LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) is a refractive surgery that uses laser technology to reshape the cornea, correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
LASIK is the world's most commonly performed elective eye surgery, with decades of safety data supporting its efficacy. The procedure uses an excimer laser to precisely reshape the cornea — the clear front surface of the eye — correcting the refractive error that causes blurred vision. The surgery typically takes 10–15 minutes per eye and is performed under topical anesthetic eye drops, with most patients achieving 20/20 vision or better.
The LASIK procedure involves two main steps. First, a thin flap is created on the cornea using a femtosecond laser (blade-free LASIK) or a microkeratome. The flap is folded back, and the excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue with submicron precision. The flap is then repositioned and heals naturally without sutures. Modern bladeless LASIK technology, widely available in Korea, offers enhanced precision and faster recovery.
In Korea, LASIK is available at licensed ophthalmology centres under the supervision of KMA-registered ophthalmologists, and Seoul has one of the highest concentrations of refractive surgery centres in the world. Candidates must meet specific criteria: stable prescription for at least one year, sufficient corneal thickness, no active eye disease, and be 18 or older (ideally 21+). A comprehensive pre-operative assessment takes 2–3 hours and includes corneal mapping (topography), pupil measurement, and tear film evaluation.
Key Points
- Corrects myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism
- Procedure takes 10–15 minutes per eye; vision improvement often immediate
- Bladeless LASIK (femtosecond laser) offers higher precision and safety
- Requires stable prescription for at least 1 year before surgery
- Pre-operative assessment takes 2–3 hours — do not wear contact lenses 1 week before
- Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better after the procedure
Causes & Risk Factors
- Myopia (nearsightedness) — light focuses in front of the retina
- Hyperopia (farsightedness) — light focuses behind the retina
- Astigmatism — irregular corneal shape causing blurred or distorted vision
- Desire to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses
- Occupational or lifestyle requirements (sports, military, aviation) making glasses/contacts impractical
When to See a Doctor
- If your glasses or contact lens prescription has been stable for at least 12 months
- If you are 18 or older (most surgeons prefer patients to be 21+)
- For a pre-LASIK consultation to assess suitability — not everyone is a candidate
- If you experience dry eye symptoms — LASIK can worsen pre-existing dry eye
- If you have a family history of keratoconus — a contraindication for LASIK
- Before stopping contact lens wear — required 1–2 weeks before assessment for soft lenses
For emergencies in Korea, call 119
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This content is published for educational purposes only. For accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment, consult a licensed KMA physician in Korea.
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This article is published by DoctorsInKorea.com for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace a professional clinical evaluation by a licensed healthcare provider. For accurate medical diagnosis and personalised treatment paths, please book an appointment with a licensed KMA physician. For immediate life-threatening medical emergencies in Korea, please call 119.
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Last reviewed: May 29, 2026