5 Things We Check Before SMILE Eye Surgery in Seoul, Korea

Before recommending SMILE eye surgery, we evaluate five key factors: corneal shape, corneal thickness and strength, prescription stability, eye surface health, and pupil size/night vision.

At EYEREUM Eye Clinic in Gangnam, Seoul, a comprehensive pre-operative eye examination helps us determine whether SMILE laser vision correction is appropriate for each patient and plan treatment based on individual eye conditions.

1. Corneal Shape and Topography

We examine the shape and structure of the cornea using detailed corneal mapping.

Irregular corneal shape or findings that suggest laser vision correction may not be suitable can affect whether SMILE is recommended.

2. Corneal Thickness and Strength

The cornea needs to meet certain structural criteria for laser vision correction.

We evaluate corneal thickness as well as factors related to corneal strength and stability. If the cornea is too thin or shows signs of weakness, another vision correction option may be more appropriate.

3. Stable Vision Prescription

We check your current degree of myopia and astigmatism and review whether your prescription has remained stable.

If your prescription is still changing, we may recommend waiting before considering SMILE eye surgery.

4. Eye Surface Health and Dry Eye

Dry eye and other ocular surface conditions can affect both pre-operative measurements and post-operative comfort.

We therefore evaluate the eye surface before surgery. If treatment is needed, we may address dry eye or other surface conditions first and reassess the eyes before proceeding.

5. Pupil Size and Night Vision

We measure pupil size and evaluate factors that may affect vision in low-light conditions.

These findings help us plan treatment with the patient's individual visual needs in mind, including concerns such as night vision quality.

Who May Not Be Suitable for SMILE Eye Surgery?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for SMILE.

Corneal shape, corneal thickness, prescription stability, dry eye, or other eye conditions may affect whether SMILE is appropriate.

If the examination shows that SMILE is not recommended, our ophthalmologists will explain the findings and discuss other vision correction options when appropriate.

For patients considering SMILE eye surgery in Korea, a detailed pre-operative examination is an important first step in determining which vision correction procedure best fits their eyes.

Medical reviewer: Dr. Byunghoon Chung, MD  

Ophthalmologist, EYEREUM Eye Clinic  

Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea

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