Treatment Overview
Clear Lens Extraction (CLE), also known as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), is an advanced vision correction procedure performed in Korea for patients with severe refractive errors, presbyopia (age-related farsightedness), or thin corneas unsuitable for laser-based surgeries alone. The procedure involves replacing the eye’s natural clear lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), permanently correcting refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
When combined with SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) or other laser enhancements, Korean specialists use the Clear Lens Extraction + SMILE approach to achieve complete visual optimization — the lens implant addresses the primary refractive issue, and the SMILE procedure fine-tunes residual astigmatism or minor imperfections on the corneal surface.
Korea is globally recognized for pioneering lens-based refractive technologies, integrating AI-assisted diagnostics, femtosecond laser precision, and premium intraocular lenses to deliver safe, accurate, and long-lasting results for patients seeking spectacle-free vision at all distances.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Correct high myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism beyond the safe treatment limits of laser-only surgery.
- Replace the natural crystalline lens to eliminate refractive errors and prevent future cataract development.
- Combine with SMILE laser refinement for precise astigmatism correction and optical quality enhancement.
- Provide long-term visual stability for patients over 40 seeking clear near, intermediate, and distance vision.
Benefits
- Permanent Vision Correction: Replaces the natural lens, ensuring lasting visual clarity.
- Elimination of Future Cataracts: Once the natural lens is replaced, cataract formation is no longer possible.
- Wide Range of Correction: Effective for extreme myopia or hyperopia cases unsuitable for LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE alone.
- Customized Visual Outcomes: Premium multifocal or toric lenses address astigmatism and presbyopia simultaneously.
- Flap-Free Refinement with SMILE: Enhances residual vision quality and corrects subtle surface irregularities.
- Quick Recovery and Minimal Discomfort: Modern femtosecond laser-assisted techniques minimize incision size and healing time.
Ideal Candidates
Clear Lens Extraction in Korea is suitable for:
- Adults aged 40 or older with presbyopia or those seeking permanent correction of refractive errors.
- Patients with extreme myopia or hyperopia who are not candidates for LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE alone.
- Individuals with thin or irregular corneas that make corneal laser surgery unsafe.
- Patients wanting spectacle-free vision across all distances, including near and far.
- Those with early lens changes or family history of cataracts who prefer proactive vision correction.
Possible Risks & Complications
Though highly successful in experienced Korean clinics, Clear Lens Extraction carries certain risks, as with any intraocular surgery:
- Temporary Blurred Vision: Common in the early healing stage while the eye adapts to the new lens.
- Light Sensitivity or Glare: May occur during night driving, typically improving over time.
- Dryness or Mild Inflammation: Controlled through medicated drops.
- Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO): Cloudiness that can occur months or years later; easily treated with a laser procedure (YAG capsulotomy).
- Retinal Detachment: Extremely rare, monitored closely through advanced imaging and follow-up exams.
Korean ophthalmologists employ precise biometric measurements, advanced lens calculation formulas, and laser-assisted lens removal to minimize these risks and ensure optimal visual outcomes.
Techniques & Technology Used
Core Techniques
- Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Lens Removal: Allows bladeless, precise extraction of the natural lens with minimal tissue disruption.
- Premium Intraocular Lenses (IOLs): Customized for patient needs — options include monofocal, toric (for astigmatism), multifocal, and extended-depth-of-focus lenses.
- AI-Driven Biometric Analysis: Provides accurate measurements for IOL power calculation and corneal curvature mapping.
- SMILE Laser Enhancement: Used post-lens replacement to fine-tune residual astigmatism or refractive irregularities through a small, flap-free incision.
- Real-Time Ocular Guidance: Tracks intraocular positioning to ensure precise IOL placement.
- Regenerative Healing Support: Korean clinics often employ biologic tear treatments and protective recovery regimens for rapid healing.
This blend of lens replacement and laser correction delivers superior accuracy, comfort, and long-term stability.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
- Comprehensive Pre-Operative Assessment:
Includes refraction tests, corneal topography, ocular biometry, anterior chamber depth analysis, and retinal evaluation. - Surgical Planning & IOL Selection:
AI software calculates ideal IOL power and type (monofocal, multifocal, toric) based on patient lifestyle and visual goals. - Lens Extraction & IOL Implantation:
Using femtosecond laser technology, the natural lens is removed through a tiny incision and replaced with a foldable intraocular lens. - SMILE Laser Refinement (if applicable):
SMILE is performed before or after lens surgery to correct fine residual errors or astigmatism. - Protective & Healing Measures:
Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are applied, and protective eyewear is recommended post-surgery. - Follow-Up Monitoring:
Scheduled visits ensure proper lens positioning, visual clarity, and corneal stability during recovery.
The entire procedure typically takes 15–20 minutes per eye, with minimal discomfort and quick recovery under advanced protocols.
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use prescribed antibiotic and lubricating drops as directed.
- Avoid eye rubbing, swimming, and strenuous activities for at least two weeks.
- Wear protective sunglasses outdoors to shield against UV and bright light.
- Sleep with protective eye shields if recommended by the surgeon.
- Attend all follow-up visits for ocular pressure checks and vision stability assessments.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1–3: Noticeable improvement in clarity; mild light sensitivity possible.
- Week 1: Vision stabilizes; most patients resume work and light activities.
- Weeks 2–4: Full focus achieved with improved sharpness and depth of field.
- 1–3 Months: Optimal stability and complete healing; SMILE refinement (if needed) finalized.
Most patients experience a rapid return to normal vision with minimal discomfort or dryness.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Clear, stable vision across all distances, reducing or eliminating dependence on glasses.
- Permanent correction of refractive errors with natural visual comfort.
- No future risk of cataracts due to artificial lens replacement.
- Enhanced visual quality, contrast sensitivity, and color clarity.
Longevity
Clear Lens Extraction provides lifetime vision correction, as the artificial lens does not age or degrade.
- Results remain stable for decades, requiring no retreatment except minor SMILE enhancements if needed.
- Korean clinics report long-term satisfaction and safety exceeding 20 years for properly selected candidates.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea is an international leader in advanced refractive and lens-based surgery, known for its precision, safety, and innovation.
- High-Volume Expertise: Korean surgeons perform thousands of refractive lens procedures annually with globally benchmarked outcomes.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: Clinics utilize next-generation femtosecond lasers, premium IOLs, and AI-driven ocular mapping systems.
- Integrated Care: Seamless combination of Clear Lens Extraction and SMILE ensures optimal correction for complex cases.
- Internationally Oriented Clinics: Multilingual staff, transparent pricing, and tailored recovery plans for overseas patients.
- Comprehensive Aftercare: Korean clinics emphasize long-term eye health monitoring, ensuring vision stability for life.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology
- AI-Assisted Biometric Lens Calculations
- Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Lens Extraction
- Premium Toric & Multifocal IOL Integration
- Flap-Free SMILE Refinement for Residual Astigmatism
- Oxygen & Cooling Therapy for Recovery Enhancement
- Biologic Regenerative Healing Treatments
- Binocular Vision Optimization Software for Depth Accuracy
These integrated methods make Korean ophthalmology a global benchmark for refractive lens surgery excellence.
Cost Range
The cost of Clear Lens Extraction with optional SMILE enhancement in Korea depends on the type of lens, technology, and care package chosen:
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard CLE (Monofocal Lens) | ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,000,000 | ~$2,500 – ~$3,700 | Standard IOL replacement and aftercare for refractive correction. |
| Advanced CLE (Toric/Multifocal Lens) | ₩5,000,000 – ₩7,000,000 | ~$3,700 – ~$5,200 | Premium lens for astigmatism or presbyopia correction, AI-based measurement. |
| CLE + SMILE Enhancement Package | ₩7,000,000 – ₩9,000,000+ | ~$5,200 – ~$6,700+ | Combined treatment with AI-guided SMILE refinement and regenerative healing care. |
Prices vary by clinic, lens type, and technology used.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Clinic (Gangnam): Expert in refractive lens exchange with optional SMILE precision enhancement.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Offers AI-calibrated Clear Lens Extraction for international patients.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Specializes in advanced lens surgery for presbyopia and astigmatism.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Provides premium multifocal IOLs with flap-free laser refinement.
