Treatment Overview
Conjunctival-Sparing Trabeculectomy in Korea is a modern refinement of traditional trabeculectomy that preserves as much conjunctival tissue as possible while still achieving significant intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction. By minimizing conjunctival disruption, this technique lowers the risk of scarring, preserves future surgical options, accelerates recovery, and reduces complications such as bleb leaks.
Korean glaucoma centers excel in conjunctival-sparing filtration techniques using micro-incisional dissection, OCT-guided tissue mapping, and AI-enhanced surgical planning to deliver long-term pressure control with maximum tissue preservation.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Lower intraocular pressure by creating a controlled filtration pathway.
- Preserve conjunctival tissue for potential future glaucoma surgeries.
- Reduce postoperative complications associated with excessive conjunctival manipulation.
- Provide a safer, tissue-sparing alternative to full conjunctival dissection.
Benefits
- Minimal Conjunctival Trauma: Less inflammation, faster healing.
- Lower Risk of Scarring: Better long-term bleb performance.
- Preserves Surgical Options: Future trabeculectomy, tube shunts, or MIGS remain viable.
- More Natural Bleb Formation: Smaller, more stable filtration blebs.
- Quicker Visual Recovery: Reduced postoperative swelling.
- Improved Patient Comfort: Less foreign-body sensation and irritation.
Ideal Candidates
Conjunctival-Sparing Trabeculectomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild, moderate, or severe glaucoma requiring long-lasting IOP reduction.
- Individuals with limited conjunctiva due to previous surgeries or scarring.
- Patients who may need future glaucoma procedures.
- Those preferring a safer modification of trabeculectomy with fewer complications.
- Patients with primary open-angle, pseudoexfoliative, pigmentary, or secondary glaucoma.
- Individuals intolerant to or uncontrolled by medications or laser therapy.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although safer than traditional trabeculectomy, conjunctival-sparing methods may still involve:
- Mild inflammation or redness
- Transient IOP fluctuation
- Shallow bleb formation
- Conjunctival micro-leaks (rare)
- Minor bleeding or irritation
- Scarring that may reduce long-term filtration
Korean surgeons minimize risks through precise micro-incisional techniques, anti-scarring modulation, and postoperative imaging-based monitoring.
Types of Conjunctival-Sparing Techniques in Korea
Micro-Incisional Trabeculectomy
Creates a small conjunctival pocket instead of a large flap.
Fornix-Sparing Trabeculectomy
Preserves the limbal area while creating a posterior filtration route.
Tunnel-Based Trabeculectomy
Uses a scleral tunnel to reduce conjunctival exposure.
Minimal-Dissection Trabeculectomy
Limits the surgical field to essential tissue only.
Hybrid Conjunctival-Sparing Trabeculectomy
Combines minimal conjunctival dissection with controlled scleral flap creation and anti-scarring therapy.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Assisted Surgical Planning
Determines ideal incision location and bleb projection based on tissue analysis.
Micro-Incisional Conjunctival Access
Small opening preserves majority of tissue and reduces postoperative scarring.
Partial-Thickness Scleral Flap Creation
Allows controlled filtration while minimizing exposure.
Trabecular Block Removal
Improves outflow by creating a precise drainage channel.
Optional Peripheral Iridectomy
Prevents iris blockage of filtration pathway.
Anti-Scarring Therapy (MMC / 5-FU)
Applied carefully to preserve conjunctiva and prevent fibrosis.
OCT-Guided Bleb Assessment
Ensures proper bleb structure while maintaining tissue integrity.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Comprehensive Evaluation
Includes IOP measurement, OCT, visual fields, and slit-lamp assessment.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
Surgeon determines conjunctival access point and anti-scarring protocol.
Step 3 – Conjunctival-Sparing Trabeculectomy
Performed under local anesthesia with micro-incision techniques.
Step 4 – Immediate Postoperative Care
Topical antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drops administered.
Step 5 – Follow-Up Monitoring
Regular checkups ensure bleb stability and optimal pressure control.
Treatment Duration: 25–40 minutes
Setting: Surgical center or hospital
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use prescribed eye drops for several weeks.
- Avoid heavy lifting, eye rubbing, and contaminating the eye.
- Keep water away from the eye during early healing.
- Attend all follow-up appointments for bleb and pressure monitoring.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild swelling or discomfort.
- Week 1: Early bleb formation and partial pressure stabilization.
- Weeks 2–4: Improved vision and better bleb function.
- Months 1–3: Long-term stability of filtration achieved.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- 30–50% reduction in intraocular pressure.
- Natural, stable, low-lying filtration bleb formation.
- Fewer bleb-related complications compared to standard trabeculectomy.
- Reduced dependency on medications.
- Preservation of conjunctiva for any future surgeries.
Longevity
- Results typically last 10–20 years or more depending on scarring response.
- Korean anti-scarring protocols greatly enhance long-term success.
- Technique allows easy revisability if needed.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Global leaders in tissue-preserving glaucoma surgery.
- Precision micro-incisional techniques minimize trauma and enhance healing.
- AI-based planning improves bleb outcomes and reduces complications.
- High-resolution imaging provides real-time assessment of filtration.
- Comprehensive glaucoma centers offering long-term monitoring and care.
Unique Korean Innovations
- Micro-incision conjunctival preservation techniques.
- Real-time OCT-guided bleb formation.
- Personalized MMC microdosing based on scarring risk.
- Hybrid conjunctival-sparing + MIGS strategies.
- AI-driven flow modeling for safer IOP reduction.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Procedure Type | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Conjunctival-Sparing Trabeculectomy | ₩3,000,000 – ₩5,000,000 | ~$2,300 – $3,750 | Minimally invasive trabeculectomy + care |
| Hybrid Sparing Technique With MMC | ₩4,000,000 – ₩6,500,000 | ~$3,000 – $4,900 | MMC dosing + OCT monitoring |
| Advanced Reconstructive-Sparing Technique | ₩5,500,000 – ₩8,000,000 | ~$4,150 – $6,000 | Complex tissue preservation + extended follow-up |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Leaders in conjunctival-sparing trabeculectomy.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Specialists in minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Known for deep scleral and conjunctival-preserving techniques.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – Experts in OCT-guided filtration surgery.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-based conjunctival-sparing planning.
