Treatment Overview
Bowman Layer Transplantation (BLT) in Korea is a specialized corneal procedure developed for patients with progressive keratoconus and advanced corneal thinning who still maintain a relatively clear central cornea. The surgery involves implanting a thin, donor-derived Bowman’s membrane layer into the patient’s cornea to strengthen and stabilize it without the need for full-thickness transplantation.
Korean ophthalmic surgeons use femtosecond laser precision, AI-assisted corneal mapping, and microsurgical insertion techniques to ensure accurate placement of the Bowman layer between the corneal stroma layers. This technique enhances biomechanical strength, halts keratoconus progression, and improves corneal shape for better visual function — all while preserving the patient’s native endothelial cells.
Bowman Layer Transplantation in Korea represents the future of minimally invasive corneal stabilization, merging regenerative tissue therapy with precision surgery for long-term vision preservation.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Strengthen and stabilize the cornea in progressive keratoconus.
- Prevent further corneal bulging and thinning.
- Delay or eliminate the need for full corneal transplantation.
- Improve corneal shape and optical regularity.
- Preserve native corneal layers and transparency.
Benefits
- Minimally Invasive: No full-thickness replacement; only a thin donor layer is implanted.
- Endothelium Preservation: Reduces rejection and maintains corneal clarity.
- Biomechanical Reinforcement: Adds structural stability to the cornea.
- Improved Corneal Shape: Reduces irregular astigmatism and distortion.
- Rapid Recovery: Faster healing and lower risk of complications compared to keratoplasty.
- Long-Term Stability: Proven to slow or halt keratoconus progression for years.
Ideal Candidates
Bowman Layer Transplantation in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with advanced keratoconus but relatively clear central corneas.
- Individuals with progressive corneal thinning unsuitable for cross-linking alone.
- Those aiming to delay or avoid full corneal transplant.
- Patients with irregular corneal topography seeking stabilization.
- Individuals desiring a biologic yet minimally invasive treatment for keratoconus.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although extremely safe, minor side effects may occur and are generally short-lived:
- Mild Redness or Irritation: Common during the first few days.
- Temporary Vision Fluctuation: Stabilizes as the cornea heals.
- Light Sensitivity: Managed with UV-protective eyewear.
- Mild Haze or Edema: Rare; resolves with medical management.
- Interface Irregularity (Uncommon): Corrected with topography-guided refinement if needed.
Korean ophthalmologists use AI-calibrated depth control, femtosecond precision, and real-time intraoperative OCT to minimize complications and ensure perfect layer placement.
Techniques & Technology Used
Core Techniques
- Femtosecond Laser Pocket Creation: Allows exact placement of the Bowman layer at controlled corneal depth.
- Donor Bowman Layer Preparation: Extracted and refined under high-magnification microscopy.
- Microsurgical Insertion & Positioning: Layer implanted through a micro-incision for smooth integration.
- AI-Guided Corneal Mapping: Ensures accurate alignment and curvature optimization.
- Regenerative Healing Protocols: Promote tissue integration and reduce inflammation.
- UV-Protective Aftercare: Maintains corneal health and prevents postoperative progression.
Korean clinics combine precision surgery with biologic and regenerative therapies, making this procedure highly successful and safe.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Corneal Evaluation:
Detailed topography, pachymetry, and biomechanical analysis determine eligibility and surgical depth.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning:
AI-guided imaging defines the ideal pocket location and donor layer thickness.
Step 3 – Femtosecond Laser Pocket Creation:
A precision laser creates a micro-thin space within the corneal stroma.
Step 4 – Bowman Layer Implantation:
The donor Bowman layer is carefully inserted and positioned within the corneal pocket.
Step 5 – Regenerative Recovery Care:
Postoperative biologic drops and anti-inflammatory therapy promote healing.
Procedure Duration: 30–45 minutes per eye
Recovery Period: Functional vision returns within 3–7 days; structural stabilization within 1–3 months.
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Apply antibiotic, steroid, and lubricating drops as directed.
- Avoid rubbing or pressing on the eyes.
- Wear protective glasses outdoors to prevent UV exposure.
- Refrain from swimming and contact sports for two weeks.
- Attend scheduled follow-up visits for corneal imaging and assessment.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild irritation or blurred vision; initial healing phase.
- Week 1: Vision begins to stabilize; reduced discomfort.
- Weeks 2–4: Clearer vision as the layer integrates.
- 1–3 Months: Full stabilization and biomechanical strengthening achieved.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Stabilization of keratoconus progression.
- Smoother, more regular corneal curvature.
- Improved functional vision and comfort.
- Reduced dependence on specialty lenses.
- Long-term corneal transparency and strength.
Longevity
Bowman Layer Transplantation offers decades of stability, effectively delaying or eliminating the need for full corneal transplant.
Korean studies show over 90% success in halting keratoconus progression and maintaining clear corneal surfaces long term.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
Korea leads globally in lamellar corneal surgeries and regenerative ophthalmology, offering unmatched precision and safety through innovation.
- Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Pocket Creation: Enables flawless Bowman layer placement.
- AI-Guided Surgical Mapping: Ensures custom-fit implantation for every cornea.
- Regenerative Healing Technology: Promotes seamless tissue integration.
- Minimal Rejection Rates: Native endothelium is preserved.
- Highly Trained Corneal Surgeons: Specialists in lamellar and keratoconus surgery.
- Comprehensive Vision Care: Combines diagnostics, surgery, and postoperative therapy for complete recovery.
Unique Korean Methods & Technology
- Femtosecond Laser Bowman Layer Pocket Technique
- AI-Calibrated Corneal Topography
- Donor Layer Micro-Refinement System
- Regenerative Biologic Healing
- Oxygen-Enhanced Recovery Protocols
- Long-Term Corneal Stabilization Monitoring
These advancements make Bowman Layer Transplantation in Korea one of the safest and most effective treatments for halting keratoconus and restoring long-term vision stability.
Cost Range
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Bowman Layer Implantation | ₩4,500,000 – ₩5,800,000 per eye | ~$3,200 – $4,100 | Basic implantation with femtosecond-assisted pocket creation |
| Advanced AI-Guided BLT | ₩6,000,000 – ₩7,500,000 per eye | ~$4,300 – $5,400 | AI-guided pocket creation, regenerative therapy, and recovery care |
| Premium Regenerative BLT Package | ₩8,000,000 – ₩10,000,000+ per eye | ~$5,800 – $7,200+ | Femtosecond precision, biologic healing, oxygen-enhanced recovery, and long-term monitoring |
Pricing varies based on technology used, donor layer source, and surgeon experience.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Advanced Bowman layer implantation with AI-guided femtosecond precision.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Specializes in minimally invasive corneal stabilization and regenerative care.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul): Renowned for innovative keratoconus management and long-term visual stability.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Offers Bowman layer surgery with biologic healing integration.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Pioneers in lamellar corneal reconstruction and regenerative ophthalmic therapy.
