Treatment Overview
ICL with SMILE Integration in Korea is a cutting-edge hybrid vision correction approach that combines the precision of SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) with the advanced refractive capabilities of ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens) implantation.
This dual-system procedure merges the best of both worlds — the flap-free comfort and stability of SMILE with the reversible, high-definition clarity of ICL technology — offering superior visual outcomes even for patients with high refractive errors, thin corneas, or complex optical profiles.
Korean ophthalmology centers have pioneered this integrated treatment, utilizing AI-calibrated surgical planning, wavefront-guided modeling, and biocompatible ICL lenses to deliver truly customized vision enhancement.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Correct severe myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism beyond the limits of laser-only procedures.
- Provide long-term visual stability through lens-based and corneal reshaping synergy.
- Preserve corneal tissue and maintain biomechanical integrity.
- Offer reversible correction with the option for future lens upgrades or adjustments.
Benefits
- Expanded Eligibility: Ideal for patients unsuitable for LASIK or SMILE alone.
- Hybrid Precision: SMILE reshapes the cornea, while ICL fine-tunes optical focus.
- Enhanced Clarity: Wavefront-guided correction ensures sharp contrast and night vision.
- Flap-Free Safety: SMILE’s micro-incision design reduces dryness and preserves nerves.
- Reversible & Upgradable: The ICL can be replaced or removed if prescriptions change.
- Rapid Recovery: Minimal discomfort and fast visual improvement.
Ideal Candidates
ICL with SMILE Integration in Korea is ideal for:
- Adults aged 21–50 with a stable prescription for at least one year.
- Patients with high myopia (-6.00D to -20.00D) or hyperopia beyond SMILE’s typical range.
- Individuals with thin or irregular corneas not suitable for full laser ablation.
- Those seeking reversible, long-term vision correction.
- Patients prioritizing optical quality, comfort, and visual stability.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although extremely safe in Korea, mild and temporary effects may occur:
- Dry Eyes or Mild Irritation: Typically brief, resolving within a few days.
- Light Sensitivity: Temporary, common after combined procedures.
- Halos or Glare: Often subside as the eyes adjust to the new refractive profile.
- ICL-Related Risks: Rare issues such as lens misalignment or intraocular pressure increase, carefully monitored post-surgery.
- Inflammation: Very rare due to Korea’s advanced sterile surgical environments.
Korean ophthalmologists use real-time intraoperative imaging, AI-guided ICL placement, and 3D biometric mapping to minimize risk and ensure perfect alignment.
Techniques & Technology Used
Core Techniques
- Femtosecond SMILE Correction: Removes a tiny corneal lenticule via micro-incision for base correction.
- ICL Implantation: A collamer lens is placed behind the iris to enhance or fine-tune visual power.
- AI-Based Dual Planning: Synchronizes corneal and lens corrections for unified optical precision.
- Wavefront & Topography Mapping: Corrects higher-order aberrations and enhances depth perception.
- Biocompatible ICL Material: Made of collamer that integrates naturally with the eye’s physiology.
- Oxygen & Biologic Recovery Systems: Accelerate healing and maintain ocular hydration.
Korean clinics employ ZEISS VisuMax 800, STAAR EVO+ ICL, and SCHWIND ATOS platforms for seamless laser-lens integration.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
- Comprehensive Eye Evaluation:
Includes corneal imaging, wavefront analysis, endothelial cell count, and anterior chamber depth measurement. - AI-Driven Surgical Planning:
Custom plan created to coordinate SMILE reshaping with ICL lens parameters. - SMILE Laser Correction:
Femtosecond laser removes a precise lenticule to correct part of the refractive error. - ICL Implantation:
Surgeon inserts the foldable collamer lens through a micro-incision behind the iris. - Biologic Stabilization:
Oxygen-enriched therapy and lubricating drops support corneal healing. - Post-Operative Imaging:
Confirms lens alignment and corneal curvature stability.
Duration: Approximately 30–40 minutes total for both procedures.
Recovery: Most patients achieve clear, stable vision within 24–48 hours.
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use antibiotic, steroidal, and lubricating drops as prescribed.
- Avoid rubbing eyes or applying pressure for at least one week.
- Wear sunglasses to reduce light sensitivity outdoors.
- Avoid swimming, saunas, or intense exercise for 2–3 weeks.
- Attend follow-up visits to assess ICL position and corneal healing.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1–2: Significant improvement in clarity and color vibrancy.
- Week 1: Stabilized vision; most daily activities resumed.
- Weeks 2–4: Enhanced contrast, depth, and visual sharpness.
- 1–3 Months: Full integration of ICL and stable refractive balance.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Clear, high-definition vision with balanced focus at all distances.
- Minimal glare, halos, or visual distortion.
- Long-term comfort and hydration due to flap-free and biocompatible design.
- Reversible and upgradeable correction for future vision needs.
Longevity
ICL with SMILE Integration provides permanent corneal reshaping combined with reversible lens enhancement, ensuring visual stability for 15–25 years or longer.
Korean clinical results show over 98% patient satisfaction, with exceptional optical clarity and long-term safety.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea leads the global field in integrated refractive surgery, merging SMILE and ICL technologies to achieve results beyond the reach of single-method corrections.
- Dual-System Precision: AI-optimized synchronization between SMILE and ICL platforms.
- Pioneering Surgeons: Global leaders in hybrid refractive innovation and intraocular lens design.
- Biologic Healing Innovation: Clinics integrate oxygen, growth-factor, and tear-film therapies.
- International Expertise: Tailored packages and multilingual care for overseas patients.
- Affordable Excellence: Premium hybrid procedures at globally competitive rates.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology
- AI Dual-Mapping for SMILE + ICL Integration
- Wavefront-Topography Corneal Modeling
- Real-Time ICL Position Tracking
- Biologic Collamer Enhancement Protocols
- Oxygen-Based Regenerative Recovery
- Adaptive Optics Analysis for Custom Refraction
- Hydration-Control Laser Sequencing
These innovations make Korea the global benchmark for hybrid refractive surgery, ensuring unmatched precision, comfort, and visual longevity.
Cost Range
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard SMILE | ₩2,000,000 – ₩3,000,000 | ~$1,400 – $2,200 | Basic flap-free SMILE correction. |
| ICL with SMILE Integration | ₩6,000,000 – ₩8,500,000 | ~$4,300 – $6,100 | Combined laser and lens correction with AI planning. |
| Premium Hybrid Vision Package | ₩8,500,000 – ₩10,000,000+ | ~$6,100 – $7,200+ | Includes biologic recovery therapy, 3D imaging, and post-op ICL alignment care. |
Pricing varies based on surgeon experience, ICL model (EVO+ or TORIC), and aftercare inclusions.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Clinic (Gangnam): Global leader in AI-driven hybrid SMILE–ICL precision surgery.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Specializes in ICL lens customization with SMILE integration for enhanced optical quality.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul): Offers advanced hybrid correction programs for international patients.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Focuses on biologic regenerative care combined with dual-system refractive precision.
