A Thorough Comparison of 3 Differences Between ICL in Japan and Korea | Cost, Lenses, and Postoperative Follow-Up
🎬 Organized around three aspects: cost, lenses, and postoperative follow-up
YEPPURIKO Editorial Team｜We bring you Korean beauty and medical-tourism information based on on-site coverage and firsthand experiences.
This article was updated in 2024. Always follow your attending physician’s instructions when making decisions regarding medical procedures.
Why Korean ICL Is Now Being Considered for Comparison
When considering ICL in Japan, well-known options such as Zenshin-kai, Shinagawa, and Eye Clinic are usually among the first candidates.
However, more people have recently begun considering Korean ICL clinics as options for comparison.
The reason is simple: differences have become apparent in three areas—cost, lens options, and aftercare.
Why Korean ICL Often Costs Less Than in Japan
First is the cost.
In general, Korean ICL is often said to cost less than at clinics in Japan.
This appears to be related to the competitive environment in Korea’s beauty and ophthalmology sectors, as well as more efficient operations resulting from the accumulation of case experience.
However, it is not as simple as “cheaper is better.”
You need to evaluate the total cost, including the examinations, the surgeon’s experience, the lenses used, and the postoperative support system.
✅ What to Check When Comparing Costs
In addition to the advertised price, check whether the preoperative examination, lens cost, postoperative consultations, and medications are included. This will give you a clearer idea of the actual cost.
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The Surprisingly Significant Difference in Lens Options
Another factor that is often overlooked is the type of lens.
Korean clinics tend to offer a wide variety of lenses, providing more options to choose from based on the condition of your eyes and your lifestyle.
ICL lenses are intended to remain in place for a long time once inserted.
There are many factors to consider, including prescription strength, the presence or absence of astigmatism, whether the lens fits the size of your eye, and its effects on nighttime vision.
Having more options also means a greater chance of finding a lens that suits your eyes.
However, which lens is right for you depends on your examination results and your doctor’s judgment.
How to Plan Postoperative Care and Your Return Schedule
The biggest concern with traveling abroad for surgery is postoperative follow-up visits.
After ICL surgery, regular follow-up examinations are required the next day, one week later, one month later, and three months later.
Traveling to Korea every time is not practical.
What is important here is that many Korean ICL clinics have partnerships with partner clinics in Japan.
Since there is a system that allows you to receive examinations at a partner clinic after returning home, postoperative concerns can be addressed to some extent.
It is common to schedule the examination and surgery together, but depending on the condition of your eyes, they may take place on separate days. For peace of mind, book your flights with plenty of flexibility in your schedule.
When planning travel after surgery, following the instructions of the clinic performing the surgery is the top priority. In general, travel is often scheduled from the day after surgery onward, but be sure to confirm this with your doctor in advance.
✅ What to Confirm During Your Initial Consultation
① Which clinics in Japan they are partnered with ② Whether examination fees at partner clinics are charged separately ③ The contact system in case of problems ④ The type and reason for the planned lenses. These are four points you should be sure to confirm before traveling.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I receive follow-up care in Japan after undergoing ICL in Korea?
A: Many Korean ICL clinics have partnerships with clinics in Japan. However, partner clinics, fees, and the scope of services vary by clinic, so you must confirm these details before traveling.
Q: Is Korean ICL really cheaper than in Japan?
A: It is generally said to cost less in many cases, but it is important to compare the total cost, including the preoperative examination, medications, and postoperative consultations.
Q: Is it better to undergo ICL in Korea or Japan?
A: A common way to decide is Korea if cost is the priority, and Japan if convenience of follow-up visits is the priority. Ultimately, however, we recommend deciding based on your examination results, your doctor’s judgment, and whether the option suits your lifestyle.
✨ Summary
☑ Korean ICL often costs less than in Japan
☑ A wide variety of lenses makes it easier to find an option suited to your eyes
☑ Partnerships with clinics in Japan make postoperative examinations possible after returning home
☑ Be sure to confirm the total cost, partner clinics, and lens types before traveling
☑ Ultimately, decide based on your doctor’s judgment and the condition of your eyes
Once you find a clinic you are interested in, start by checking the condition of your eyes through a free consultation.
About the Author
The YEPPURIKO Editorial Team shares the latest information on Korean beauty and medical tourism to Korea based on on-site coverage and firsthand experiences. Please read the medical information in this article on the understanding that you should always consult an ophthalmology specialist when making an actual decision.
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