Is it really worth going to South Korea for LASIK surgery? I can say, absolutely worth it.
Un_
a month ago
I hesitated for a long time when choosing a clinic; the three reasons I finally decided on Mingmu Ophthalmology are: modern equipment, a good reputation, and high safety.
“No-accident”record makes people feel very reassured.
I chose the SMILE femtosecond procedure; the entire operation took less than 2 minutes, but the preoperative examinations took quite a while, which I actually found reassuring.
Some details I remember:
1. Process: online reservation → arrive at the clinic and check in → a series of examinations (refraction, corneal thickness, dry eye assessment, etc.) → laser surgery → follow-up visit about the next day or within two days
2. The doctor clearly explained whether the procedure could be done, the risks, and side effects, and there were many non-Asian people present, showing that this eye clinic is highly trustworthy and well-known
The surgery went by really fast. I have dry eye and was worried about keeping my eye open and staring at the laser’s green light, but before entering the laser machine the doctor floods the eye with artificial tears so you can accurately and comfortably focus on the green light until the laser is finished. The timed part is about 2 minutes, but the doctor’s actions are so quick it doesn’t feel like 2 minutes.
4. The translation was very professional; the procedures and use of technical terms were clearly explained. They truly accompanied me throughout the entire process—following me from hospital admission through tests and into the laser room—and after it was over they taught me how to apply medication and care for my eyes, which made me feel very reassured and moved.
5. Because my arrangements were rather hurried and I couldn't wait until the day after tomorrow for a follow-up, I scheduled a visit for the next day; when my vision was checked it was already 1.0, and the translator told me it would continue to improve. As I write this postscript I am one week post-operation, and a subsequent eye exam in Taiwan showed my vision is already 1.2.
Check this document for the following contents:
Because I have been wearing contact lenses since around age 12, my dry eyes and corneal condition haven't been very good. Now I can't even wear clear silicone hydrogel contact lenses, so I made up my mind and scheduled laser surgery.
They examined my pupil size and eye pressure very thoroughly, so I didn't have any uneasy worries while looking at the green laser light.
My corneal thickness had become so thin from poor eye habits that it was almost too thin for surgery. I can't imagine if I hadn't come to Mingmu Eye Clinic, a clinic with such experienced and professional staff, whether there would have been any complications.
Postoperative sensations timeline:
1 hour after surgery: like opening my eyes in a swimming pool — stinging, a bit painful, blurry, can barely see my phone, just want to keep my eyes closed.
3 hours after surgery: Most things are visible, but still a bit blurry and light-sensitive.
5 hours after surgery: not very painful, only dryness remains.
The next morning after taking the medicine and returning for a follow-up, my vision had already recovered to 1.0. Different doctors rechecked the recovery, which made me feel very reassured.
Recommended preparations:
1. Have an initial round of examinations in Taiwan (corneal thickness, stable prescription, severity of dry eye). This prevents being determined unsuitable only after flying to the facility.
2. Don’t pack your schedule too tightly: on the day of the procedure you’ll want to go back to your lodging and rest immediately; leave time for follow-up appointments, too.
The day after my follow-up appointment I was already able to walk around in the bright sun, though my surroundings became very romantic and a bit hazy, as if a filter had been applied.
3. Prepare in advance according to the rigid and soft contact lens restriction rules
Outfit and items to bring for the day:
1. Bring dark sunglasses/goggles (the moment I left the clinic I thought these were so worth it... the sun was bright enough to kill me)
2. You can bring some toilet paper; using eye drops may cause continuous tearing or a runny nose
3. Jacket or hat (sensitive to light + resting in an air-conditioned room will be much more comfortable)
If you're still hesitating, I'd say: you can do it, but do your homework, follow the doctor's orders, and arrange plenty of rest.
Doing these three things, the process was actually very smooth. If I really have to say something I regret, it’s not having started earlier. Haha!
