One of the best things about getting eye surgery in Korea is that Seoul is an incredible city to explore. With LASIK and SMILE Pro, you can have surgery and be sightseeing within 48 hours. Here is how to plan the perfect vision correction vacation.
Suggested 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Consultation
Arrive in Seoul, settle into your hotel in Gangnam or Myeongdong. Afternoon: comprehensive eye exam at your clinic (takes about 2 hours including 15+ diagnostic tests). Evening: explore your neighborhood, enjoy Korean BBQ.
Day 2: Surgery Day
Morning: arrive at clinic, procedure takes 10-15 minutes. You will rest at the clinic for 1-2 hours. Afternoon: return to hotel, rest with eyes closed for 4-6 hours. Your eyes may water and feel sensitive. Take it easy. Evening: room service or delivery food.
Day 3: First Follow-Up + Light Exploration
Morning: follow-up exam at clinic. Most patients already see dramatically better. Afternoon: gentle walks in indoor spaces like COEX Mall, Starfield Library, or Lotte World Mall. Wear sunglasses outdoors.
Day 4-5: Seoul Sightseeing
Your vision is improving daily. Explore Gyeongbokgung Palace, Bukchon Hanok Village, Insadong traditional culture street. Visit Myeongdong for shopping. Try Korean skin treatments like trending skin treatments that do not affect your eyes.
Day 6: Gangnam Day
Explore Gangnam: Garosu-gil designer shopping street, Bongeunsa Temple, trendy cafes. Optional: add a skin treatment or teeth whitening to your trip.
Day 7: Final Check + Departure
Morning: final follow-up at clinic, confirmation that healing is on track. Afternoon: last-minute shopping at duty free. Fly home with new vision.
What to Pack
- Prescription sunglasses (you will need UV protection for 1 month)
- Preservative-free artificial tears (clinic provides some, but bring extra)
- Sleep mask or eye shields for sleeping
- Audiobooks or podcasts (for Day 2 when you should rest your eyes)
- Comfortable clothing (no overhead pullover shirts for surgery day)
Budget Planning
- LASIK/LASEK: $900 - $2,000
- SMILE Pro: ~$3,400
- Hotel (7 nights): $500 - $1,500 (Gangnam area)
- Food: $200 - $400
- Transportation: $50 - $100 (subway T-money card)
- Total budget: $1,650 - $5,400 (still cheaper than LASIK alone in the USA)
Flight Tips Post-Surgery
Flying after LASIK is generally safe after 24-48 hours, though 5-7 days is ideal. The cabin air is dry, so use artificial tears frequently during the flight. Wear sunglasses even inside the airport.
Related Articles
- LASIK in Korea: Cost and Safety Guide
- SMILE Pro vs LASIK vs LASEK
- First Medical Trip to Korea: Checklist
- One Week Seoul Skin Treatment Itinerary
Ready to see the world clearly and explore Seoul? Contact MyDoc Korea to plan your vision correction vacation. We handle clinic booking, accommodation recommendations, and itinerary tips for the perfect medical tourism trip.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Individual results may vary.
