Treatment Overview
Full-Thickness Macular Hole Surgery in Korea is a microsurgical procedure designed to repair a complete defect in the central retina (macula), which can cause significant central vision loss and distortion. The surgery involves pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) to remove the vitreous gel, followed by internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling around the macular hole, and intraocular gas tamponade to facilitate hole closure and retinal healing.
Korea is internationally recognized for advanced macular hole surgery programs that integrate:
- Microincision vitrectomy surgery (25G/27G) for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for precise hole measurement and closure monitoring
- Use of dyes (e.g., brilliant blue G) to enhance ILM visualization
- AI-assisted surgical planning for optimal peeling strategy
- Combination procedures with cataract surgery if necessary
- Rapid outpatient or short-stay surgical protocols
This approach ensures effective macular hole closure, restoration of central vision, and improved anatomical outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Close full-thickness macular holes and restore retinal continuity
- Improve central visual acuity and reduce metamorphopsia
- Stabilize the macula and prevent progression of retinal defects
- Complement other macular procedures such as ILM peeling or membrane removal
Benefits
- Minimally invasive, high-precision microsurgical technique
- Intraoperative OCT ensures accurate ILM peeling and macular hole assessment
- Gas tamponade facilitates natural retinal healing and closure
- Short recovery period with improved central vision
- Can be combined with cataract surgery for optimal visual rehabilitation
Ideal Candidates
FTMH Surgery in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with confirmed full-thickness macular holes
- Individuals experiencing central vision loss or distortion
- Eyes with progressive visual deterioration due to macular holes
- Patients suitable for gas tamponade and postoperative positioning
- Individuals with coexisting cataract requiring combined surgery
Possible Risks & Complications
Common/Moderate Risks
- Temporary blurred vision post-surgery
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Minor retinal edema
Rare/Serious Risks
- Retinal tear or detachment
- Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection)
- Cataract progression in phakic patients
- Persistent macular edema or incomplete hole closure
- Vision loss in severe cases
Korean specialists minimize risks through:
- Microincision vitrectomy (25G/27G) for minimal trauma
- OCT-guided ILM peeling for precise membrane removal
- Careful postoperative positioning and monitoring
- Biocompatible dyes to enhance surgical accuracy
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Core surgical technique
- Internal Limiting Membrane (ILM) Peeling – Facilitates hole closure
- Intraoperative OCT – Real-time macular visualization
- Gas Tamponade – Provides internal retinal support
- Cataract Surgery – Can be combined if needed
- Anti-VEGF or Laser Therapy – Adjunctive treatment in selected cases
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive ophthalmologic exam including OCT, fundus photography, and visual acuity testing
- Measurement and mapping of macular hole size
- Planning for vitrectomy, ILM peeling, and gas tamponade
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Decide vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Determine need for ILM peeling or combined cataract surgery
- Plan intraoperative dye usage and OCT monitoring
Step 3 – Full-Thickness Macular Hole Surgery
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision vitrectomy to remove vitreous traction
- Staining and careful peeling of ILM around the macular hole
- Intraocular gas bubble tamponade for hole closure
- Postoperative face-down positioning as prescribed
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- OCT imaging to confirm macular hole closure
- Visual acuity and intraocular pressure monitoring
- Prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops
Step 5 – Follow-Up & Maintenance
- Regular OCT and fundus exams
- Additional interventions only if complications or incomplete closure occur
Duration: 60–120 minutes depending on complexity
Setting: Advanced vitreoretinal surgery center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Maintain prescribed face-down positioning for tamponade effect
- Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
- Follow all medication instructions strictly
- Attend scheduled postoperative visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision due to gas bubble
- 1–2 Weeks: Inflammation subsides; initial visual improvement
- 4–6 Weeks: Gas bubble absorbed; OCT confirms macular hole closure
- Long-Term: Periodic monitoring ensures stable macular anatomy and central vision
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- High rate of full-thickness macular hole closure
- Restoration of central visual acuity
- Improved quality of vision with reduced metamorphopsia
- Prevention of further macular damage
Longevity
- Permanent closure of treated macular hole
- Lifelong OCT monitoring recommended for high-risk or large-hole patients
- Combined surgical and medical management ensures durable outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced vitreoretinal surgeons specializing in macular surgery
- Microincision 25G/27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- Intraoperative OCT and dye-assisted ILM peeling
- AI-assisted surgical planning for precise macular repair
- High success rates with rapid outpatient or short-stay protocols
Unique Korean Innovations
- OCT-assisted ILM peeling and macular hole repair
- Microforceps-assisted precision peeling
- Personalized postoperative positioning protocols
- Integration with cataract or adjunctive therapies for optimal outcomes
- Advanced postoperative monitoring for rapid visual rehabilitation
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard FTMH Surgery | ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,500,000 | ~$4,600 – $7,300 | 25G/27G vitrectomy + ILM peeling + gas tamponade + OCT follow-up |
| FTMH + Combined Cataract Surgery | ₩8,500,000 – ₩12,500,000 | ~$6,600 – $9,600 | Vitrectomy + ILM peeling + gas tamponade + cataract surgery + 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)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
