Treatment Overview
Macula-On Retinal Detachment Repair is a specialized vitreoretinal surgery performed when the retina detaches without involving the central macula, which is critical for central vision. Prompt repair is essential to preserve high-acuity vision and prevent progression to macula-off detachment.
In Korea, this procedure is performed using advanced surgical technology and expert retinal surgeons:
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) with microincision (25–27G) for minimally invasive internal repair
- Scleral buckle placement when necessary for additional external support
- Endolaser photocoagulation, cryopexy, or diathermy to seal retinal tears
- Intraoperative OCT (iOCT) for real-time retinal positioning and macula monitoring
- Fluid–air or fluid–gas exchange to flatten the retina
- Silicone oil or gas tamponade for internal stabilization
- AI-assisted surgical planning to optimize tear closure and retinal reattachment
This surgery focuses on protecting macular function while ensuring complete retinal reattachment, maximizing visual outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reattach the retina while preserving central macular vision
- Seal retinal tears and prevent further detachment
- Provide internal (vitrectomy) and/or external (buckle) support as needed
- Prevent progression to macula-off detachment
- Restore retinal anatomy and optimize functional recovery
Benefits
- Minimally invasive with microincision vitrectomy
- Rapid intervention preserves high-acuity vision
- Real-time iOCT monitoring ensures accurate macular positioning
- Can combine vitrectomy, laser, cryopexy, and scleral buckle for tailored repair
- Reduces risk of permanent central vision loss
- AI-assisted planning improves surgical precision and outcomes
- Efficient outpatient care with structured follow-up
Ideal Candidates
Macula-On Retinal Detachment Repair in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with acute retinal detachment sparing the macula
- Individuals with single or multiple retinal tears
- High myopia patients at risk of central vision loss
- Trauma-related retinal detachments with intact macula
- Patients requiring pars plana vitrectomy and/or scleral buckle
- Eyes at risk for rapid progression to macula-off detachment
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, potential risks include:
Minor/Transient Issues
- Mild blurred or distorted vision postoperatively
- Temporary eye discomfort or floaters
- Slight redness or irritation
Rare/Serious Risks
- Recurrent retinal detachment
- Retinal or choroidal hemorrhage
- Cataract progression (phakic eyes)
- Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP)
- Endophthalmitis (very rare)
- Tamponade-related complications (gas migration, silicone oil issues)
- Scleral buckle-related complications (extrusion, infection)
Korean clinics minimize risks through:
- Microincision vitrectomy to reduce retinal trauma
- Intraoperative OCT for precise macular and retinal monitoring
- Experienced retinal surgeons specializing in macula-on detachments
- AI-assisted preoperative planning for tear closure and tamponade selection
- Structured postoperative monitoring and follow-up
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Microincision internal repair
- Scleral Buckle – External support for retinal reattachment
- Endolaser Photocoagulation – Seals retinal tears
- Cryopexy or Diathermy – Adjunctive tear repair
- Fluid–Air or Fluid–Gas Exchange – Assists retinal flattening
- Silicone Oil or Gas Tamponade – Provides internal stabilization
- Intraoperative OCT (iOCT) – Real-time macula monitoring
- AI-Assisted Surgical Planning – Optimizes tear closure and tamponade choice
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive eye exam including visual acuity, IOP, and fundus evaluation
- OCT and widefield imaging to confirm macula-on status and tear location
- AI-assisted planning for surgical approach, tamponade, and laser/cryotherapy use
Step 2 – Surgical Procedure
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision pars plana vitrectomy (25–27G) performed
- Removal of vitreous traction and any hemorrhage
- Retinal tears sealed using endolaser, cryopexy, or diathermy
- Scleral buckle applied if additional external support is needed
- Fluid–air or fluid–gas exchange performed
- Silicone oil or gas tamponade applied for internal stabilization
Step 3 – Postoperative Follow-Up
- Immediate postoperative examination within 24 hours
- Follow-ups at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months
- OCT and fundus imaging to confirm retinal reattachment and macular integrity
Duration: 90–150 minutes
Setting: Advanced retinal surgery operating room
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Maintain head positioning as instructed (face-down or specific angle)
- Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops
- Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous activity
- Protect the eye from trauma
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments
- Monitor for flashes, floaters, or sudden vision changes
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurring and distorted vision due to tamponade or surgical manipulation
- 1–2 Weeks: Retina stabilizes; initial visual improvement
- 1–3 Months: Vision continues to recover as retina heals
- 3–6 Months: Long-term retinal stability and optimal macular function confirmed
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Complete reattachment of retina while preserving macular function
- Reduced risk of progression to macula-off detachment
- Optimized visual acuity recovery
- Can combine vitrectomy, buckle, and laser/cryotherapy for best outcomes
- High anatomical and functional success rates
Longevity
- Lifelong retinal monitoring recommended
- Long-term stability achieved in most cases
- Rarely requires repeat surgery if repair is successful
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Advanced microincision vitrectomy and scleral buckle expertise
- Intraoperative OCT for real-time macula monitoring
- AI-assisted surgical planning for tear closure and tamponade selection
- Experienced retinal surgeons specialized in macula-on detachments
- Integration with laser, cryotherapy, and fluid/gas exchange for optimal outcomes
- Efficient outpatient and follow-up care
- English-friendly clinics for international patients
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-guided surgical planning for macula-on detachments
- Intraoperative OCT for precise retinal and macular monitoring
- Microincision vitrectomy for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- Hybrid approaches combining vitrectomy, buckle, and laser/cryotherapy
- Digital surgical dashboards for postoperative monitoring and tracking
- Optimized patient positioning protocols for retinal adhesion
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Macula-On RD Repair (PPV) | ₩9,000,000 – ₩14,000,000 | ~$6,900 – $10,750 | Microincision PPV + laser/cryotherapy + tamponade |
| Macula-On RD Repair + Scleral Buckle | ₩10,000,000 – ₩15,000,000 | ~$7,650 – $11,450 | PPV + buckle + laser/cryotherapy + tamponade |
| Postoperative Monitoring Package | ₩300,000 – ₩800,000 | ~$230 – $620 | OCT + fundus + AI-assisted follow-up |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Retina Unit
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
