Written by ID Eye Clinic
2025.02.20
People with poor vision typically wear glasses or contact lenses, which often cause various inconveniences in daily life. Glasses must be worn at all times when going out, and during intense physical activities, they can be cumbersome and even cause discomfort behind the ears. Contact lenses also present challenges, especially when bathing or showering, making them difficult to manage. As a result, interest in vision correction surgery has been increasing, with LASIK and LASEK being the most well-known procedures. These surgeries were first introduced in South Korea in the 1990s and have continued to evolve, significantly improving the quality of life for many people. In the past, there were many concerns about side effects, but today, various tests are conducted to thoroughly analyze each individual's eye characteristics, and surgical equipment has also significantly advanced. Therefore, if you are considering LASIK or LASEK surgery, it is essential to evaluate which equipment the hospital uses, whether the medical team has extensive experience, and how thorough the post-operative care is before choosing where to undergo the procedure. Since the eyes are highly sensitive, choosing an unsuitable surgical method may lead to discomfort or complications, making careful selection crucial. Additionally, individual lifestyle factors, including occupational demands, should be taken into account when deciding on the most appropriate vision correction method.
1. LASIK Surgery LASIK involves creating a corneal flap by making an incision, then lifting the flap to reshape the underlying corneal tissue using a laser for vision correction. After the procedure, the flap is repositioned, allowing for a short recovery time and minimal pain. Since rapid recovery is a key advantage, LASIK is often preferred by those who have limited time for post-surgical rest. However, caution is required, as the corneal flap may shift if the eye experiences external impact. Additionally, LASIK may not be suitable for individuals with thin corneas, high myopia, or extreme myopia. 2. LASEK Surgery LASEK involves removing the corneal epithelium before reshaping the cornea to correct vision. Unlike LASIK, LASEK does not create a corneal flap, leading to a longer recovery period and more post-operative discomfort. However, since the epithelial layer naturally regenerates, the eye becomes more resistant to external impact. Additionally, LASEK can be an option for individuals with thin corneas, making it a viable alternative for those who engage in high-impact sports or physical activities.
Recently, All-Laser LASEK and 2day LASEK have been developed by combining the advantages of both LASIK and LASEK. These procedures use a laser to remove the corneal epithelium, unlike traditional LASEK, which involved the use of alcohol or a brush, potentially causing damage to surrounding eye tissues. With precise laser technology, these new methods allow for more refined and controlled corneal removal. As a result, unnecessary tissue damage is minimized, reducing the risk of glare, dry eye syndrome, and other complications. Additionally, the recovery period is shortened to about 2–3 days, making it a viable option for individuals with thin corneas. Because of these benefits, patients with extreme myopia or busy professionals may consider this procedure, depending on the results of their eye examination.
However, the choice of which surgical method to proceed with should only be made after accurately assessing the individual's eye condition. To achieve high satisfaction with the results, it is important not to apply a one-size-fits-all approach but rather to undergo a thorough examination and choose a clinic with advanced equipment and skilled medical professionals. If a laser-only procedure is performed, the amount of corneal epithelial removal can be reduced, leading to less pain and greater resistance to external impact. Therefore, it is essential to check whether the clinic has the necessary equipment and expertise to perform such procedures. Once vision deteriorates, it does not improve on its own and often worsens over time, leading to daily inconveniences and even affecting overall quality of life. Since glasses and contact lenses do not completely eliminate discomfort, considering LASEK surgery or other vision correction procedures can be a more convenient solution. To make the best decision, it is important to choose a clinic that objectively recommends the most suitable method for your eyes.
TOP 5 Eye Clinics in Korea