Treatment Overview
Retinal Dialysis Repair is a specialized surgical procedure used to treat retinal dialysis, a type of retinal detachment where the retina separates from the ora serrata, typically due to trauma or congenital weakness. Untreated retinal dialysis can lead to progressive detachment and vision loss.
In Korea, this surgery is performed using advanced microsurgical techniques, precise imaging, and modern vitreoretinal technology:
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) with microincision (25–27G) for minimally invasive repair
- Scleral buckle placement to support peripheral retinal reattachment if necessary
- Cryotherapy or laser photocoagulation to seal the dialysis edges
- Fluid–air or gas tamponade (SF6 or C3F8) to stabilize the retina
- Widefield fundus imaging and intraoperative OCT for accurate localization and assessment
- AI-assisted surgical planning for optimal buckle positioning, tamponade selection, and procedural efficiency
This approach allows precise repair, high anatomical success, and preservation of visual function, even in complex traumatic or peripheral cases.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reattach the retina at the site of dialysis
- Prevent progression to full retinal detachment
- Reduce risk of vision loss in trauma-related or congenital retinal tears
- Complement vitrectomy or scleral buckle procedures for comprehensive repair
- Provide stable, long-term retinal adhesion
Benefits
- High anatomical success for retinal reattachment
- Minimally invasive microincision techniques reduce surgical trauma
- Combined approach with vitrectomy, buckle, laser, or cryotherapy for complex cases
- Widefield imaging and intraoperative OCT for precise surgical guidance
- AI-assisted planning optimizes buckle tension, tamponade, and fluid dynamics
- Rapid visual recovery and lower complication rates compared to traditional methods
Ideal Candidates
Retinal Dialysis Repair in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with retinal dialysis due to trauma
- Congenital retinal dialysis causing localized detachment
- Retinal dialysis associated with rhegmatogenous detachment
- Eyes with peripheral retinal tears requiring precise adhesion
- Patients at risk of progressive detachment and macular involvement
- Individuals suitable for microincision vitrectomy and adjunctive tamponade
Possible Risks & Complications
Minor/Transient Issues
- Mild eye discomfort or redness
- Temporary blurred vision
- Mild swelling at incision site if scleral buckle is used
Rare/Serious Risks
- Recurrent retinal detachment
- Cataract progression in phakic eyes
- Endophthalmitis (rare)
- Tamponade-related complications (gas migration or silicone oil issues)
- Scleral buckle-related complications (erosion, infection, motility disturbance)
- Vitreous hemorrhage
Korean clinics minimize risks through:
- Microincision vitrectomy for reduced retinal trauma
- Intraoperative OCT and widefield imaging for accurate repair
- AI-assisted preoperative planning for buckle placement and tamponade selection
- Experienced retinal surgeons specializing in trauma and peripheral detachment
- Structured postoperative follow-up for early complication detection
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- OCT and Widefield Fundus Imaging – Assess extent of dialysis and retinal detachment
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Removes vitreous traction and enables precise repair
- Scleral Buckle Surgery – Supports retinal reattachment at peripheral dialysis
- Cryotherapy / Laser Photocoagulation – Seals dialysis edges
- Fluid–Air or Gas Tamponade – Stabilizes retina during healing
- Intraoperative OCT & AI-Assisted Planning – Ensures accurate localization and adhesion
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive eye examination including visual acuity, IOP, and fundus evaluation
- Widefield imaging and OCT to locate dialysis and assess detachment
- AI-assisted surgical planning for tamponade choice and buckle placement
Step 2 – Surgical Procedure
- Local or general anesthesia applied
- Microincision PPV performed to remove vitreous traction
- Cryotherapy or laser applied to seal dialysis edges
- Scleral buckle placed if additional support is required
- Fluid–air or gas tamponade used to stabilize retina
- Intraoperative OCT confirms retinal positioning and adhesion
Step 3 – Postoperative Follow-Up
- Immediate postoperative check within 24 hours
- Follow-up imaging at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months
- Additional interventions if re-detachment or new dialysis occurs
Duration: 90–150 minutes
Setting: Advanced retinal surgery operating room
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Maintain prescribed head positioning if tamponade is used
- Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops
- Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or eye trauma
- Attend all scheduled follow-up imaging and examinations
- Report new flashes, floaters, or sudden vision changes
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision and eye discomfort
- 1–2 Weeks: Retina stabilizes; initial visual recovery
- 1–3 Months: Visual function continues improving
- 3–6 Months: Long-term retinal stability confirmed
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- High anatomical success in retinal reattachment at dialysis site
- Preservation of macular function and central vision
- Reduced risk of recurrent detachment
- Can be combined with vitrectomy or buckle for complex cases
- Rapid recovery and minimal postoperative complications
Longevity
- Lifelong retinal monitoring recommended
- Retinal stability maintained long-term in most patients
- Rare repeat surgery required for recurrent dialysis or detachment
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Experienced retinal surgeons specializing in trauma-related dialysis
- Advanced microincision vitrectomy with widefield and intraoperative OCT
- AI-assisted planning for precise buckle placement and tamponade selection
- Combination protocols with laser or cryotherapy for optimal adhesion
- Efficient outpatient and postoperative monitoring
- English-friendly clinics for international patients
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted preoperative and intraoperative planning
- Microincision 25–27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- Widefield imaging for peripheral retinal assessment
- Hybrid approaches combining PPV, buckle, and tamponade
- Digital monitoring dashboards for postoperative tracking
- Optimized head positioning and recovery protocols
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microincision PPV for Retinal Dialysis | ₩9,500,000 – ₩15,500,000 | ~$7,250 – $11,800 | PPV + cryotherapy/laser + tamponade |
| PPV + Scleral Buckle Combination | ₩11,000,000 – ₩17,000,000 | ~$8,400 – $12,950 | Combined repair + tamponade + imaging |
| 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
