What is SMILE LASIK?

SMILE LASIK (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) is an advanced vision correction procedure in which a laser creates a precise lenticule (corneal tissue) within the cornea. This tissue is then removed through a micro-incision of approximately 2 mm to restore vision.

Unlike traditional LASIK or LASEK, this procedure does not require the creation of a corneal flap. Currently, there are two types: SMILE and SMILE PRO. Developed in Germany, the procedure is performed using the VisuMax laser system and has been fully approved by the FDA after proven safety and effectiveness.

BGSS Eye Clinic & the History of SMILE LASIK

As a pioneer of SMILE LASIK in Korea, BGSS Eye Clinic, led by founder Dr. Jong-Ho Lee, has over 29 years of clinical experience and continues to lead the advancement of SMILE LASIK in Korea.

Key Milestones

2008
Introduction and advancement of the VisuMax laser in Korea

2010
Adoption of flapless refractive surgery techniques

2012
Development of proprietary surgical instruments to improve SMILE procedure speed and safety
Accumulation of stable surgical outcomes using advanced techniques

2014
Recognized as a leading authority in SMILE LASIK in Korea
Presentation of SMILE clinical results at the Asia-Pacific Academy
Published surgical outcomes and expertise, including reduced incision size (2 mm) and laser scanning area (7 mm)
Certified SMILE surgeons and academic contributions

2015
SMILE clinical results published in CRST Europe (European refractive surgery journal)

2016
Presented innovative SMILE surgical approaches at the Asia-Pacific Refractive Laser Symposium in Bangkok

2017
Presented SMILE clinical outcomes at the Korean Ophthalmological Society

2018
Presented at ZEISS Asia-Pacific Refractive & Cataract Symposium
Introduced dual-system SMILE techniques addressing suction loss and surgical precision

2023
Introduction of VisuMax 800 laser and next-generation SMILE procedures
Advancement of surgical techniques based on extensive clinical experience
Collaboration with ZEISS for research and development
Standardized SMILE training programs for consistent surgical outcomes

2024
Expansion of advanced SMILE equipment lineup and certified SMILE surgeons
Presentation at Korea SMILE Forum: “Past, Present, and Future of SMILE”
Clinical results of SMILE PRO for astigmatism correction

2025
Over 160,000 SMILE LASIK cases performed
Presentation of global SMILE vision and leadership by Dr. Jong-Ho Lee (Chair of Korea SMILE Forum)
Key research on SMILE PRO demonstrating improved accuracy, recovery, and safety
Presentation at ZEISS APAC Horizon 2025 on safety and patient satisfaction of SMILE PRO

SMILE LASIK Surgery in Seoul, Korea: A Guide to Clear Vision

SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) LASIK surgery is a next-generation vision correction procedure widely performed in Seoul, Korea. As a minimally invasive alternative to traditional LASIK, SMILE LASIK offers faster recovery, improved corneal stability, and a lower risk of dry eyes—making Seoul a leading global destination for this procedure.

Why Choose SMILE LASIK in Seoul?

• Minimally Invasive – Uses a tiny incision, preserving corneal nerves and reducing dry eye risk
• Fast Recovery – Most patients resume daily activities within 24 hours
• Advanced Technology – Clinics utilize the Zeiss VisuMax femtosecond laser system
• Experienced Surgeons – High-volume ophthalmologists specializing in SMILE and SMILE Pro
• Affordable Cost – World-class care at competitive pricing compared to Western countries

SMILE LASIK Procedure Overview

1. Pre-Surgery Examination
   Comprehensive testing including corneal thickness, biomechanics, pupil size, and ocular health
2. Laser Incision
   A femtosecond laser creates a lenticule inside the cornea
3. Lenticule Removal
   The lenticule is removed through a micro-incision (no flap creation)
4. Vision Correction
   The cornea reshapes naturally, improving vision almost immediately
5. Recovery & Follow-Up
   Vision typically stabilizes within 24–48 hours with scheduled follow-ups

Cost of SMILE LASIK in Seoul

ProcedureEstimated Cost (KRW)Estimated Cost (USD)SMILE LASIK Surgery2,000,000 – 3,000,000$1,500 – $2,300

Prices vary depending on pre-operative testing, surgeon experience, and technology used.

Best Clinics for SMILE LASIK in Seoul

BGSS Eye Clinic Seoul

• High-volume SMILE & SMILE Pro procedures
• Advanced corneal biomechanics and ectasia risk screening
• Customized laser parameters based on individual eye anatomy
• Strong long-term follow-up and complication management protocols

BGSS Eye Clinic Busan

• Dedicated SMILE-focused ophthalmology center
• Extensive experience with high myopia and astigmatism cases
• Structured pre- and post-operative care system
• Consistent outcomes backed by large surgical data sets

SMILE LASIK surgery in Seoul, Korea, is a safe, effective, and globally trusted vision correction option. With cutting-edge technology, experienced surgeons, and transparent pricing, Seoul continues to stand out as a premier destination for SMILE LASIK—especially at clinics such as BGSS Seoul and BGSS Busan.