Treatment Overview
Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) in Korea is a laser procedure that lowers intraocular pressure (IOP) by improving aqueous humor outflow through the trabecular meshwork. Using a focused argon laser beam, microscopic thermal spots are applied to the drainage tissues, causing biological remodeling that enhances fluid drainage and reduces IOP.
Korean ophthalmology centers are recognized for their precision laser delivery, high-resolution gonio-imaging, and AI-guided trabecular targeting, making ALT a reliable and effective option for patients with open-angle glaucoma.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reduce intraocular pressure by increasing trabecular meshwork outflow.
- Provide an alternative to long-term glaucoma medications.
- Delay or prevent the need for more invasive glaucoma surgeries.
- Treat patients with primary open-angle glaucoma or pseudoexfoliative glaucoma.
Benefits
- Non-Invasive: No incisions or tissue removal.
- Quick Procedure: Typically completed in minutes.
- Medication Reduction: Many patients decrease or discontinue eye drops.
- Effective for Early to Moderate Glaucoma: Excellent first- or second-line therapy.
- Minimal Recovery Time: Patients resume normal activities quickly.
- Repeatable in Select Cases: Can be followed by SLT or MIGS if needed.
Ideal Candidates
ALT in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).
- Individuals with pseudoexfoliative or pigmentary glaucoma.
- Patients seeking alternatives to long-term medication.
- Individuals not adequately controlled with one or more eye drops.
- Those who previously responded well to laser procedures.
- Adults with early or moderate glaucoma progression.
Possible Risks & Complications
ALT is very safe, though potential risks include:
- Mild inflammation or redness
- Slight temporary IOP spike (controlled with medications)
- Light sensitivity for a few hours
- Transient blurred vision
- Rare peripheral anterior synechiae formation
Korean clinics minimize risks using precision gonioscopy, AI-assisted energy calibration, and post-laser IOP stabilization protocols.
Types of Argon Trabeculoplasty in Korea
Full 360° ALT
Laser applied to the entire drainage angle for maximum IOP reduction.
180° ALT
Laser applied to half of the angle; often used as a staged approach.
Segmented ALT
Targeted treatment of high-resistance areas identified with imaging.
ALT + Medication Combination Therapy
Used when patients require supplemental control.
Surgical Techniques
Precision Gonio-Targeting
Surgeon uses a goniolens to precisely visualize the trabecular meshwork.
AI-Calibrated Laser Settings
Ensures ideal energy and pulse duration for safe, effective treatment.
Spot-Based Thermal Activation
Laser energy induces micro-contraction to enhance outflow.
360° Angle Monitoring
High-definition imaging helps identify resistant segments.
Post-Laser IOP Management
Preventive drops control temporary pressure elevation.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Comprehensive Glaucoma Evaluation
Includes IOP testing, gonioscopy, OCT, visual field exams, and imaging of the drainage angle.
Step 2 – Treatment Planning
Surgeon decides whether 180°, 360°, or segmented ALT is appropriate.
Step 3 – ALT Procedure
Laser spots are applied evenly along the trabecular meshwork.
Step 4 – Immediate Care
Anti-inflammatory drops administered; IOP monitored within hours.
Step 5 – Follow-Up Monitoring
IOP checked over weeks to confirm response and stability.
Treatment Duration: 5–10 minutes
Setting: Outpatient laser suite
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use prescribed anti-inflammatory drops for 2–7 days.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes.
- Resume normal activities almost immediately.
- Monitor symptoms such as pain or vision change.
- Attend follow-up visits for IOP checks.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1: Mild irritation possible; IOP begins responding.
- Week 1: Noticeable improvement in pressure control.
- Weeks 2–4: Full ALT effect stabilizes.
- Months 1–6: Continued pressure reduction maintained.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- 20–30% reduction in IOP for many patients.
- Reduction or discontinuation of some glaucoma medications.
- Stable and predictable outcomes for early-stage disease.
- Can postpone or prevent the need for surgery.
Longevity
- Effects often last 1–5 years, depending on glaucoma severity.
- Follow-up ALT or SLT may be performed if pressure rises again.
- Korea’s optimized protocols enhance long-term stability.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly refined laser protocols with minimal side effects.
- Advanced imaging (OCT/UBM) ensures precise targeting.
- AI-based energy adjustment improves safety and consistency.
- Extensive experience treating diverse glaucoma types.
- Strong postoperative care for IOP stabilization.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-guided trabecular mapping for personalized laser targeting.
- High-resolution gonioscopic imaging.
- Hybrid ALT + SLT sequencing for prolonged effects.
- Predictive algorithms for long-term IOP behavior.
- Customized spot distribution patterns.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180° ALT | ₩350,000 – ₩700,000 | ~$260 – $520 | Partial-angle ALT + follow-up care |
| 360° ALT | ₩600,000 – ₩1,200,000 | ~$450 – $900 | Full-angle ALT + monitoring |
| ALT With Pre/Post IOP Control Program | ₩1,200,000 – ₩1,800,000 | ~$900 – $1,350 | Imaging, medication management, extended care |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Precision argon laser systems for glaucoma.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Specialists in ALT and SLT protocols.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Combined laser and MIGS glaucoma management.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – Experts in imaging-guided trabecular laser therapy.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-assisted laser energy delivery.
