Treatment Overview
Hyaloid Removal Surgery, also known as Posterior Hyaloid or Vitreous Cortex Removal, is a microsurgical procedure aimed at removing the posterior vitreous membrane (hyaloid) that can cause vitreomacular traction (VMT), macular edema, or epiretinal membrane formation.
This procedure is typically performed using microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS) and is essential in restoring normal retinal anatomy, reducing traction on the macula, and improving visual function. Korea is internationally recognized for its advanced hyaloid removal programs, integrating:
- High-precision 25G/27G microincision vitrectomy
- Intraoperative Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) guidance
- Use of vital dyes for visualization of the posterior hyaloid
- Advanced microsurgical instruments for delicate vitreous and membrane removal
- Combined procedures with ERM peeling or cataract surgery when needed
- AI-assisted preoperative imaging for surgical planning and outcome optimization
These innovations ensure effective relief of macular traction and improved postoperative visual outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Remove posterior hyaloid causing vitreomacular traction
- Relieve traction-induced macular edema or distortion
- Prevent progression of macular holes or epiretinal membranes
- Restore normal retinal contour and macular architecture
- Complement cataract or ERM surgery if needed
- Optimize long-term retinal function and visual acuity
Benefits
- Microsurgical, minimally invasive procedure
- Direct visualization of posterior hyaloid and macular structures
- Significant improvement in visual quality and reduction of distortion
- OCT-guided surgery ensures precise removal and minimal trauma
- Rapid visual recovery in most patients
- Can be combined with other retinal or cataract procedures
- Low risk of recurrence when performed by experienced Korean surgeons
Ideal Candidates
Hyaloid Removal Surgery in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with symptomatic vitreomacular traction (VMT)
- Individuals with macular edema related to traction
- Patients with progressive macular distortion or vision loss
- Individuals at risk of macular hole formation
- Patients requiring simultaneous ERM or cataract surgery
- Diabetic patients with traction-related retinal changes
Possible Risks & Complications
Hyaloid removal is generally safe but carries potential risks:
Common/Moderate Risks:
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Temporary blurred vision
- Minor retinal hemorrhage
Rare/Serious Risks:
- Retinal tear or detachment
- Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection)
- Cystoid macular edema
- Recurrence of vitreomacular traction
- Severe vision loss in rare cases
Korean specialists minimize risks through:
- OCT-guided intraoperative visualization
- Microincision vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- Careful delineation of hyaloid using vital dyes
- Postoperative OCT monitoring and timely intervention
Related Treatment Techniques
- Vitrectomy Surgery – Core procedure for hyaloid removal
- ERM Peeling – Often combined to reduce traction recurrence
- ILM Peeling – Optional to prevent macular membrane formation
- OCT-Guided Surgery – Ensures precise hyaloid removal
- Cataract Surgery Combination – For phakic patients needing lens replacement
- Adjunctive Pharmacologic Therapy – Anti-inflammatory or anti-VEGF therapy if required
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- OCT imaging to evaluate macular traction and hyaloid adhesion
- Visual acuity and metamorphopsia assessment
- Fundus photography and fluorescein angiography if needed
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Selection of microincision gauge (25G/27G)
- Planning for ILM or ERM peeling if indicated
- Determining need for combined cataract surgery
Step 3 – Hyaloid Removal Surgery
- Local or general anesthesia applied
- Microincision vitrectomy performed to remove vitreous traction
- Posterior hyaloid visualized with vital dyes and carefully peeled
- Combined ILM or ERM peeling performed if necessary
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- OCT imaging to confirm hyaloid removal and macular contour restoration
- Visual acuity assessment and intraocular pressure monitoring
- Prescribed anti-inflammatory drops
Step 5 – Maintenance & Follow-Up
- Regular OCT and fundus examinations to monitor macular health
- Management of postoperative edema if it develops
- Additional intervention only if recurrence or complications occur
Program Duration: 60–120 minutes
Setting: Advanced retinal surgery center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid heavy lifting or eye rubbing for several weeks
- Use prescribed eye drops and maintain hygiene
- Monitor for flashes, floaters, or sudden vision changes
- Attend all scheduled postoperative visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision and eye discomfort
- 1–2 Weeks: Inflammation subsides, visual improvement begins
- 1–3 Months: OCT shows restored macular contour and improved vision
- Long-Term: Periodic monitoring ensures no recurrence
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Significant improvement in visual acuity
- Reduction of macular distortion and traction
- Restoration of normal macular contour
- Low recurrence rate with ILM/ERM peeling combination
- Enhanced quality of vision for daily activities
Longevity
- Permanent relief of traction at treated sites
- Lifelong OCT monitoring ensures early detection if recurrence occurs
- Combined surgical and medical management improves long-term outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- World-class retinal microsurgeons with extensive experience
- Advanced OCT-guided intraoperative imaging
- Microincision vitrectomy systems for minimal trauma
- Personalized surgical plans based on OCT and fundus mapping
- High success rates and low recurrence
- Efficient outpatient and inpatient retinal surgery facilities
Unique Korean Innovations
- Intraoperative OCT-assisted hyaloid and ILM peeling
- AI-assisted preoperative traction mapping
- Microincision 27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- Combination surgery protocols (hyaloid + ERM + cataract)
- Longitudinal imaging dashboards for postoperative evaluation
These innovations make Korea’s Hyaloid Removal Surgery Program one of the most advanced and effective retinal procedures worldwide.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Program Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Hyaloid Removal | ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,500,000 | ~$2,700 – $4,200 | Microincision vitrectomy + hyaloid removal + OCT follow-up |
| Hyaloid + ERM Peeling | ₩4,500,000 – ₩6,500,000 | ~$3,500 – $5,000 | Combined membrane peeling + OCT monitoring |
| Hyaloid + Cataract Surgery | ₩6,000,000 – ₩8,500,000 | ~$4,600 – $6,500 | Vitrectomy, hyaloid removal, lens replacement, follow-up |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
