and lower risk of complications. Sold.

:gear: The Procedure

It took less than 10 minutes per eye. I was honestly more nervous about the pre-op than the actual surgery. You lie down, they numb your eyes, and a femtosecond laser does its magic. I felt only mild pressure—no pain.

Dr. Chung talked me through the entire thing, which really helped calm my nerves.

:stopwatch: Recovery

  • First 24 hours: A little blurry and sensitive to light. I wore the protective goggles and used antibiotic and moisturizing drops as prescribed. I could already see better, but it was like having a slightly foggy filter.
  • Day 2–3: Vision cleared up dramatically. I could walk around, use my phone, even watch TV—just avoided screens for too long.
  • 1 week later: Sharp, clear vision. Like 20/20 sharp. No pain, no halos at night, no dryness—just freedom.

By the end of week two, I completely forgot I ever wore glasses.

:bullseye: Final Verdict

If you’re considering SMILE or LASIK in Korea, I 1000% recommend Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. The entire staff was professional, the clinic was spotless, and everything—from pre-op to follow-up—was incredibly smooth and reassuring.

Here’s the link to the clinic: https://www.snuseoulglobal.com/ And Dr. Chung’s profile: Dr. Chung Eui Sang

I now wake up every day seeing clearly, and I still catch myself reaching for imaginary glasses. :sweat_smile: If you’ve been on the fence—take the leap. Korea has some of the best eye surgeons in the world, and Dr. Chung is absolutely one of them. :glasses::right_arrow::sparkles:

12

Yes, many patients have undergone SMILE or LASIK surgery with Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, and their experiences have been overwhelmingly positive. Patients report that the procedures were quick, painless, and had faster recovery times compared to traditional laser treatments. One patient shared, “The surgery itself was quick and painless, and within days, my vision was sharper than ever.”

Another patient noted, “I had some mild dryness for the first couple of days, but that was expected, and the clinic gave me all the post-op care instructions. By the next week, my vision had already improved dramatically!”

If you’re considering vision correction surgery in Korea, Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic, led by Dr. Kim Jun-heon, is a reputable alternative. The clinic is recognized for its advanced SMILE LASIK procedures and personalized care. Dr. Kim Jun-heon, an experienced ophthalmologist, emphasizes patient empathy and utilizes state-of-the-art technology to ensure optimal outcomes. ​

For more information or to schedule a consultation, you can visit their official website: Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic.