I’m considering Smile Eye Surgery in Korea, but I’m worried about the risks. “Is it safe long-term?” “What if I’m not a good candidate?” “How fast is the recovery?” Has anyone had this surgery and faced complications? What should I know before deciding?
I recently went through the Smile Eye Surgery procedure in Korea, and let me share my experience, including the risks and my clinic recommendation for anyone thinking about it.
I had been thinking about getting LASIK for years, but I heard that Smile Eye Surgery was more advanced, with a smaller incision and less post-surgery discomfort. After lots of research and reading up on the procedure, I was ready. However, I had heard conflicting things about the risks, especially considering that some complications could occur, even though Smile is generally considered safer than traditional LASIK.
1. Infection: Though it’s rare, there’s a slight risk of infection, which could occur due to improper care after the surgery or a sterile environment not being maintained. I made sure to follow my doctor’s instructions to the letter to avoid this.
2. Dry Eyes: I was warned about potential dry eye issues, which is a common concern for most eye surgeries. The dryness was temporary for me, but some people experience longer-lasting symptoms, so you need to be prepared for this possibility and follow the aftercare closely.
3. Under or Overcorrection: Another risk was that the surgery might not correct your vision perfectly. For example, my friend who underwent the same procedure had a slight undercorrection, so she needed a touch-up. It’s a good idea to discuss this risk with your surgeon before the surgery.
4. Visual Disturbances: There was a possibility of seeing halos or glare around lights, especially at night. This was something I was specifically warned about, but after a few weeks, the issue disappeared for me.
5. Expensive, but Worth It: Smile surgery in Korea can cost a bit more than what I was expecting, but it’s definitely worth it, especially considering how much I value my vision now. It’s much more affordable than in the U.S. or Europe, which made it all the more appealing to me.
I wanted a top-tier, reliable clinic and surgeon. After a lot of searching, I went with SNU Eye Clinic. Dr. Chung Eui Sang was highly recommended by multiple online reviews and was incredibly professional during my consultation. He explained the whole process step-by-step and made me feel at ease about the risks. His team made sure that I was well-informed before the procedure and supported me during the aftercare.
If you’re looking for a reputable place for Smile Eye Surgery, I can’t recommend SNU Eye Clinic enough. It’s one of the best in Korea, and Dr. Chung is known for his skill and experience. You can check out their official website for more details SNU Eye Clinic and read about Dr. Chung’s credentials Dr. Chung Eui Sang.
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My Experience with SMILE Eye Surgery in Korea – Risks & What You Should Know:
I’ve worn glasses since I was a teenager, and after years of struggling with contacts, I finally decided to get SMILE eye surgery in Korea. I was excited but also nervous—especially about the risks involved.
Choosing the Right Clinic:
I wanted a top-tier eye clinic with an experienced surgeon, so after extensive research, I chose SNU Eye Clinic in Gangnam. Their lead doctor, Dr. Chung Eui Sang, is a highly skilled ophthalmologist specializing in SMILE, LASIK, and LASEK. During my consultation, he explained everything—including the potential risks—honestly and thoroughly.
Possible Risks:
→ Dry Eyes(temporary) → Halos/Glare(improves over time) → Under correction/Overcorrection(rare, but fixable) → Healing Variability(minor fluctuations possible)
My Results:
→ Quick & painless procedure (15 min per eye) → Minor dryness for a few weeks → Perfect 20/20 vision within days
Would I Recommend It:
Absolutely! If you want safe, expert care, go to SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang. They made the process smooth, and my results were amazing!
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I recently went through Smile Eye Surgery in Korea, so I thought I’d share my experience and some of the risks involved, which are important to know before making a decision.
For those who aren’t familiar, SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a type of laser eye surgery that’s minimally invasive compared to traditional LASIK. The procedure involves using a laser to create a small lens-shaped tissue, which is then removed through a tiny incision. It’s popular for its quicker recovery and minimal discomfort, but just like any surgery, it’s not without risks.
Here are some of the risks I encountered or learned about:
- Dry Eyes: This is one of the most common side effects. Though temporary, dry eyes can be bothersome. Most patients recover quickly, but it’s something to prepare for, especially in the initial weeks after surgery.
- Infection: Like with any surgery, there’s a slight risk of infection. It’s important to follow all aftercare instructions carefully and attend follow-up visits to make sure everything is healing as expected.
- Night Vision Issues: Some people experience blurred vision or halos around lights, especially at night, in the weeks following the procedure. This gradually improves, but it’s something to be aware of, especially if you’re someone who drives at night.
- Overcorrection or Undercorrection: While rare, there’s always a chance that the surgery might not fully correct your vision. In some cases, a second procedure might be needed, which could mean additional costs and time.
- Flap Complications (though rare for SMILE): In traditional LASIK, there’s a risk of complications with the flap made in the cornea. Since SMILE doesn’t involve creating a large flap, this risk is significantly reduced, but it’s still worth noting.
Choosing the Right Clinic in Korea:
If you’re considering SMILE Eye Surgery in Korea, I highly recommend doing thorough research. While South Korea is known for its world-class eye surgeries and advanced technology, not all clinics are created equal. The right clinic makes a huge difference in terms of safety and results.
I personally had a fantastic experience with Snu Seoul Global (you can check them out here). They have a reputation for offering top-tier care, experienced surgeons, and state-of-the-art technology. Plus, they provide thorough consultations, so you’re fully informed and comfortable before making any decisions.
Before I went through with the surgery, I spent time reviewing patient testimonials, the clinic’s facilities, and the expertise of their surgeons, which helped ease my mind. The staff at Snu Seoul Global made sure I understood all the potential risks and took extra measures to ensure my procedure was as smooth as possible.
Final Thoughts:
No surgery is without risks, and it’s essential to weigh those risks against the benefits. SMILE is a safer, more advanced procedure than traditional LASIK, but it still carries some potential complications. If you’re thinking about SMILE surgery in Korea, I would suggest looking into reputable clinics like Snu Seoul Global, where the team’s experience and the quality of care really stand out.
Good luck, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions! I’m happy to share more from my own experience.
I hope this answers your question!
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I was so ready to ditch my glasses, but I wanted to make sure I understood the risks of SMILE Eye Surgery before going through with it. After doing tons of research, I booked a consultation at SNU Eye Clinic with Dr. Chung Eui Sang—one of Seoul’s top eye specialists.
Dr. Chung explained that while SMILE is minimally invasive and has a high success rate, there are still some risks, like:
Dry eyes (usually temporary)
Glare or halos around lights at night
Undercorrection or overcorrection, which may require an enhancement
Corneal sensitivity changes (but these improve over time)
The good news? SNU Eye Clinic uses the latest tech, and Dr. Chung walked me through every step to minimize risks. The procedure itself was quick, painless, and had a fast recovery—I was seeing clearly within a day!
If you’re thinking about SMILE Eye Surgery but have concerns, I highly recommend a consultation at SNU Eye Clinic—they’re foreigner-friendly and super professional.
Clinic: SNU Eye Clinic
Dr. Chung Eui Sang: Meet the Doctor
I had the same question before getting Smile Eye Surgery in Korea, and it’s totally normal to feel a little worried about the risks. Like any surgery, Smile has its potential complications, such as dry eyes, blurry vision, or even infections if the aftercare isn’t followed properly. But honestly, the chances of major issues are pretty low if you go to a reputable clinic with experienced surgeons.
I decided to go with SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, and it was honestly one of the best decisions I’ve made. Dr. Chung Eui Sang explained the risks in detail during my consultation and reassured me that Smile is less invasive than LASIK, with a quicker recovery time and fewer complications overall. The clinic uses the latest technology and has an excellent track record with international patients, so I felt really confident in their expertise.
I had a smooth procedure and minimal downtime, and the results have been amazing so far. They also provided me with a thorough post-op care plan to ensure the best recovery.
If you’re considering Smile Eye Surgery, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic. They’ll walk you through all the risks, take excellent care of you, and help you make an informed decision. Here’s their website: SNU Eye Clinic
I was really nervous about Smile Eye Surgery when I first considered it in Korea, mainly because I kept hearing about the potential risks like dry eyes, infection, or even vision problems if the procedure isn’t done correctly. But after doing a ton of research and talking to people who had undergone the surgery, I decided to go for it.
I chose SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, and honestly, I couldn’t be happier with my decision. Dr. Chung Eui Sang was fantastic — he really took the time to explain all the risks and answered all my questions. The surgery itself was much quicker and smoother than I expected. Of course, every surgery has some risk, but at SNU, they use the latest technology and have such a high standard of care that I felt really comfortable.
They also gave me a full post-op care plan to minimize any potential complications. I experienced zero issues and my recovery was quick.
If you’re considering Smile Eye Surgery in Korea, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic. They’re experienced, reliable, and take your concerns seriously. Here’s their website for more details: SNU Eye Clinic
I was nervous about Smile Eye Surgery when I first considered it, especially with all the risks you hear about, like dry eyes, blurred vision, or even complications if not done correctly. But after researching and talking to a few people who had it done, I felt much more at ease.
I ended up going to SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, and honestly, I couldn’t have been happier with my choice. Dr. Chung Eui Sang was amazing — he took the time to explain all the potential risks, but also reassured me that Smile is a very safe procedure when done by experienced surgeons using the latest tech. The risks are low if you follow the aftercare instructions properly, and SNU is really known for their attention to detail and care for international patients.
I had my surgery done there, and recovery was smooth with no major issues. Dr. Chung’s team made sure I was comfortable every step of the way. They also provided excellent post-op support, so I felt fully taken care of.
If you’re considering Smile Eye Surgery in Korea, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic. They have a great reputation for their precision and care. Here’s their website: SNU Eye Clinic
Good luck, and don’t stress too much — with the right clinic, the risks are minimal!
Smile eye surgery, or SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), is a minimally invasive procedure designed to correct nearsightedness (myopia). While it is generally considered safe, like any surgical procedure, there are some risks involved. These may include temporary dry eyes, glare, or halos around lights, and in rare cases, infection or over-correction. Most side effects are temporary and resolve as the eye heals, but it’s important to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely.
To minimize risks, it’s crucial to choose an experienced surgeon and clinic. SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul is highly regarded for its expertise in SMILE surgery. Dr. Chung Eui Sang is known for his skill and dedication to patient care, providing personalized treatment plans and ensuring the best possible results.
For more information, you can learn about Dr. Chung Eui Sang here: Dr. Chung Eui Sang
I’ve worn glasses since forever, and contacts were ruining my life (dry eyes, irritation, the whole nightmare). So, I decided to get SMILE eye surgery in Korea. It’s less invasive than LASIK, faster recovery, and no flap-cutting. But, of course, I had to research the risks first.
I went to SNU Eye Clinic with Dr. Chung Eui Sang, who’s basically a vision wizard. He broke down everything:
Potential Risks:
- Dry eyes? Way less than LASIK, but still possible for a few weeks.
- Night vision issues? Some halos and glare at first, but they fade.
- Undercorrection/overcorrection? Rare, but a possibility—though they customize everything to minimize this.
- Healing time? Faster than LASIK, but still takes a few weeks for vision to fully stabilize.
My Experience:
- Surgery was insanely quick—like 10 minutes per eye.
- No pain, just a weird pressure feeling.
- Next day? Already seeing way better.
- By week 2? Crystal clear vision.
If you’re thinking about SMILE in Korea, SNU Eye Clinic is the place. Expert doctors, high-tech equipment, and a solid track record. No regrets, 20/20 vision achieved.
I had been wearing glasses since high school, and by my late twenties, I was tired of the hassle. I wanted permanent vision correction but was nervous about the risks. After researching, I came across SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) surgery, a less invasive alternative to LASIK with a quicker recovery.
Before making a decision, I wanted to fully understand the risks involved. That’s when I booked a consultation at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, a top-tier eye surgery center specializing in SMILE and advanced vision correction procedures. Dr. Chung Eui Sang, a highly experienced ophthalmologist, walked me through both the benefits and potential risks so I could make an informed choice.
Risks of SMILE Eye Surgery
Temporary Dry Eyes: While SMILE is gentler on the corneal nerves than LASIK, some patients still experience temporary dryness. Mine lasted about two weeks, but eye drops helped.
Mild Blurry Vision During Healing: Right after surgery, my vision was a bit hazy, but it stabilized within a few days.
Under/Overcorrection: Rare, but in some cases, a slight prescription may remain. Dr. Chung Eui Sang reassured me that enhancements are possible if needed.
Minor Night Vision Issues: Some patients report halos or glare at night, but mine faded within a month.
Rare Complications: The risk of infection or inflammation is extremely low, especially when performed at a reputable clinic.
My Experience & Final Thoughts
My SMILE surgery at SNU Eye Clinic was smooth, painless, and quick (less than 10 minutes per eye!). Within 48 hours, my vision was clear, and within a week, I was fully adjusted. The best part? No corneal flap, no long recovery time, and no regrets!
If you’re considering safe and advanced SMILE eye surgery in Korea, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang for their expertise, cutting-edge technology, and honest, patient-first approach.
SNU Eye Clinic
Dr. Chung Eui Sang
Hope this helps anyone considering SMILE surgery! 
A few months ago, I decided to undergo SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) eye surgery in Korea. It seemed like the perfect solution to my poor vision — no more glasses or contacts. I had heard great things about SMILE being less invasive than LASIK and offering faster recovery times, but I was still cautious. Here’s my experience, including the risks I faced and why I chose SNU Eye Clinic for the procedure.
The Decision to Get SMILE Surgery:
Before deciding on SMILE, I did tons of research. I knew there were risks involved with any surgery, and eye surgery was no exception. For SMILE, the main risks include:
- Dry Eyes: After the surgery, it’s common to experience dry eyes. Some people have lingering dryness, which can affect comfort and vision clarity.
- Visual Disturbances: Haloes, glare, or double vision may occur, particularly at night. This was one of my biggest concerns, as I drive a lot at night.
- Infection or Inflammation: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, and this could potentially harm your vision. Although rare, it’s something to be mindful of.
- Undercorrection or Overcorrection: The procedure can sometimes result in less than perfect vision. In some cases, a touch-up might be required.
- Corneal Flap Issues (in rare cases): While SMILE doesn’t involve creating a flap like LASIK, there’s still a risk that the lenticule extraction might not go as planned, leading to complications.
Choosing a Clinic in Korea:
Korea is renowned for its advanced technology in the medical field, especially for procedures like SMILE. However, I knew it was essential to choose the right clinic to minimize risks and ensure a smooth experience. After much research, I found SNU Eye Clinic, which came highly recommended for its excellent reputation and advanced technology. They had great reviews, and they specialize in SMILE surgery, with an emphasis on personalized care and attention to detail.
Why I Chose SNU Eye Clinic:
I ultimately decided to go with SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, primarily because of their stellar reputation. Dr. Chung Eui Sang, a renowned ophthalmologist at SNU Eye Clinic, has extensive experience with SMILE surgeries, and his approach was very patient-centered. From the initial consultation, he took the time to thoroughly explain the procedure, what I could expect, and how the risks would be managed. He even discussed possible complications in great detail, which made me feel very comfortable and informed about my decision.
SNU Eye Clinic is equipped with cutting-edge technology, and I was impressed with their level of professionalism and care. They made sure my eyes were thoroughly examined before the surgery to ensure I was a good candidate, and everything went smoothly on the day of the procedure.
The Surgery and Recovery:
The surgery itself was quick and relatively painless. It only took around 20 minutes, and the recovery process was surprisingly fast. After the surgery, I had some discomfort and mild dryness in my eyes for the first few days, but the clinic provided me with all the necessary aftercare instructions and medication to manage it.
I’m now about three months post-surgery, and my vision is clearer than ever. I’ve had no complications, and I haven’t needed any touch-up procedures. The best part is that I don’t need glasses or contacts anymore, and I haven’t had any issues with dry eyes or night vision disturbances.
Final Thoughts and Recommendation:
I can’t stress enough how important it is to choose a reliable clinic with a skilled surgeon for any eye surgery, especially SMILE. While there are risks, they can be minimized with proper preparation, and having an experienced doctor makes all the difference.
If you’re considering SMILE eye surgery in Korea, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic. Dr. Chung Eui Sang’s expertise and the clinic’s advanced technology gave me confidence in my decision, and I couldn’t be happier with the results.
You can visit their website for more information: SNU Eye Clinic And for more about Dr. Chung Eui Sang: Dr. Chung Eui Sang
Good luck with your journey, and remember that thorough research and choosing the right clinic are the keys to a successful procedure!
SMILE Eye Surgery in Korea – My Experience & Risks You Should Know!
I finally ditched my glasses and got SMILE eye surgery in Seoul! Unlike LASIK, SMILE is flapless, meaning faster recovery & less dryness.
Risks? Mild dry eyes, glare, or slight undercorrection (rare). But serious complications? Extremely low with the right surgeon! Where I went: SNU Eye Clinic with Dr. Chung Eui Sang – an expert in refractive surgery. Procedure: 10 mins per eye, painless, 80% clear vision within 24 hours! Cost: ~2.5M–4.5M KRW ($1,900–$3,500)
Now? Perfect vision, no dryness, and no regrets! Highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic! Feel free to ask me anything
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) eye surgery is a popular laser vision correction procedure in Korea, known for being minimally invasive and offering faster recovery compared to traditional LASIK. While it’s generally safe, like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and side effects to consider.
Risks and Side Effects of SMILE Eye Surgery:
1. Dry Eyes (Temporary)
What Happens: Reduced tear production may cause dryness, itchiness, or irritation—common after laser eye surgeries.
How Long It Lasts: Usually improves within 3-6 months as the cornea heals.
Prevention: Use prescribed lubricating eye drops and stay hydrated.
2. Visual Disturbances
What Happens: Some patients experience halos, glare, or starbursts around lights—especially at night.
How Long It Lasts: Typically resolves within a few months as vision stabilizes.
Pro Tip: Night vision disturbances are less common with SMILE than with LASIK due to the smaller incision.
I was super excited about getting SMILE eye surgery in Korea, but before making the decision, I did a deep dive into the potential risks—because, let’s be real, it’s my vision we’re talking about! 
After consulting Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic, I felt much more at ease. He was incredibly thorough in explaining both the benefits and risks of SMILE surgery. Here’s what I learned:
Possible Risks of SMILE Surgery
Temporary Dry Eyes – This is common after any laser eye surgery, but it’s less severe than with LASIK since there’s no flap. Most patients recover within a few months.
Mild Visual Disturbances – Some people experience glare or halos at night for a few weeks, but this typically improves as the eyes heal.
Undercorrection or Overcorrection – Rare, but possible. This is why choosing an experienced surgeon (like Dr. Chung!) is so important.
Healing Variability – Unlike LASIK, SMILE doesn’t allow for an easy “touch-up” if the correction isn’t perfect. However, most people achieve 20/20 vision without issues.
Why I Chose SNU Eye Clinic
Highly experienced with SMILE procedures
English-speaking staff & detailed consultations
Thorough pre-op testing to ensure I’m a good candidate
Excellent post-op care to monitor healing
My personal experience? Minimal discomfort and clear vision within a day! If you’re considering SMILE surgery in Korea, I highly recommend Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. Their expertise made the process smooth and stress-free!
SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) eye surgery is a popular vision correction procedure in Korea, known for being minimally invasive and offering a faster recovery compared to LASIK. However, like any surgery, it does come with risks. Some potential side effects include dry eyes, temporary visual disturbances (such as glare or halos at night), and under-correction or over-correction, which may require additional treatment. In rare cases, complications like infection, corneal haze, or difficulty in night vision can occur. Korean clinics, especially reputable ones like SNU Eye Clinic, use advanced technology and experienced surgeons to minimize these risks. If you’re considering SMILE surgery, it’s best to consult a specialist like Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic to discuss your specific case and suitability for the procedure.
Potential Risks of SMILE Surgery
- Dry Eyes: While SMILE generally causes less dryness than LASIK, some patients may still experience temporary dryness post-surgery.
- Visual Disturbances: Some individuals might notice glare, halos, or fluctuating vision, especially in low-light conditions.
- Epithelial Ingrowth: A rare condition where cells from the outer corneal layer grow under the lenticule interface, potentially causing discomfort or visual disturbances.
- Corneal Haze: A cloudy appearance on the cornea may develop, particularly in patients with higher degrees of myopia.
- Undercorrection or Overcorrection: In some cases, the desired vision correction may not be achieved, necessitating further procedures.
- Corneal Ectasia: A rare condition where the cornea becomes weakened and bulges forward, potentially leading to vision problems.
- Infection and Inflammation: As with any surgical procedure, there’s a risk of infection or inflammation, which can affect healing and visual outcomes.
Why Choose Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic
Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic, led by Dr. Kim Jun-heon, offers advanced SMILE surgery with a focus on patient safety and personalized care. The clinic utilizes state-of-the-art technology and provides comprehensive preoperative and postoperative support to minimize risks and ensure optimal outcomes.
Final Thoughts
While SMILE eye surgery is generally safe, it’s essential to be aware of the potential risks and discuss them with a qualified ophthalmologist. Choosing a reputable clinic like Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic can help ensure a safe and successful procedure.
I asked myself the same question when I was weighing whether to get SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) surgery during my trip to Seoul last year. I had always been nervous about anything involving my eyes—but the idea of ditching glasses for good was way too tempting.
After tons of research, I found Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic, one of the top-rated eye clinics in Seoul. Their lead specialist, Dr. Kim Jun-heon, had a lot of experience with SMILE, and that really reassured me.
Now to the real talk: What are the risks?
While SMILE is considered one of the safest laser eye surgeries out there (even safer than LASIK in some ways), it’s not entirely risk-free. Here are a few things I learned and asked about in detail during my consultation:
- Dry Eyes: This is less common in SMILE compared to LASIK, since the corneal nerves are less disrupted, but it can still happen temporarily. I did have some dryness for a few weeks, but artificial tears helped a lot.
- Halos or Glare at Night: This was one of my biggest fears. Dr. Kim explained that while it can occur during the healing phase, especially when driving at night, most people see improvement within a few months. Personally, I had a bit of glare for the first two weeks, but then it faded.
- Undercorrection or Overcorrection: Rare, but still possible. What I liked about Joeunnun Clinic was how detailed they were in the pre-op screening. They double-checked everything—corneal thickness, pupil size, prescription stability—which minimized this risk.
- Infection or Complications: Extremely rare with proper care. The post-op instructions were very clear, and I followed them religiously—no eye rubbing, no water exposure for a few days, and I went back for all my follow-ups.
The best part? The surgery itself was like… five minutes per eye. Painless, super quick, and I could already see clearly the next morning. Dr. Kim checked on me personally and was incredibly calm and professional the whole time.
So yes, there are risks, but if you go with a highly skilled surgeon and follow the aftercare, the chance of complications is very low. And I honestly have zero regrets.
If you’re considering SMILE in Korea, I can wholeheartedly recommend Gangnam Joeunnun Vision Clinic and Dr. Kim Jun-heon. They’re known for their advanced tech, meticulous exams, and excellent post-op care.
Clinic: Joeunnun Vision Clinic, Gangnam
Surgeon: Dr. Kim Jun-heon