Implantable Collamer Lens(ICL)
Surgery in Seoul Korea
Why Choose ICL?
- ICL involves implanting a thin, biocompatible lens inside the eye—behind the iris and in front of the natural lens—so the natural lens remains intact.
- It offers excellent visual acuity for patients with high refractive errors, thin corneas, or other contraindications for LASIK/LASEK.
- Because the lens is removable/changeable, it gives future flexibility in vision correction.
- Rapid visual recovery and minimal discomfort compared to some other procedures.
Suitability Checklist ✅
Patients may be appropriate for ICL if they meet most of the following:
- Age 21 or older (eye growth stabilised)
- Stable prescription for at least 12 months
- High myopia (e.g., –6.00 D or more) or high astigmatism
- Corneal thickness or shape that makes laser refractive surgery less ideal
- Good general eye health (no uncontrolled glaucoma, cataract, severe dry eye, etc.)
- Realistic expectations and commitment to follow-up care
Pre-Surgery Consultation & Testing
At Apgujeong Eye Clinic we provide:
- Comprehensive eye exam (refraction, corneal mapping, anterior chamber depth, intraocular pressure, lens status)
- Discussion of your visual goals, lifestyle and medical history
- Explanation of lens types (toric vs non-toric), positioning, risks and recovery
- Customised simulation/planning of ICL placement
- Informed consent: procedure benefits, risks (e.g., infection, intra-ocular pressure rise, lens decentration)
The ICL Procedure – Step by Step
- Arrival and check-in at the clinic (approximately 30 min before)
- Local/ topical anaesthesia (eye drops)
- A very small incision is made in the cornea to insert the collamer lens into the eye
- The lens is positioned behind the iris, in front of the natural lens
- Incision may be self-sealing or require a tiny stitch (depending on surgeon)
- Post-implantation check, application of antibiotic/anti-inflammatory eye drops
- Short wait period in recovery before discharge (often same-day)
Post-Operative Care
- Rest for a few hours; avoid strenuous activity for at least 24-48 h
- Use prescribed eye drops (antibiotic + anti-inflammatory) as directed
- Wear protective eyewear at night for a few days (as advised)
- Avoid rubbing the eyes, swimming, sauna, heavy lifting for first 1-2 weeks
- Follow-up visits: usually next day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months
- Report any sudden pain, vision loss, flashes or increased redness immediately
Benefits & What to Expect
- Clearer vision often noticeable within hours to days
- Ability to maintain good vision without glasses/contact lenses in many cases
- Minimal downtime: many patients resume usual routine within days
- Reversible procedure: ICL can be removed/replaced if required
- Long-term results: the collamer lens is designed for durability and compatibility
Risks & Considerations
As with any surgery, there are risks — your surgeon will evaluate suitability in detail. Potential complications include:
- Increased intra-ocular pressure (IOP)
- Cataract formation (though less likely than older lens types)
- Lens mis-positioning or decentration
- Glare or halo around lights (especially in dim light)
- Infection or inflammation (rare)
- Need for future lens exchange or removal
Pricing & Consultation
At Apgujeong Eye Clinic (Gangnam / Seocho-gu, Seoul) we provide transparent pricing and multilingual support. Typically, ICL surgery cost begins from approximately ₩4,900,000 KRW for both eyes (exact quote dependent on your prescription and lens type).
Initial consultation (eye exam + suitability check) is highly recommended—we will deduct this fee from your total should you proceed to surgery.
Why Apgujeong Eye Clinic?
- Convenient location: 3F & 4F, Jinmison Building, 597 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul.
- English-speaking support for international patients.
- Ethical commitment: “Safety • Honesty • Protect” – emphasis on lifelong vision care beyond surgery.
Call to Action
Ready to take the next step toward clear vision? Contact Apgujeong Eye Clinic today for your personalised ICL consultation:
📞 02-3416-1001 (or +82-2-3416-1001 from abroad)
📍 3F & 4F Jinmison Bldg., 597 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul
Hello, this is Dr. Ko from Apgujeong Eye Clinic in Seoul.
Located right next to Exit 4 of Sinsa Station, we are a leading Korea LASIK Clinic providing world-class vision correction surgery for both local and international patients.
Our clinic specializes in SMILE Pro, LASIK, and ICL procedures. Before recommending any surgery, we perform over 50 detailed diagnostic tests—including corneal, retinal, and intraocular pressure checks—to ensure the safest and most precise treatment. With our transparent operating room and state-of-the-art equipment, you can feel confident in both the safety and the quality of your care.
Every year, many international patients visit us. Our English-speaking team supports you through the entire process—from consultation and surgery to full recovery—so you can take the time you need to choose the most suitable vision-correction method.
- Location: Right at Exit 4, Sinsa Station, Subway Line 3 & Shinbundang Line, Seoul
- Reservations: Available via website, phone, email, or KakaoTalk
At Apgujeong Eye Clinic, we believe that “clear vision creates a better life.”
With cutting-edge technology and truly personalized care, we aim to be the best choice for international patients seeking safe and advanced LASIK surgery in Korea.



Trust Your Vision To Experienced, Caring, Apgujeong eye surgeons using the finest vision correction Technology Available.
SMILE LASIK - LASIK - LASEK - CATARACT SURGERY - ICL SURGERY - EYE EXAM
Apgujeong Eye Clinic – Our Differentiating Advantages
Welcome to Apgujeong Eye Clinic, a trusted industry leader in advanced vision correction. Known for its unmatched expertise and proven track record, our clinic has been a top-choice for patients seeking cutting-edge treatments tailored to their unique needs.
With a commitment to global standards and patient-centered care, we offer highly skilled professionals, leading-edge technology, and clinically proven solutions. Our well-established reputation is built on delivering exceptional results and ensuring patient satisfaction guaranteed.
Experience comprehensive care in world-class facilities, where innovative techniques meet personalized attention. Join the thousands who have trusted us to achieve brighter, clearer vision with best-in-class services designed just for you.
10 Reasons to Visit Apgujeong Eye Clinic 😎
- Tired of foggy glasses in Seoul’s steamy saunas? 🥵🕶️ Time for SMILE LASIK!
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SMILE - LASEK- ICL -CATARACT
LASIK
Experience the freedom of clear vision with our advanced LASIK procedures. Say goodbye to glasses and contacts!
LASEK
LASEK is a great option for those with thinner corneas. Discover how this gentle procedure can enhance your sight.
ICL
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) offers a reversible solution for vision correction. Perfect for those who want flexibility.
CATARACT
Cataract surgery can restore your vision and improve your quality of life. Let us guide you through the process.
Request a LASIK Consultation Now!
Are you considering LASIK laser vision correction? Find out if LASIK is right for you.
Our Eye Specialists
Junhyun Kim
Ophthalmology Specialist
Education & Career
- Adjunct Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Hanyang University College of Medicine
- Internship & Residency, Hanyang University Hospital, Department of Ophthalmology
- Clinical Research Fellow, Harvard University, USA
- Completed Fellowship at Schepens Eye Research Institute, USA
- Research Fellow, Nippon Medical School, Japan
- Current Member, Korean Ophthalmological Society
- Current Member, Korean Retina Society
- Member, ASCRS (American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery)
- Member, ESCRS (European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons)
Awards & Achievements
- Gold Award, Korean Ophthalmological Society
- Medical Academic Excellence Award
- Reviewer, Experimental Eye Research
- Reviewer, Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
- Listed in “Top 100 Doctors in Korea”
Byungwoo Ko
Ophthalmology Specialist
Education & Career
- M.D., Hanyang University College of Medicine
- Specialist in Ophthalmology, Hanyang University Hospital
- Former Specialist, Samsung Medical Center, Ophthalmology Department
- Clinical Lecturer, Ophthalmology, Samsung Medical Center
- Adjunct Professor, Ophthalmology, Hanyang University Hospital
- Current Partner Doctor, Samsung Seoul Hospital (SMC)
- Current Member, Korean Ophthalmological Society
- Current Member, Korean External Eye Disease Society
- Current Member, KSCRS (Korean Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery)
- Current Member, Korean Contact Lens Society
- Current Member, ARVO (Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, USA)
Awards & Achievements
- Academic Research Award, 98th Annual Korean Ophthalmology Conference
- 2016 Grand Prize, Ophthalmology & Presbyopia Section, Health Chosun
- 2019 Consumer’s Choice Award, Korea Consumer Forum
- Award for Excellence in Ophthalmic Surgery
Sunghwan Kim
Ophthalmology Specialist
Education & Career
- M.D., Catholic University College of Medicine
- Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Catholic University College of Medicine
- Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Konkuk University Medical Center
- Director, Saeum Ophthalmology Clinic
- Member, American Retina Society
- Member, International Retina Society
- Member, Korean Ophthalmological Society
- Member, Korean Retina Society
- Member, Korean Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery Society
- Member, Korean Contact Lens Society
- Member, Korean Photorefractive Surgery Society
- Former Director, Gangnam Saeum Ophthalmology Clinic
Seungeun Lee
Ophthalmology Specialist
Education & Career
- M.S. in Medicine, Dankook University Graduate School of Medicine
- Ophthalmology Specialist, Dankook University Hospital
- Current Member, Korean Ophthalmological Society
- Current Member, Korean Contact Lens Society
- Former Director, Gangnam Eye & Vision Clinic
- Former Vice Director, Gangbuk Eye Clinic




















