Ophthalmology Medical Tourism A to Z — The Complete Guide for First-Time International Patients
2026.05Practical Guide

Ophthalmology Medical Tourism A to Z — The Complete Guide for First-Time International Patients

4 min readMediQueen Editorial

From stopping contact lenses to surgery, recovery, and post-return follow-up. A complete A-to-Z guide through every stage of Korean ophthalmology medical tourism.

Ophthalmology Medical Tourism A to Z — The Complete Guide for First-Time International Patients

A step-by-step guide for international patients visiting Korea for eye surgery for the first time. From pre-examination to surgery, recovery, and follow-up care.

STEP 1: Pre-Departure Preparation (2–4 weeks before)

• Stop wearing contact lenses (soft lenses 1 week, hard lenses 2 weeks prior)

• Prepare basic exam results from local ophthalmologist (English available)

• Book hospital and accommodation through MediQueen

• Purchase travel insurance (confirm eye surgery coverage)

STEP 2: Comprehensive Examination in Korea (Day 1)

• Over 20 precision ophthalmology tests (approximately 2–3 hours)

• Comprehensive measurement of corneal thickness, pupil size, eye pressure, retinal condition

• 1:1 consultation with specialist based on results

• Confirm optimal procedure and schedule

STEP 3: Surgery Day (Day 2)

• Surgery time: 10–20 minutes for both eyes

• Return to accommodation 30 minutes to 1 hour after surgery

• Protective eye shield and prescribed eye drops (antibiotics + anti-inflammatory)

STEP 4: Recovery Period (Day 3–7)

• Next-day follow-up examination (mandatory)

• SMILE/LASIK: Daily activities possible within 1–2 days

• LASEK: 3–5 days recovery needed

• Combine sightseeing and recovery — Seoul/Daegu tourism recommended

STEP 5: Post-Return Follow-Up Care

• Check-ups recommended at 1, 3, and 6 months

• Linkage with local ophthalmologist possible (English medical records provided)

• MediQueen online follow-up consultation support

Recommended Stay Duration

Vision correction: minimum 3–5 days / Cataract surgery: minimum 3–4 days / Full exam + surgery + tourism: 7–10 days recommended