The cost of LASIK eye surgery in Thailand typically ranges from $1,700 / ฿57,800 to $2,200 / ฿74,800. Prices can vary depending on the clinic, surgeon’s experience, technology used (like femtosecond or wavefront-guided LASIK), and whether one or both eyes are treated. In the U.S., the average cost is $2,800 / ฿95,200 (per AAO). That means LASIK in Thailand is about 29% less than in the U.S.
Thai clinics usually include the initial consultation, pre-op eye exam, post-op medication, follow-up visits, and 24/7 patient support. You also get personalized treatment plans and English-speaking staff. In the U.S., the listed price often covers only the procedure itself, with separate charges for exams, medications, and follow-ups. Always confirm what’s included with your chosen clinic.
| Thailand | Turkey | Austria | |
| LASIK eye surgery | from $1,710 / ฿58,140 | from $950 / ฿32,300 | from $1,800 / ฿61,200 |
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Fahad MawloodNo hidden fees – just official clinic prices. Pay at the clinic for LASIK eye surgery upon arrival and use a flexible installment plan if needed.
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Written by Anna Shchur
LASIK surgery is a laser vision correction procedure that reshapes the cornea to improve visual acuity.
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LASIK (Laser-In Situ Keratomileusis) is one of the most common types of laser eye surgery in Thailand. It corrects vision problems such as myopia (short-sightedness), hyperopia (long-sightedness), and astigmatism by reshaping the cornea with a laser.
✅The goal is to let light focus correctly on the retina for sharper vision without glasses or contact lenses.
LASIK has been used worldwide for over 20 years and has a strong safety record.
Studies show LASIK delivers stable, predictable results, with about 95% of patients achieving clear vision.
In Thailand, clinics follow the same international standards for LASIK eye surgery used in Europe and the United States.
The Medical Council of Thailand licenses doctors who perform LASIK in Thailand, and many hold memberships in the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology or the American Academy of Ophthalmology. These memberships ensure ongoing training and knowledge of the latest refractive techniques.
Before performing Laser-assisted vision correction, the doctor will carefully assess whether the procedure is safe and effective for the patient.
People are usually suitable if they:
Are between 18 and 45 years old and have a stable prescription for at least one year.
Have myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism within the treatable range.
Have healthy and sufficiently thick corneas.
Do not have severe eye conditions such as glaucoma, cataract, or severe dry eye.
Are not pregnant or breastfeeding.
Understand that LASIK reduces dependence on glasses but does not guarantee perfect vision for life.
LASIK may not be suitable for people who have:
Thin or irregular corneas.
Uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune diseases.
Chronic eye inflammation or dryness.
Professions or activities with a high risk of eye injury (for example, combat sports).
✅ Before surgery, Thai ophthalmologists perform a detailed preoperative assessment, which includes:
Corneal topography to map the shape of the cornea.
Pachymetry to measure corneal thickness.
Tear film testing to detect dryness.
Refraction and pupil analysis to check prescription stability and night vision potential.
Thailand is one of Asia’s most trusted destinations for laser eye surgery and LASIK, attracting around 3 million international patients each year seeking high-quality care, advanced technology, and reasonable prices.
💡Thailand’s ophthalmic sector is rapidly developing — the national ophthalmic supply market is projected to grow at a CAGR of about 7.7%, reaching USD 465.9 million by 2030. This steady growth supports wider access to advanced laser technology, such as excimer and femtosecond lasers, used in refractive laser procedures across Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.
High medical standards – The country has over 60 internationally accredited hospitals, including many certified by the Joint Commission International (JCI). This is the highest number in Asia and ensures strict safety, hygiene, and patient care standards.
Well-trained ophthalmologists—specialists in eye surgery in Thailand — are internationally educated. For example, Thai surgeons have completed fellowships in cornea and external disease at Washington University School of Medicine in the USA. They are members of professional organizations such as the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery and the Royal College of Ophthalmologists of Thailand.
English-speaking care – Medical staff in Bangkok and Phuket are fluent in English and experienced with foreign patients. Most hospitals have dedicated international departments.
Lower costs – The price of LASIK in Thailand is usually 40–60% lower than in Western countries. Clinics use the same advanced technology from Germany, Japan, and the United States, offering excellent results at a more affordable rate.
Comfortable recovery – Many patients combine laser eye surgery with a short vacation. Recovery in beach destinations or peaceful hotels can help reduce stress and support healing.
Packages are designed to simplify treatment for international patients. Most hospitals offer comprehensive bundles, but inclusions can vary by location and technology level.
| Most Likely Included | Should Be Confirmed |
| Pre-operative tests – corneal topography, pachymetry, refraction, tear-film check. | Advanced diagnostics, such as wavefront or OCT scans, may not be included. |
| LASIK / SMILE / PRK surgery using excimer or femtosecond laser for both eyes. | Whether the quoted price applies to both eyes or one eye. |
| Surgeon, anesthetic, and operating room fees. | Specific laser model or system brand used in the procedure. |
| Prescribed eye drops and protective eyewear. | Extra medications or artificial tears after discharge. |
| 1–2 post-operative check-ups. | Online or long-term follow-up after returning home. |
| Airport–hotel–clinic transfers. | Accommodation details – length of stay, meals, and upgrades. |
| English-speaking patient coordinators. | Other language interpreters (available via Bookimed (bookimed.com) if needed). |
| Basic insurance for surgical complications. | Whether travel or extended medical insurance is needed separately. |
💚 Through Bookimed partner clinics, patients can access all-inclusive LASIK packages with exclusive advantages.
Bookings via Bookimed include lower prices than those offered directly by hospitals, plus limited-time offers that make world-class eye surgery more affordable and accessible.
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Patients can choose between several leading destinations. Each offers different advantages in terms of environment, convenience, and cost.
Location Main Features Best For
Bangkok Capital and the medical center of Thailand. Equipped with advanced laser systems and English-speaking ophthalmologists. Strong international patient support. Those seeking top technology, experienced surgeons, and easy flight access.
Phuket Coastal city known for medical tourism. Laser eye surgery in Phuket offers a relaxed setting with comfortable recovery options near the beach. Patients are combining treatment with rest and short holidays.
Chiang Mai Smaller city with modern, affordable hospitals. Quiet atmosphere and slower pace. Budget-conscious patients or those preferring calm surroundings.
💡No matter which city is chosen, patients can expect consistent quality and internationally recognized safety, as Bookimed works only with verified clinics.
Patients considering laser eye surgery in Thailand want clear vision without glasses, but aren’t sure which method is best for them. Thailand offers several types of refractive surgery to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, using precise excimer and femtosecond lasers at top clinics.
| Procedure | Core technique | Typical recovery | Outcomes | Notes |
| LASIK / laser in situ keratomileusis | Create a thin corneal flap, reshape tissue with excimer laser. | Functional vision in 24–48h. | ~90% end up between 20/20 and 20/40 unaided; a 2016 analysis reported ~99.5% 20/40+. | Fast recovery; enhancement may be needed if the prescription regresses. |
| Femto-LASIK (bladeless) | Flap created with a femtosecond laser, then excimer reshape. | 24–48h. | Visual results comparable to LASIK; some studies report fewer early dry-eye symptoms vs blade flaps. | “Bladeless” flap creation can aid precision and centration. |
| SMILE / ReLEx SMILE | No flap; small incision removes a lenticule. | 48–72h. | Visual acuity comparable to femto-LASIK at 12 months; less dry eye in first 6 months. | Suitable for active patients; no corneal flap. |
| PRK | Surface treatment (no flap); epithelium removed, excimer laser reshape. | ~5–7 days to functional; weeks to full. | 99.5% of eyes with 20/40 vision or better at 12 months, ~7% retreatment rate, stable outcomes over 1 year. | Preferred if the cornea is thin or irregular; slower early recovery. |
❗A comprehensive eye examination (corneal topography/pachymetry, tear-film tests, refraction, pupil size) identifies the safest surgical procedure for each case of refractive surgery.
Before the surgery, patients undergo a comprehensive eye examination to confirm safety and select the right refractive surgery method.
💡These checks help detect hidden eye diseases and ensure the cornea can be safely reshaped with a laser.
| Test | Purpose |
| Corneal topography | Maps the cornea’s surface to detect irregularities or early corneal diseases. |
| Pachymetry | Measures corneal thickness to confirm it’s safe to create a corneal flap. |
| Refraction test | Confirms the stability of myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism before correction. |
| Tear-film test | Checks for dry eyes and determines if prescribed eye drops are needed. |
| Pupil and retina exam | Evaluates overall eye health and rules out conditions such as glaucoma. |
| Health and medication review | Identifies factors (such as isotretinoin acne medications) that may affect healing. |
❗Before testing, patients are advised to avoid contact lenses for several days to ensure accurate measurements.
The entire procedure usually takes about 15 minutes per eye. Vision often improves immediately and continues to clear during the next few days.
Preparation – The ophthalmologist applies anesthetic drops. The patient remains awake but comfortable.
Creating the corneal flap – A thin corneal flap is made using either a microkeratome or a femtosecond laser, depending on the technology chosen.
Reshaping the cornea – An excimer laser gently reshapes the corneal tissue to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
Flap replacement – The flap is carefully repositioned; it naturally seals without stitches.
✅ The entire laser eye surgery process is computer-guided for precision and usually painless. Vision often improves within hours, but stabilization continues for several days.
Most patients notice improved vision within the first day, though minor fluctuations are normal.
| Timeframe | What Happens |
| Immediately after surgery | Mild burning or tearing may occur; protective shields are used overnight. Severe pain is uncommon. |
| First 24 hours | Vision becomes clearer but may still blur at times. Patients use prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and dryness. |
| 1–3 days | Return to work and everyday tasks are usually possible, but patients should avoid strenuous activities, eye makeup, and swimming. |
| 1 week | First post-operative check-up confirms corneal healing. |
| 1 month | Vision typically stabilizes; most patients achieve clear sight without glasses or contact lenses. |
❗During healing, doctors recommend avoiding eye rubbing, dust, and bright sunlight. Artificial tears can reduce dry eyes. The doctor will provide personalized aftercare instructions based on each patient’s specific needs.
Thai laser vision improvement surgery in Thailand is generally very safe. For suitable candidates, the satisfaction rate exceeds 97.4%. Complications are rare, and most side effects are mild and temporary.
Still, patients should be aware of possible risks:
Dry eyes or mild irritation for one to two weeks.
Glare, halos, or light sensitivity, especially at night during recovery.
Slight under- or over-correction, occasionally requiring enhancement surgery.
Sporadic cases of infection or issues with the corneal flap.
Natural changes in vision or eye health over time, unrelated to the procedure.
💚 Clinics verified through Bookimed follow strict safety standards and provide transparent complication rates, giving patients peace of mind and access to follow-up support if needed.
Choosing the right clinic is simple if patients focus on verified quality and transparency.
Select hospitals accredited by JCI or licensed by the Ministry of Public Health — proof of global safety standards.
Reliable centers use excimer and femtosecond lasers for laser eye surgery and offer multiple refractive surgery types (LASIK, SMILE, PRK) to match different eye conditions.
Choose an ophthalmologist certified by the Medical Council of Thailand and, ideally, a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists of Thailand or the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Patients can find honest, verified reviews from people who have already had laser vision correction in Thailand on Bookimed.
The country’s medical tourism system is well-organized, hospitals are modern, and most clinics are experienced with international patients. A few local details can make the trip even smoother.
| Aspect | Thailand Guide |
| Best time to visit | November–February – cooler, dry season, ideal for recovery. Avoid the June–October monsoon months. |
| Visa info | Citizens of 93 countries (including the EU, UK, US, Australia, and Canada) can enter Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days, extendable once for an additional 30 days. For a longer recovery, clinics can help arrange a medical visa. |
| Language & support | Hospitals provide English-speaking staff. Through Bookimed, translation is available in many other languages, including Russian, Arabic, Chinese, and French. |
| Transport & logistics | Many clinics include airport–hotel–clinic transfers. In Bangkok, Grab taxis and the BTS Skytrain are convenient and safe. |
| Emergency care | For medical emergencies, call 1669 (national hotline) or 1155 for the Tourist Police in English. Major hospitals in Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai provide 24/7 care for international patients. |
| Follow-up options | Most centers offer online post-operative check-ups. Bookimed can coordinate these with your local ophthalmologist abroad. |
Hickenbotham A. L., Tanehsakdi M., Chansue E. Long Term Safety Results of LASIK Refractive Surgery: A Twenty-Year Retrospective Study. Journal of Surgery and Research. 2023. Vol. 06, no. 03. URL: https://doi.org/10.26502/jsr.10020314 (date of access: 05.11.2025).
Smith R. G., Manche E. E. One-Year Outcomes From a Prospective, Randomized, Eye-to-Eye Comparison of Wavefront-Guided and Wavefront-Optimized PRK in Myopia. Journal of Refractive Surgery. 2020. Vol. 36, no. 3. P. 160–168. URL: https://doi.org/10.3928/1081597x-20200129-01 (date of access: 05.11.2025).
Thailand Ophthalmic Supply Market Size & Outlook, 2030. Market Research Reports & Consulting | Grand View Research, Inc. URL: https://www.grandviewresearch.com/horizon/outlook/ophthalmic-supply-market/thailand (date of access: 05.11.2025).
Zhang G., Cao H., Qu C. Efficacy, Safety, Predictability, and Stability of LASIK for Presbyopia Correction: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Journal of Refractive Surgery. 2023. Vol. 39, no. 9. P. 627–638. URL: https://doi.org/10.3928/1081597x-20230802-02 (date of access: 05.11.2025).
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