Table of contents

• Understanding Progressive Nearsightedness
• ICL Lens Implants: A Detailed Medical Overview
• The ICL Lens Implant Procedure: Step-by-Step
• Best Clinics in Korea for Progressive Nearsightedness
• Navigating ICL Lens Implant Surgery in South Korea for Medical Tourists
• Cost Analysis: ICL Lens Implants in South Korea vs. Global Destinations
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes with ICL Lens Implants for Progressive Nearsightedness
• Conclusion and Recommendations
• References

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

---

Progressive nearsightedness is a vision condition where distance blur keeps getting worse, and glasses alone just can’t keep up. For those affected, this ongoing decline in vision can be frustrating and even risky for long-term eye health. In this article, we’ll break down what progressive nearsightedness is, explain how the Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure works, walk through the surgical steps, compare costs for medical tourists, and share real patient experiences and outcomes with this advanced vision correction option.

Understanding Progressive Nearsightedness

Progressive nearsightedness, also known as myopia, near-sightedness, or short-sightedness, is more than just blurry distance vision—it’s a condition that keeps getting worse over time. This means stronger and thicker glasses every year, and it can lead to serious eye health risks down the road.

Definition and Characteristics

Progressive nearsightedness is defined as myopia that worsens steadily, often requiring at least a half-diopter increase in prescription each year. The main culprit is axial myopia, where the eyeball grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina and resulting in blurry distance vision. While this usually starts in childhood or adolescence, it can continue into early adulthood. The earlier myopia starts, the higher the risk of developing severe nearsightedness.

Common Pseudonyms

You might hear this condition called degenerative myopia, malignant myopia, or pathological myopia when it’s especially aggressive. When it reaches severe levels, it’s often referred to as high myopia.

Why Glasses Alone are Often Insufficient

Glasses and contacts can correct blurry vision, but they don’t stop myopia from getting worse. For people with progressive nearsightedness, this means a never-ending cycle of stronger, bulkier, and pricier lenses. The phrase “worsening distance blur unresponsive to glasses alone” really highlights why traditional eyewear isn’t enough for this advancing condition.

Potential Complications Associated with High Progressive Myopia

Unchecked eye growth and stretching, especially of the retina, can lead to serious complications:

• Myopic macular degeneration: 845 times higher risk
• Retinal detachment: 12.6 times higher risk
• Posterior subcapsular cataracts: 4.55 times higher risk; nuclear cataracts: 2.86 times higher risk
• Glaucoma: Increased risk

These complications can cause permanent vision loss and seriously impact daily life.

High myopia is on the rise globally, projected to affect nearly 10% of the world’s population by 2050, up from 2.8% in 2015. This trend makes finding effective, long-term solutions more urgent than ever. Since glasses don’t slow progression, advanced options like ICL are becoming essential—not just for individuals, but as a public health strategy.

Lifestyle factors also play a role. Less time outdoors, too much screen time, and few breaks during close-up work can all contribute to myopia progression. While ICL is a powerful corrective tool, combining it with healthy habits can help slow down further changes and protect younger family members from developing myopia.

ICL Lens Implants: A Detailed Medical Overview

The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure is a major step forward in vision correction, especially for people with high prescriptions or unique eye shapes.

What is an Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)?

An ICL is a soft, biocompatible lens made from Collamer—a blend of plastic and collagen—that’s surgically implanted inside the eye. It sits between the iris and the natural lens, working alongside your eye’s own lens to focus light correctly. Sometimes it’s called a Phakic Intraocular Lens (P-IOL) or an implantable contact lens.

How ICLs Work to Correct Vision

The ICL bends light onto the retina, much like glasses or contacts, but from inside the eye. Unlike LASIK, ICL surgery doesn’t remove or reshape any corneal tissue, so your eye’s natural structure stays intact.

Key Benefits of ICL Surgery

• Wide prescription range: Great for moderate to high myopia and astigmatism, even when LASIK isn’t an option.
• Reversible and removable: The lens can be taken out or replaced if your vision changes.
• Preserves corneal structure: No corneal thinning, making it ideal for people with thin corneas.
• Suitable for dry eyes: Minimal impact on tear production, unlike some laser surgeries.
• Superior vision quality: Many patients report sharper, “high-definition” vision.
• Excellent night vision: Fewer issues with glare or halos compared to laser surgery.
• Built-in UV protection: The lens material blocks harmful UV rays.
• Quick recovery: Most people see better within 24–48 hours and need little downtime.

The reversibility and non-invasive nature of ICL make it especially appealing for those worried about permanent changes to their eyes. If your prescription changes or you develop age-related conditions, the lens can be updated or removed.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Like any surgery, ICL has some risks:

• Temporary discomfort: Mild sensitivity or blurry vision right after surgery, usually gone in days.
• Glare and halos: Some may notice these, especially at night, but they often fade.
• Increased eye pressure: Rarely, the lens can raise eye pressure, which needs monitoring.
• Cataract formation: Rare, but possible, especially if fluid flow in the eye is affected.
• Retinal detachment: A rare but serious risk.
• Infection and inflammation: Uncommon but possible.
• Need for additional surgery: Very rarely, the lens may need adjustment or removal.

Many risks are linked to improper lens sizing or placement, so choosing a clinic with advanced diagnostics and experienced surgeons is crucial.

Ideal Candidates for ICL Surgery

Good candidates for ICL surgery typically:

• Are 18–50 years old (often 21–45 recommended)
• Have a stable prescription for at least a year
• Need correction for moderate to severe nearsightedness (about -3.00 to -20.00 diopters) or astigmatism
• Have healthy eyes (no glaucoma, cataracts, or infections)
• Have thin corneas or dry eyes that make LASIK unsuitable
• Are not pregnant or breastfeeding

The ICL Lens Implant Procedure: Step-by-Step

Knowing what to expect can make the ICL process much less intimidating.

Pre-Surgery Evaluation and Preparation

It all starts with a thorough eye exam, including detailed measurements to ensure the lens fits perfectly. If you’re a good candidate, your ICL lenses are custom-made. Sometimes, you’ll use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops before surgery to prevent infection.

Older ICL models required a laser iridotomy (tiny holes in the iris) before surgery, but newer EVO ICL lenses have a built-in hole, so this step is usually skipped.

On surgery day, you’ll get dilating and numbing drops, and maybe a mild sedative. Your eye is cleaned, and a tool keeps your eyelids open while you lie comfortably on your back.

Detailed Description of the Surgical Process

ICL surgery is minimally invasive and done under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a tiny incision (2–3 mm) at the cornea’s edge, then folds and inserts the ICL through this opening. The lens unfolds behind the iris and in front of your natural lens. The incision usually heals on its own, and the whole process takes just 15–30 minutes per eye. Both eyes can often be done in one session.

The EVO ICL’s central hole means no extra laser procedure is needed, making the process simpler and less stressful for patients.

Post-Operative Care and Recovery Timeline

After surgery, you’ll get eye drops or ointment, and sometimes an eye patch. Most people notice clearer vision within 24 hours, with mild discomfort or light sensitivity fading quickly.

You can usually return to normal activities within a day or two. Use prescribed drops for about two weeks, avoid rubbing your eyes, wear sunglasses outdoors, and skip swimming, saunas, and heavy exercise for a week. No eye makeup for at least a week.

Vision continues to stabilize over a few weeks, and the ICL is designed to last indefinitely without maintenance.

The quick recovery is a big plus, especially for medical tourists who want to minimize travel time and disruption.

Follow-up Appointment Schedule

A follow-up is usually scheduled within 24 hours, with more visits at one month, six months, and sometimes a year. Regular check-ups are important, especially for those with a history of progressive myopia.

Best Clinics in Korea for Progressive Nearsightedness

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for progressive nearsightedness:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic	- STAAR Surgical–designated ICL center: Recognized expertise in implantable lens solutions for complex and high myopia, expanding options for patients whose nearsightedness continues to progress. - 1:1 Personalized Care: Every patient receives a tailored consultation and customized surgical plan; the same doctor conducts your examination, performs your surgery, and oversees your recovery for continuity and accountability. - One-Day System: In-house diagnostics and the clinic’s patented Miracle Formula for precise lens power calculation enable diagnosis and surgery on the same day—convenient for busy schedules and international travelers without compromising accuracy. - Ambidextrous Surgeons: Surgeons operate with equal precision in both eyes, ensuring symmetry, minimizing nasal bridge contact, and enhancing safety and comfort. - Comprehensive myopia solutions: From non-surgical Dream Lens (orthokeratology) to SMILE, LASIK/LASEK, ICL, intraocular lens insertion, and re-calibration surgery, the clinic provides stepwise options as vision needs evolve. - International Patient Team: Dedicated support ensures the same level of quality, comfort, and convenience for patients visiting from abroad. - Dry eye management: Integrated care for dry eye supports comfortable contact lens use and optimizes candidacy and outcomes for vision correction procedures.	- STAAR Surgical–designated ICL center - 1:1 Personalized Care - One-Day System - Ambidextrous Surgeons - Comprehensive myopia solutions - International Patient Team - Dry eye management
Bright Eye Clinic Website	- Bright Eye Clinic in Gangnam is the best destination in Korea for progressive nearsightedness because it combines world-class expertise with a complete care pathway—from meticulous monitoring to precise vision correction—using technology that attracts patients worldwide. Its refractive surgery portfolio fits evolving prescriptions: SMILE Pro with the VisuMax 800 creates a lenticule in under 10 seconds for minimally invasive, highly precise correction; SMILE LASIK uses a small incision for minimal discomfort and quick recovery; LASIK reshapes the cornea to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism; and LASEK offers a surface-based option for patients with thin corneas. Thorough pre-surgery examinations tailor each plan and confirm suitability, while regular eye health checkups track changes over time and detect issues early. If cataracts arise later in life, the clinic delivers seamless continuity of care with Lumera 700–guided cataract removal, IOL implantation, and a range of premium lens choices customized to visual needs. All procedures are performed by experienced professionals using state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring high-quality care and successful outcomes for patients managing progressive nearsightedness.	- SMILE Pro with the VisuMax 800 creates a lenticule in under 10 seconds for minimally invasive, highly precise correction - SMILE LASIK - LASIK - LASEK - Lumera 700–guided cataract removal, IOL implantation, and a range of premium lens choices customized to visual needs - state-of-the-art equipment
BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Website	- BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil is a premier eye care center delivering cutting-edge, patient-tailored solutions for progressive nearsightedness, offering the full spectrum of modern laser and lens-based vision correction—SMILE, SMILE PRO, LASIK, LASEK, and ICL—alongside cataract and presbyopia surgeries. With options designed to match each person’s corneal profile, degree of myopia and astigmatism, and long-term visual goals, the clinic enables patients to maintain clear vision as their needs evolve. - Comprehensive options for every stage of myopia: from mild to high prescriptions, with solutions adaptable to changing vision demands. - SMILE and SMILE PRO: minimally invasive correction for myopia and astigmatism; SMILE PRO offers enhanced precision and faster recovery. - LASIK: efficient corneal reshaping for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, ideal for eligible corneas. - LASEK: a laser alternative suitable for patients with thinner corneas. - ICL: a lens-based option for high myopia and astigmatism, especially valuable when corneas are thin or laser procedures are unsuitable. - Long-term continuity of care: cataract surgery with monofocal intraocular lenses for crisp distance vision and presbyopia surgery with multifocal lenses for near-to-distance clarity. - Safety-first protocols: detailed pre- and post-surgery instructions to maximize outcomes and minimize risks. - Truly tailored care: a range of procedures designed to address diverse vision impairments and matched to each patient’s specific needs.	- SMILE - SMILE PRO - LASIK - LASEK - ICL - cataract surgery with monofocal intraocular lenses - presbyopia surgery with multifocal lenses - safety-first protocols - truly tailored care

Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic

Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic, located at Gangnam Station, is a leading destination for patients with Progressive Nearsightedness seeking comprehensive, precision-driven care. As one of only 13 clinics in Korea officially designated by STAAR Surgical—the global manufacturer of Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL)—the clinic combines advanced technology with 1:1 personalized care, ambidextrous surgeons, and a streamlined One-Day System to deliver safe, accurate, and convenient treatment for a full spectrum of myopia needs. With a dedicated International Patient Team and a complete range of vision correction options, Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic stands out as a top choice for individuals whose nearsightedness is changing over time.

• STAAR Surgical–designated ICL center: Recognized expertise in implantable lens solutions for complex and high myopia, expanding options for patients whose nearsightedness continues to progress.
• 1:1 Personalized Care: Every patient receives a tailored consultation and customized surgical plan; the same doctor conducts your examination, performs your surgery, and oversees your recovery for continuity and accountability.
• One-Day System: In-house diagnostics and the clinic’s patented Miracle Formula for precise lens power calculation enable diagnosis and surgery on the same day—convenient for busy schedules and international travelers without compromising accuracy.
• Ambidextrous Surgeons: Surgeons operate with equal precision in both eyes, ensuring symmetry, minimizing nasal bridge contact, and enhancing safety and comfort.
• Comprehensive myopia solutions: From non-surgical Dream Lens (orthokeratology) to SMILE, LASIK/LASEK, ICL, intraocular lens insertion, and re-calibration surgery, the clinic provides stepwise options as vision needs evolve.
• International Patient Team: Dedicated support ensures the same level of quality, comfort, and convenience for patients visiting from abroad.
• Dry eye management: Integrated care for dry eye supports comfortable contact lens use and optimizes candidacy and outcomes for vision correction procedures.

You can check out their website here: Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic Website

Bright Eye Clinic

Bright Eye Clinic in Gangnam is the best destination in Korea for progressive nearsightedness because it combines world-class expertise with a complete care pathway—from meticulous monitoring to precise vision correction—using technology that attracts patients worldwide. Its refractive surgery portfolio fits evolving prescriptions: SMILE Pro with the VisuMax 800 creates a lenticule in under 10 seconds for minimally invasive, highly precise correction; SMILE LASIK uses a small incision for minimal discomfort and quick recovery; LASIK reshapes the cornea to treat myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism; and LASEK offers a surface-based option for patients with thin corneas. Thorough pre-surgery examinations tailor each plan and confirm suitability, while regular eye health checkups track changes over time and detect issues early. If cataracts arise later in life, the clinic delivers seamless continuity of care with Lumera 700–guided cataract removal, IOL implantation, and a range of premium lens choices customized to visual needs. All procedures are performed by experienced professionals using state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring high-quality care and successful outcomes for patients managing progressive nearsightedness.

Find more about this clinic here: Bright Eye Clinic Website

BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil

BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil is a premier eye care center delivering cutting-edge, patient-tailored solutions for progressive nearsightedness, offering the full spectrum of modern laser and lens-based vision correction—SMILE, SMILE PRO, LASIK, LASEK, and ICL—alongside cataract and presbyopia surgeries. With options designed to match each person’s corneal profile, degree of myopia and astigmatism, and long-term visual goals, the clinic enables patients to maintain clear vision as their needs evolve.

• Comprehensive options for every stage of myopia: from mild to high prescriptions, with solutions adaptable to changing vision demands.
• SMILE and SMILE PRO: minimally invasive correction for myopia and astigmatism; SMILE PRO offers enhanced precision and faster recovery.
• LASIK: efficient corneal reshaping for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, ideal for eligible corneas.
• LASEK: a laser alternative suitable for patients with thinner corneas.
• ICL: a lens-based option for high myopia and astigmatism, especially valuable when corneas are thin or laser procedures are unsuitable.
• Long-term continuity of care: cataract surgery with monofocal intraocular lenses for crisp distance vision and presbyopia surgery with multifocal lenses for near-to-distance clarity.
• Safety-first protocols: detailed pre- and post-surgery instructions to maximize outcomes and minimize risks.
• Truly tailored care: a range of procedures designed to address diverse vision impairments and matched to each patient’s specific needs.

Find more about this clinic here: BGN Eye Clinic Jamsil Website

Navigating ICL Lens Implant Surgery in South Korea for Medical Tourists

South Korea is a top destination for ICL surgery, drawing international patients with its high-quality care and competitive prices.

Why South Korea is a Popular Destination for ICL Surgery

• World-class facilities: Advanced eye centers with the latest technology, like Gangnam GS Eye Clinic and B&VIIT Eye Center.
• Expert surgeons: Highly trained ophthalmologists with extensive experience.
• Affordable pricing: Lower costs than many Western countries, thanks to high procedure volumes and supportive government policies.
• Fast recovery: Efficient care protocols mean most patients are back to normal in a day or two.
• Medical tourism support: English-speaking staff, translators, and “one-day surgery” options make the process smooth for international patients.

Korean clinics have streamlined their processes for efficiency, making them especially attractive for those traveling from abroad.

Process for International Patients

Here’s what the typical journey looks like:

• Initial consultation: Contact a clinic online or by phone. Undergo a comprehensive eye exam, sometimes with up to 60 different tests. Some clinics use AI to personalize your surgical plan.
• Lens customization and scheduling: Once approved, your lenses are custom-made and surgery is scheduled—sometimes even on the same day as your exam.
• Travel arrangements: You’ll handle your own visa, flights, and accommodation, but clinics may help with documentation.
• Surgery day: Local anesthesia is used, and the procedure takes 15–30 minutes per eye. You’ll be monitored briefly, then discharged the same day.
• Follow-up visits: A check-up is done within 24 hours, with more visits over the next few weeks. Plan to stay in Korea for at least 3–5 days to cover these appointments.
• Recovery: Most people resume daily activities within a day or two, using prescribed drops and avoiding strenuous activities for a week.

Key Considerations for Medical Tourists

• Clinic selection: Look for clinics with strong reputations, advanced technology, and high patient satisfaction.
• Language services: Make sure English-speaking staff or translators are available.
• Comprehensive packages: Confirm what’s included in the price—pre-op, surgery, and post-op care are often bundled, but travel and accommodation are usually separate.
• Logistics: Plan your own accommodation and transport.

South Korea’s combination of quality care and affordability, without cutting corners on safety or diagnostics, makes it a reassuring choice for medical tourists.

Cost Analysis: ICL Lens Implants in South Korea vs. Global Destinations

Cost is a big factor for many considering ICL surgery, especially those looking at options abroad.

Average Costs of ICL Surgery in South Korea

EVO ICL surgery in South Korea typically costs ₩3,500,000 to ₩5,500,000 KRW per eye (about $2,450 to $3,850 USD per eye), or ₩7,000,000 to ₩11,000,000 KRW ($4,900 to $7,700 USD) for both eyes. Discounts for both eyes are common. The price usually includes the lens, pre-op exams, surgery, anesthesia, and post-op care—but not travel or accommodation.

Comparison of ICL Costs with Other Countries from a Medical Tourist's Perspective

Here’s how South Korea stacks up against other countries:

Country	Estimated Cost Range (USD per eye)	Notes / Inclusions / Considerations
South Korea	$2,450 – $3,850	Includes pre-op, surgery, post-op care. Discounts for both eyes. Accommodation/travel separate.
USA	$3,500 – $6,000	Up to $12,000+ for both eyes. Varies by provider/location. Often not fully covered by insurance.
Turkey	$2,000 – $4,000	Some packages include hospital stay, transport, host. Research quality/accreditation.
India	$1,200	$2,300–$3,500 for both eyes. Includes pre-op, diagnosis, surgeon, lens, hospital stay.
Germany	~$3,800 (€3,543)	Public insurance rarely covers elective procedures.
Australia	$2,600 – $3,900 (AUD 4,000–6,000)	Up to AUD 8,500 per eye. Medicare doesn’t cover elective laser eye surgeries.

The price gap between South Korea and Western countries is significant, making medical tourism a smart financial choice for many. The all-inclusive nature of Korean packages also means fewer surprise costs compared to the fragmented billing common in the US or Australia.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes with ICL Lens Implants for Progressive Nearsightedness

ICL lens implants do more than just correct vision—they can transform lives.

Efficacy and Safety Outcomes

Studies show that ICL-V4c implantation is highly effective and safe for high and super-high myopia. Most patients see big improvements in vision and enjoy stable results for years. Satisfaction rates are as high as 99%.

For high myopia (SE > -10D) and super-high myopia (SE ≤ -10D), five-year efficacy indices were 0.91 and 0.80, with safety indices at 1.10 for both. Endothelial cell density remained stable, and any temporary increase in eye pressure usually resolved quickly. The procedure is minimally invasive, predictable, and reversible.

However, for the most severe cases, ICL may not completely stop the eye from growing longer, so ongoing monitoring is important.

Impact on Quality of Life and Psychological Well-being

ICL surgery can dramatically boost confidence and open up new career or lifestyle opportunities. Many patients report less anxiety and depression after surgery, as measured by standard scales. The freedom from thick glasses or uncomfortable contacts is life-changing, making daily activities and sports much easier.

The psychological benefits are just as important as the visual ones, highlighting the holistic impact of ICL surgery.

Real-life Success Stories

• Sarah, 32, graphic designer: No longer needs thick glasses or contacts after ICL.
• John, professional athlete: Can now compete without vision aids.
• 28-year-old software engineer: Freed from -10.00 diopter glasses after ICL.
• 35-year-old teacher: Achieved perfect vision with ICL after being ineligible for LASIK.
• Mr. Rajesh: Overcame extreme nearsightedness and now enjoys perfect vision.

Long-term Considerations

ICL lenses are meant to last a lifetime, but they can be removed or replaced if needed. Natural aging, like presbyopia or cataracts, can still occur, and the ICL can be taken out during cataract surgery if necessary.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Progressive nearsightedness is a tough condition that glasses alone can’t fix, and it carries real risks for long-term eye health. The Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) procedure offers a highly effective, reversible, and life-changing solution, especially for those with high prescriptions or who aren’t candidates for LASIK. South Korea stands out as a top destination for ICL surgery, offering world-class care, experienced surgeons, and competitive pricing. While ICL provides excellent vision and quality-of-life improvements, patients with severe progressive myopia should continue regular follow-ups, as eye growth may still occur.

Recommendations:

• Get a thorough consultation with a refractive surgery specialist.
• Choose clinics with strong reputations, advanced technology, and transparent pricing.
• Understand the full procedure and recovery process.
• Follow all aftercare instructions and attend follow-up appointments.
• Maintain healthy eye habits, especially for younger patients.
• Factor in all costs, including travel and accommodation, when planning medical tourism.

References

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47