Treatment Overview
Laser-Assisted Vitrectomy Surgery in Korea is an advanced microsurgical procedure that combines pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with precise laser photocoagulation to treat retinal tears, retinal detachments, macular holes, and other complex vitreoretinal disorders. During the procedure, the vitreous gel is removed, and laser energy is applied intraoperatively to seal retinal breaks, reduce neovascularization, and stabilize the retina.
Korea is internationally recognized for its laser-assisted vitrectomy programs that integrate:
- Microincision vitrectomy surgery (25G/27G) for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- Intraoperative laser photocoagulation for immediate retinal repair
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for real-time retinal visualization
- AI-assisted surgical planning for optimal laser targeting
- Combination procedures with membrane peeling, gas or silicone oil tamponade, and anti-VEGF therapy if needed
- Rapid outpatient or short-stay surgical protocols
This approach ensures precise retinal stabilization, reduces intraoperative and postoperative complications, and enhances visual outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Repair retinal tears and detachments
- Stabilize the retina during vitrectomy procedures
- Reduce intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage
- Seal areas of neovascularization
- Complement other retinal procedures such as ILM or membrane peeling
Benefits
- Minimally invasive, high-precision microsurgical technique
- Immediate retinal sealing with intraoperative laser
- Reduced risk of recurrent detachment or bleeding
- Intraoperative OCT ensures accurate laser placement
- Shorter recovery period for patients
- Can be combined with cataract surgery or anti-VEGF therapy
Ideal Candidates
Laser-Assisted Vitrectomy Surgery in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with retinal tears or rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
- Eyes with macular holes requiring intraoperative laser stabilization
- Individuals with proliferative diabetic retinopathy or neovascular complications
- Patients undergoing vitreoretinal membrane peeling
- Individuals requiring combined retinal and cataract surgery
Possible Risks & Complications
Common/Moderate Risks
- Temporary blurred vision
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Minor retinal edema or hemorrhage
Rare/Serious Risks
- Retinal tear or recurrent detachment
- Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection)
- Cataract progression in phakic patients
- Persistent macular edema
- Vision loss in severe cases
Korean specialists minimize risks through:
- Microincision vitrectomy (25G/27G) for minimal trauma
- OCT-guided laser application for precise retinal repair
- Careful intraoperative and postoperative monitoring
- Pre- and intraoperative anti-VEGF therapy in selected cases
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Core surgical technique
- Intraoperative Laser Photocoagulation – Seals retinal breaks and neovascular tissue
- Internal Limiting Membrane (ILM) or Epiretinal Membrane Peeling – Reduces traction
- OCT-Guided Monitoring – Ensures precise retinal alignment
- Adjunctive Gas or Silicone Oil Tamponade – Provides internal retinal support
- Anti-VEGF Therapy – Reduces neovascularization
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive ophthalmologic exam including OCT, fundus photography, and visual acuity testing
- Identification of retinal tears, detachments, or neovascular areas
- Planning for vitrectomy, laser application, and adjunctive procedures
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Decide vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Determine need for ILM or membrane peeling
- Plan intraoperative laser strategy and any adjunctive procedures
Step 3 – Laser-Assisted Vitrectomy Surgery
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision vitrectomy to remove vitreous traction and hemorrhage
- Apply intraoperative laser to seal retinal breaks or treat neovascular areas
- Combine with gas or silicone oil tamponade if needed
- Perform membrane peeling or ILM peeling if required
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- OCT imaging to confirm retinal stabilization
- 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 recurrence occur
Duration: 90–180 minutes depending on complexity
Setting: Advanced vitreoretinal surgery center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
- Follow prescribed medications strictly
- Maintain head positioning if tamponade used
- Attend scheduled postoperative visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision
- 1–2 Weeks: Inflammation subsides; partial visual improvement
- 1–4 Weeks: OCT confirms retinal alignment and laser efficacy
- Long-Term: Periodic monitoring ensures retinal stability
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Immediate sealing of retinal breaks and neovascular areas
- Stabilization of the retina and prevention of recurrent detachment
- Improved visual acuity and anatomical outcomes
- Reduced risk of postoperative hemorrhage
Longevity
- Permanent retinal stabilization at treated sites
- Lifelong OCT monitoring recommended for high-risk patients
- Combined surgical and medical management ensures durable outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced vitreoretinal surgeons with expertise in laser-assisted techniques
- Microincision 25G/27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- Intraoperative OCT and laser guidance for precision
- AI-assisted surgical planning for complex retinal cases
- Access to combination procedures with cataract surgery or membrane peeling
- High success rates with rapid outpatient or short-stay protocols
Unique Korean Innovations
- OCT-assisted laser photocoagulation during vitrectomy
- AI-assisted surgical mapping for precise laser delivery
- Microincision 27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- Integration with anti-VEGF therapy or tamponade for complex cases
- Personalized postoperative monitoring and rehabilitation protocols
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Laser-Assisted Vitrectomy | ₩5,000,000 – ₩8,500,000 | ~$3,900 – $6,600 | 25G/27G vitrectomy + intraoperative laser + OCT follow-up |
| Laser + Membrane/ILM Peeling | ₩6,500,000 – ₩10,000,000 | ~$5,000 – $7,700 | Vitrectomy + membrane peeling + laser + OCT monitoring |
| Combined Procedure (Laser + Cataract) | ₩8,500,000 – ₩12,500,000 | ~$6,600 – $9,600 | Vitrectomy + laser + 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
