ICL vs SMILE Surgery in Korea

Korea is one of the world’s top destinations for advanced eye surgery, offering procedures like ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) and SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction). Both are popular for permanent vision correction — but they work in very different ways. Here’s how they compare and how to decide which option is best for you.

What Is ICL Surgery

ICL surgery involves implanting a tiny, flexible lens inside the eye, between the iris and the natural lens. The procedure corrects nearsightedness without removing or reshaping any corneal tissue.

Key Features

• Ideal for people with high myopia or thin corneas
• Reversible and removable if needed
• Provides clear, sharp vision even at extreme prescriptions
• Quick recovery, usually within 24–48 hours
• Low risk of dry eyes since the cornea isn’t cut

ICL is often recommended when the cornea is too thin or irregular for laser procedures like LASIK or SMILE.

What Is SMILE Surgery

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is a minimally invasive laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea through a small incision — typically 2 to 4 millimeters wide. It uses a femtosecond laser to remove a tiny lens-shaped piece of tissue (called a lenticule) from within the cornea to correct vision.

Key Features

• Flap-free procedure with a small incision
• Preserves more corneal structure and stability
• Lower risk of post-surgery dry eyes
• Suitable for mild to moderate myopia and astigmatism
• Fast recovery, with most patients resuming normal activities in a few days

SMILE is perfect for those with an active lifestyle who want a laser-based solution with minimal disruption to the cornea.

ICL vs SMILE: Key Differences

Procedure Type
ICL is an implantable lens procedure (intraocular surgery), while SMILE is a corneal laser reshaping surgery.

Ideal Candidates
ICL suits patients with high myopia or thin corneas. SMILE is best for mild to moderate myopia and people with normal corneal thickness.

Recovery Time
ICL provides faster recovery — most patients see clearly within 1–2 days. SMILE recovery takes slightly longer, usually stabilizing within 3–7 days.

Reversibility
ICL is reversible — the lens can be removed or replaced in the future. SMILE permanently reshapes the cornea and cannot be undone.

Dry Eye Risk
ICL causes minimal dryness because the cornea remains intact. SMILE also has low dry-eye risk compared to LASIK, thanks to its small incision.

Cost in Korea

• ICL: Approximately ₩3.5 – ₩5 million per eye
• SMILE: Approximately ₩2.0 – ₩3.5 million per eye

(Prices vary by clinic, technology, and surgeon experience.)

Recovery and Aftercare

After ICL Surgery

• Vision often improves dramatically within 24 hours
• Avoid rubbing your eyes for at least a week
• Use prescribed eye drops and attend follow-up visits
• Wear sunglasses outdoors and avoid swimming for 2–3 weeks

After SMILE Surgery

• Slight blurriness or dryness for a few days is normal
• Avoid makeup, swimming, or eye strain for 1–2 weeks
• Use artificial tears and prescribed medications as directed
• Vision becomes stable within 1–2 weeks

Which Procedure Should You Choose?

Choose ICL if:

• You have high myopia or thin corneas
• You want a reversible procedure
• You experience chronic dry eyes
• You prefer fast recovery and stable vision

Choose SMILE if:

• You have mild to moderate myopia
• You want a minimally invasive, flap-free laser procedure
• You lead an active or athletic lifestyle
• You want a lower-cost option with reliable results

Vision Correction in Korea

Korean eye clinics, especially in Gangnam, Apgujeong, and Myeongdong, are globally recognized for precision diagnostics, advanced laser systems, and English-speaking medical teams. Patients benefit from transparent pricing, customized treatment plans, and comprehensive aftercare programs.

Final Thoughts

Both ICL and SMILE offer safe, long-term vision correction in Korea.

• ICL is ideal for those needing stronger correction or reversible treatment.
• SMILE is great for patients who want a quick, minimally invasive laser solution.

Before choosing, schedule a comprehensive eye examination with a board-certified ophthalmologist in Seoul. The right procedure depends on your corneal structure, vision level, and lifestyle goals.