Treatment Overview
SBK LASIK in Korea (Sub-Bowman’s Keratomileusis) is an advanced form of laser vision correction that enhances the traditional LASIK technique with ultra-thin flap precision and greater corneal preservation. The procedure corrects myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism, offering rapid recovery, minimal discomfort, and long-term visual stability.
Unlike conventional LASIK, SBK LASIK creates a super-thin corneal flap — typically between 90–110 microns — preserving more of the corneal stroma underneath. This technique combines the benefits of LASIK’s quick recovery with the safety and biomechanical stability of surface procedures like LASEK.
Korean ophthalmology centers are global leaders in AI-guided SBK LASIK, utilizing femtosecond laser technology, wavefront-optimized excimer lasers, and 3D corneal imaging systems to achieve micron-level precision and exceptional visual outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism with precise, tissue-conserving laser technology.
- Preserve corneal integrity through a thinner, safer flap.
- Reduce the risk of post-surgery complications such as ectasia or dryness.
- Offer quick visual recovery with long-term stability.
Benefits
- Ultra-Thin Flap: Minimizes tissue disruption and preserves corneal strength.
- Fast Recovery: Clear vision often achieved within 24 hours.
- Enhanced Safety: Reduced risk of flap-related issues compared to conventional LASIK.
- Comfortable Procedure: Virtually painless with quick healing time.
- Long-Term Stability: Low regression rates and durable results.
- Ideal for Thin Corneas: Expands eligibility to patients previously unsuitable for LASIK.
Ideal Candidates
SBK LASIK in Korea is ideal for:
- Adults aged 18 or older with stable prescriptions for at least one year.
- Patients with thin corneas or borderline LASIK candidacy.
- Individuals seeking fast recovery and long-lasting results.
- People with active lifestyles who prefer a minimally invasive solution.
- Those desiring a safe, advanced alternative to conventional LASIK.
Possible Risks & Complications
SBK LASIK is one of the safest laser procedures available. However, temporary and mild side effects may include:
- Mild dryness or light sensitivity for a few days.
- Slight halos or glare at night during early recovery.
- Temporary visual fluctuations as the cornea stabilizes.
- Rare under-correction or over-correction that can be refined later.
Korean specialists minimize these risks with AI-calibrated laser systems, real-time eye tracking, and biophotonic healing support, ensuring safe, consistent, and precise outcomes.
Techniques & Technology Used
Core Techniques
- Femtosecond Laser Flap Creation: Ultra-thin, bladeless flap produced with sub-micron precision.
- Excimer Laser Corneal Reshaping: Corrects refractive errors at a molecular level.
- AI-Guided Topography Mapping: Customizes the laser path based on each patient’s corneal shape.
- Wavefront-Guided Ablation: Corrects higher-order aberrations for sharper vision.
- Oxygen-Assisted Cooling System: Reduces inflammation and supports faster healing.
- Biophotonic Laser Therapy: Promotes cell regeneration and reduces post-surgery dryness.
Korean clinics integrate these techniques for superior safety, accuracy, and visual clarity.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
- Comprehensive Eye Evaluation: Includes wavefront analysis, pachymetry, and corneal topography.
- Customized Surgical Planning: AI-driven systems design a unique flap thickness and ablation pattern.
- Femtosecond Laser Flap Creation: A precise, ultra-thin corneal flap is created in seconds.
- Excimer Laser Reshaping: The cornea is reshaped to correct refractive errors.
- Flap Repositioning: The flap is carefully placed back and self-seals naturally without sutures.
- Post-Operative Care: Protective drops and eye shields are provided for healing and comfort.
The procedure takes about 10–15 minutes per eye, and most patients notice improved vision within hours.
Recovery & Aftercare
Aftercare Guidelines
- Use prescribed antibiotic and lubricating eye drops regularly.
- Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes for one week.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to reduce glare and UV exposure.
- Avoid swimming, saunas, and heavy workouts for 1–2 weeks.
- Attend all follow-up visits for visual stability checks.
Recovery Timeline
- 6–12 Hours: Vision begins to clear with mild sensitivity.
- 24 Hours: Most patients achieve functional 20/25 vision or better.
- 1–2 Weeks: Full visual sharpness and comfort restored.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Crystal-clear, natural vision without glasses or contact lenses.
- Minimal dryness and reduced glare.
- Improved visual contrast and night vision.
- Long-term stability and patient comfort.
Longevity
SBK LASIK provides permanent correction for most patients.
Korean clinics report success rates of 98–99%, with 20/20 or better vision achieved in the majority of cases.
Results typically last 10–20 years, with minor enhancements available if needed.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Pioneers in Advanced LASIK: Korea leads in femtosecond SBK LASIK technology.
- AI-Guided Precision: Ensures ultra-thin flap creation and optimal laser ablation.
- Microsurgical Expertise: Korean ophthalmologists perform thousands of procedures annually.
- Rapid, Painless Recovery: Minimal discomfort with near-instant visual improvement.
- Affordable Excellence: 40–60% more cost-effective than Western clinics.
- International Patient Care: Multilingual support and world-class post-op management.
Korea’s combination of AI-guided microsurgery, biologic healing innovation, and femtosecond precision makes it a world leader in SBK LASIK eye surgery.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology
- AI-Calibrated Femtosecond SBK Systems
- Wavefront & Topography-Guided LASIK Platforms
- 3D Corneal Mapping & Vision Simulation
- PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) Corneal Healing Therapy
- Biophotonic Laser Recovery Enhancement
- Oxygen-Enhanced Healing Environment
- AI Vision Stability Tracking Systems
These innovations ensure ultra-precise correction, rapid healing, and long-term safety.
Cost Range
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard SBK LASIK | ₩2,000,000 – ₩3,000,000 | $1,480 – $2,220 | Femtosecond LASIK + thin flap + aftercare |
| Custom Wavefront SBK LASIK | ₩3,200,000 – ₩4,500,000 | $2,370 – $3,330 | AI mapping + wavefront optimization + follow-ups |
| Premium Regenerative SBK Vision Program | ₩5,000,000 – ₩6,500,000 | $3,700 – $4,810 | PRF healing + biophotonic therapy + lifetime vision monitoring |
Popular Clinics
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul): Experts in SBK LASIK and ultra-thin corneal flap techniques.
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Gangnam): Leaders in AI-guided femtosecond LASIK with wavefront optimization.
- Dream Eye Center (Myeongdong): Specialists in SBK LASIK and advanced corneal reshaping.
- Olim Eye Clinic (Gangnam): Pioneers in regenerative laser vision correction and precision microsurgery.
- Eyereum Eye Clinic (Apgujeong): Renowned for biologic, AI-enhanced LASIK with rapid healing protocols.
