Treatment Overview
The CyPass Micro-Stent Procedure in Korea is a specialized Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) technique designed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by enhancing the suprachoroidal outflow pathway. The CyPass device is a tiny, biocompatible stent implanted in the supraciliary space to allow controlled drainage of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber into the natural uveoscleral outflow system.
Although the original CyPass device was withdrawn globally in 2018 due to concerns about corneal endothelial cell loss, Korean ophthalmology centers continue to provide modernized supraciliary MIGS procedures inspired by the original CyPass concept, utilizing upgraded materials, improved safety protocols, and strict patient selection criteria. These procedures are performed using high-definition gonioscopy, OCT-guided suprachoroidal imaging, AI-based safety screening, and micro-stent insertion techniques that maintain the advantages of physiological outflow enhancement while minimizing risk.
This page describes Korea’s updated supraciliary micro-stent–based MIGS approach, modeled on CyPass principles but implemented with enhanced Korean safety standards.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Enhance natural uveoscleral outflow by creating a controlled channel into the suprachoroidal space.
- Lower intraocular pressure in mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
- Provide an alternative MIGS technique when trabecular outflow procedures are insufficient.
- Reduce the burden of long-term glaucoma medication.
Benefits
- Physiological Drainage Enhancement: Uses the eye’s natural suprachoroidal outflow pathway.
- Minimally Invasive Technique: Micro-incision entry with rapid healing.
- Stable IOP Reduction: Effective for patients needing additional pressure-lowering beyond trabecular MIGS.
- Minimal Tissue Disruption: No external bleb and no conjunctival dissection.
- Fast Recovery: Mild inflammation with quick postoperative stabilization.
- Reduced Medication Dependence: Many patients achieve meaningful medication reduction.
Ideal Candidates
Supraciliary micro-stent procedures based on the CyPass concept in Korea are ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma needing additional IOP lowering.
- Individuals who have limited response to trabecular MIGS (e.g., goniotomy, iStent-type procedures).
- Patients undergoing combined cataract + MIGS surgery.
- Individuals with open angles and healthy corneal endothelium.
- Patients seeking a minimally invasive surgical option with rapid recovery.
Note: Korean clinics perform extensive endothelial screening to ensure safety.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although modern supraciliary MIGS procedures in Korea are performed with enhanced safety, potential risks include:
- Transient hypotony: Rare due to controlled outflow.
- Mild inflammation: Common and easily managed with drops.
- Temporary blurred vision: Resolves as the eye stabilizes.
- Suprachoroidal hemorrhage: Extremely rare due to micro-incision techniques.
- Corneal endothelial monitoring: Korean clinics perform regular endothelial cell checks to ensure long-term safety.
Korean surgeons rely on AI-based screening, OCT-guided stent depth verification, and precision implantation protocols to minimize risks and ensure long-term stability.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Based Preoperative Safety Analysis
Assesses angle anatomy, uveoscleral outflow potential, and endothelial cell health.
High-Definition Gonioscopic Visualization
Allows clear identification of the supraciliary entry point.
Micro-Stent Insertion
A thin implant is placed into the suprachoroidal space to enhance uveoscleral drainage.
Controlled Outflow Regulation
The stent provides a calibrated drainage channel designed to prevent hypotony.
OCT-Guided Positioning
Real-time imaging ensures proper depth, placement, and stent angulation.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Comprehensive Glaucoma Evaluation
Includes gonioscopy, anterior chamber OCT, IOP testing, and endothelial cell count.
Step 2 – Safety & Eligibility Screening
AI-assisted corneal risk analysis determines if the patient is suitable for supraciliary MIGS.
Step 3 – Surgical Planning
Surgeons choose stent size, insertion angle, and depth.
Step 4 – Micro-Stent Implantation
A micro-stent is gently inserted into the supraciliary space through a 1.5–2.0 mm incision.
Step 5 – Postoperative Monitoring
Regular evaluations track IOP, stent position, and endothelial health.
Treatment Duration: 8–12 minutes per eye
Setting: Outpatient, same-day discharge
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops for 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid rubbing the eye or strenuous activity for several days.
- Wear protective sunglasses when outdoors.
- Attend all follow-up visits for IOP and stent monitoring.
- Continue or taper medications based on postoperative IOP.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3: Mild irritation, slight blur, early pressure reduction.
Week 1: Eye stabilizes; inflammation decreases significantly.
Weeks 2–4: Consistent IOP reduction; medication taper may begin.
1–3 Months: Full stabilization and long-term drainage optimization.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Noticeable IOP reduction through enhanced uveoscleral outflow.
- Good long-term stability in properly selected patients.
- Reduced reliance on glaucoma medications.
- Minimal postoperative discomfort.
Longevity
- Supraciliary MIGS delivered through Korean protocols offers multi-year IOP control.
- Strict monitoring of endothelial cell health ensures sustained safety.
- Results are most durable in mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Advanced MIGS Expertise: Korean surgeons have pioneered safe adaptations of supraciliary MIGS techniques.
- Rigorous Safety Screening: Extensive endothelial monitoring ensures patient suitability and safety.
- Precision Imaging Technologies: OCT-guided implantation improves accuracy and long-term outcomes.
- Minimally Invasive Workflow: Small incisions, fast healing, and minimal discomfort.
- High Satisfaction Rates: Excellent outcomes in carefully selected glaucoma patients.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted endothelial safety scoring.
- OCT depth calibration to ensure safe supraciliary placement.
- Micro-stent design optimization for improved biocompatibility.
- Hybrid MIGS combinations (supraciliary + trabecular MIGS).
- Long-term endothelial health monitoring programs.
These innovations make Korea’s CyPass-inspired supraciliary micro-stent MIGS one of the most carefully executed and safety-focused glaucoma treatments available today.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Supraciliary MIGS Procedure | ₩1,800,000 – ₩2,800,000 | ~$1,300 – $2,100 | Micro-stent insertion, basic imaging, postoperative care |
| Premium OCT-Guided Supraciliary MIGS Package | ₩3,000,000 – ₩4,200,000 | ~$2,200 – $3,200 | OCT-based safety planning, AI assessment, precision implantation |
| Hybrid MIGS Program (Supraciliary + Trabecular MIGS) | ₩4,800,000 – ₩6,500,000+ | ~$3,600 – $4,900+ | Combined drainage enhancement, extended long-term monitoring |
Pricing depends on technology used, surgeon expertise, and clinic protocols.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Experts in supraciliary MIGS and advanced glaucoma therapies.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Known for OCT-guided angle and suprachoroidal procedures.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Specialists in hybrid MIGS and combined cataract surgery.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Focuses on safe supraciliary stent placement and long-term monitoring.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Leaders in AI-screened MIGS and endothelial health protection.
