Eye Surgery (LASIK & Cataract)

Eye Surgery Abroad: 14-Point Checklist

LASIK, SMILE and cataract surgery are short procedures with high success rates — but equipment, surgeon experience and follow-up rigour are what separate clinics.

Last updated 1 May 2026Reviewed by cliniccheck editorial teamHow we research

When to use this checklist

Use this 14-point list before booking LASIK, SMILE, PRK or cataract surgery abroad. Refractive surgery is volume-sensitive: surgeons with ≥1,000 cases per year and current laser platforms (Zeiss VisuMax, Wavelight EX500, Schwind Amaris) deliver excellent outcomes. The risk is in poor patient selection — thin corneas or keratoconus being accepted for LASIK when they should not be.

How to use it

Confirm the laser platform and surgeon volume before booking. Insist on full pre-op imaging (topography, pachymetry, dry-eye assessment) before any surgical decision. Antibiotic and steroid drops must be prescribed in writing with a clear taper schedule before you fly home.

Red flags — walk away if you see these

No corneal topography or pachymetry done.
Cataract surgery offered without IOL choice explained.
Surgery same day as consultation, no pre-op tests.
Marketing "20/20 guarantee" — refraction outcomes vary.

Before surgery

Confirm the laser platform: Zeiss VisuMax (SMILE), Wavelight EX500, Schwind Amaris are mainstream.
Older platforms still work but ask why.
Surgeon performs ≥1,000 cases per year.
Refractive surgery is volume-sensitive. Ask for the number.
Full pre-op assessment: topography, pachymetry, dry-eye work-up.
20-minute "screenings" are not adequate.
Realistic candidacy assessment.
Thin corneas, high myopia and keratoconus may rule out LASIK. A good clinic will turn patients away.

The procedure and after

Sterile theatre, single-use blades.
Femtosecond lasers reduce risk further — ask which is used.
Antibiotic and steroid drops prescribed in writing.
Aftercare drops are essential, not optional.
Follow-up at day 1, week 1, month 1, month 3.
Online review is acceptable for later visits.
No flying within 24 hours; no swimming for 2 weeks.
Your clinic should give you a written restriction list.