Treatment Overview
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS) in Korea represents the most advanced, precise, and safe method for cataract removal and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation available today.
This cutting-edge technique uses an ultrafast femtosecond laser to perform key steps of cataract surgery—including corneal incision, anterior capsulotomy, and lens fragmentation—with micron-level accuracy, replacing several manual surgical steps performed by hand in traditional phacoemulsification.
Korean ophthalmologists integrate AI-guided ocular biometry, real-time 3D anterior segment imaging, and computer-calibrated laser pulses to achieve superior precision, minimal trauma, and faster healing.
FLACS in Korea combines the artistry of microsurgery with the consistency of robotic precision, providing patients with sharper vision, improved safety, and enhanced long-term outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Remove cataracts with ultra-precise laser incisions instead of manual blades.
- Perform a perfectly centered capsulotomy for ideal IOL positioning.
- Pre-soften and fragment the lens to minimize ultrasound energy use.
- Restore optimal clarity, contrast, and color vision.
- Provide a customized, computer-guided cataract surgery experience.
Benefits
- Unmatched Precision: Laser accuracy up to 10 microns for flawless incision geometry.
- Enhanced Safety: Computer-guided imaging minimizes risk of tissue trauma.
- Faster Recovery: Reduced energy and inflammation lead to quicker visual rehabilitation.
- Perfect IOL Alignment: Ensures precise centration for premium lenses.
- Minimized Corneal Damage: Low ultrasound energy preserves corneal endothelial health.
- Customizable for Any Eye: AI imaging adapts laser parameters to each patient’s anatomy.
Ideal Candidates
Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with age-related or advanced cataracts seeking superior precision.
- Individuals desiring premium IOL implantation (EDOF, multifocal, or Toric lenses).
- Those with corneal astigmatism benefiting from laser-created arcuate incisions.
- Patients requiring predictable refractive outcomes and faster recovery.
- Individuals preferring the most technologically advanced cataract solution available.
Possible Risks & Complications
While FLACS is exceptionally safe, mild or temporary effects may include:
- Mild Redness or Irritation: Common and resolves within a few days.
- Transient Blurriness: Due to corneal hydration during surgery.
- Dry Eyes or Light Sensitivity: Temporary; managed with lubricating drops.
- Rare Capsular Tags or Microbubbles: Automatically detected and compensated by the laser system.
- Posterior Capsular Opacification (PCO): A rare long-term effect easily corrected with YAG laser.
Korean ophthalmologists minimize complications through AI-calibrated laser programming, 3D ocular mapping, and intraoperative OCT feedback.
Techniques & Technology Used
Core Techniques
- Femtosecond Laser Incision Creation: Blade-free, computer-programmed corneal entry points for enhanced safety.
- Laser Capsulotomy: Perfectly circular anterior capsule opening with micron precision.
- Lens Fragmentation: Pre-softens cataract for efficient phacoemulsification.
- Arcuate Keratotomy (Optional): Corrects mild astigmatism via precise corneal arcs.
- AI-Guided Biometry & Aberrometry: Calculates exact IOL power and placement.
- Real-Time OCT Imaging: Provides 3D visualization of all surgical layers.
Korean clinics use leading femtosecond laser systems such as Alcon LenSx®, Johnson & Johnson Catalys®, Zeiss VisuMax®, and LensAR®, integrated with AI and fluidics platforms like Centurion® Vision System for unparalleled surgical control.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment:
Comprehensive imaging (OCT, biometry, corneal topography) evaluates cataract density, corneal curvature, and IOL specifications.
Step 2 – AI-Guided Surgical Planning:
Laser parameters and IOL alignment are programmed based on ocular anatomy and visual goals.
Step 3 – Femtosecond Laser Procedure:
The laser creates precise corneal incisions, performs capsulotomy, and pre-fragments the lens nucleus for smooth removal.
Step 4 – Phacoemulsification & IOL Implantation:
The softened lens material is aspirated gently, and a foldable IOL is implanted with perfect centration.
Step 5 – Postoperative Imaging & Verification:
Surgeons confirm IOL alignment and corneal integrity with OCT and slit-lamp microscopy.
Treatment Duration: 15–25 minutes per eye (outpatient).
Follow-Up: 1 day • 1 week • 1 month • 3 months post-surgery.
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops as prescribed.
- Avoid rubbing the eye, swimming, or strenuous activity for 1 week.
- Protect eyes from dust and UV light using sunglasses.
- Maintain hydration and rest your eyes frequently.
- Attend all postoperative visits for visual evaluation and IOL stability checks.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1–3: Clearer vision and reduced glare sensitivity.
- Week 1: Noticeable improvement in brightness and contrast.
- Weeks 2–4: Vision stabilizes; minor dryness or halos resolve.
- 1–3 Months: Long-term clarity, full adaptation, and stable refraction achieved.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Crystal-clear vision with sharper focus and contrast.
- Perfectly centered and stable intraocular lens.
- Fast, comfortable recovery with minimal inflammation.
- Reduced dependence on glasses when combined with premium IOLs.
Longevity
FLACS provides permanent restoration of optical clarity, with implanted IOLs lasting a lifetime.
Korean clinics report over 98% success rates, with outstanding patient satisfaction and long-term visual stability extending 20+ years post-surgery.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea leads globally in laser-assisted ophthalmic innovation and AI-integrated cataract surgery, making it one of the most advanced and trusted destinations for precision vision care.
- AI-Calibrated Laser Planning: Achieves sub-micron accuracy and reproducible outcomes.
- World-Class Laser Platforms: Latest LenSx, Catalys, and LensAR technologies.
- Highly Skilled Surgeons: Experts with extensive experience in femtosecond refractive cataract surgery.
- Integrated Diagnostics: Combines OCT, aberrometry, and corneal topography for full ocular mapping.
- Premium IOL Selection: Custom-matched to each patient’s vision needs (monofocal, toric, multifocal, EDOF).
- Global Standard Care: Korean clinics maintain international certifications for safety and excellence.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology
- AI-Based 3D Ocular Imaging & IOL Simulation
- Femtosecond Laser + Phaco Integration Workflow
- Intraoperative OCT & Real-Time Lens Tracking
- Smart Fluidics Control for Corneal Protection
- Digital IOL Centration and Astigmatism Correction
- Hybrid Femtosecond-LASIK Vision Optimization for Premium Results
These innovations make Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery in Korea one of the most accurate, comfortable, and technologically superior cataract procedures in the world.
Cost Range
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard FLACS Surgery | ₩3,500,000 – ₩4,800,000 | ~$2,500 – $3,400 | Standard femtosecond-assisted cataract extraction with monofocal IOL and basic aftercare |
| AI-Guided FLACS Premium Package | ₩5,000,000 – ₩6,800,000 | ~$3,600 – $4,900 | Laser-assisted surgery with AI-calibrated IOL power, OCT imaging, and advanced fluidics system |
| Luxury Vision Restoration Program | ₩7,000,000 – ₩9,500,000+ | ~$5,100 – $6,900+ | Includes premium multifocal/EDOF IOL, digital alignment verification, and long-term ocular care |
Pricing may vary based on IOL type, cataract density, and clinic technology platform.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Global leaders in AI-driven FLACS and premium refractive cataract care.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Specialists in femtosecond-assisted cataract and Toric IOL alignment.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul): Offers precision FLACS with integrated 3D eye mapping and premium IOL options.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Experts in micro-incision laser cataract surgery and postoperative adaptation programs.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Pioneers in AI-calibrated femtosecond systems and hybrid cataract-laser treatments.
