Treatment Overview
Macular Hole Closure Surgery in Korea is a microsurgical procedure designed to repair full-thickness or chronic macular holes that cause central vision loss. The procedure involves pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) to remove the vitreous gel, peeling of the internal limiting membrane (ILM) to relieve traction, and the insertion of a sterile gas bubble to facilitate closure of the macular hole. Advanced techniques, such as inverted ILM flap or autologous platelet-rich plasma, may be used in complex or large holes.
Korea is internationally recognized for advanced macular hole closure programs that integrate:
- Microincision vitrectomy surgery (25G/27G) for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for precise assessment and monitoring of hole closure
- ILM peeling techniques, including inverted flap or autologous platelet use for large holes
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized macular repair
- 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 or chronic macular holes
- Restore central visual acuity and reduce metamorphopsia
- Stabilize the macula and prevent further retinal damage
- Complement other macular procedures, such as ILM peeling or PRP-assisted closure
Benefits
- Minimally invasive, high-precision microsurgical technique
- Intraoperative OCT ensures accurate ILM peeling and hole closure
- Gas tamponade facilitates natural retinal healing
- Short recovery period with improved central vision
- Can be combined with cataract surgery for optimal visual rehabilitation
Ideal Candidates
Macular Hole Closure Surgery in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with full-thickness or chronic 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 or fluctuating vision
- 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
- Use of autologous platelet-rich plasma or inverted ILM flap in complex cases
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
- Adjunctive techniques: inverted ILM flap, autologous platelet-rich plasma
- Cataract Surgery – Can be combined if needed
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 and retinal structure
- Planning for vitrectomy, ILM peeling, and tamponade strategy
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Decide vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Determine need for ILM peeling, inverted flap, or platelet-assisted closure
- Plan adjunctive cataract surgery if necessary
Step 3 – Macular Hole Closure Surgery
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision vitrectomy to remove vitreous traction
- ILM peeling or inverted flap technique applied
- Sterile gas bubble inserted for macular hole tamponade
- Optional autologous platelet application in large or chronic holes
- 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 macular hole closure
- Restoration of central visual acuity
- Improved quality of vision with reduced distortion
- Prevention of further macular damage
Longevity
- Permanent closure of treated macular holes
- Lifelong OCT monitoring recommended for high-risk or chronic-hole patients
- Combined surgical and medical management ensures durable outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced vitreoretinal surgeons specializing in macular hole closure
- Microincision 25G/27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- OCT-guided ILM peeling and advanced macular repair techniques
- AI-assisted surgical planning for precise closure
- High success rates with rapid outpatient or short-stay protocols
- Access to adjunctive techniques like inverted ILM flap or autologous platelet-assisted closure
Unique Korean Innovations
- OCT-assisted ILM peeling and macular hole repair
- Inverted ILM flap and autologous platelet-rich plasma techniques for complex cases
- Microforceps-assisted precision peeling
- Personalized postoperative positioning protocols
- Integration with cataract or adjunctive therapies for optimal outcomes
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Macular Hole Closure | ₩6,500,000 – ₩9,500,000 | ~$5,000 – $7,300 | 25G/27G vitrectomy + ILM peeling + gas tamponade + OCT follow-up |
| Complex Closure (Inverted ILM/PRP-Assisted) | ₩8,500,000 – ₩12,000,000 | ~$6,600 – $9,200 | Vitrectomy + ILM flap or PRP + gas tamponade + OCT monitoring |
| Combined Procedure (Closure + Cataract) | ₩9,500,000 – ₩13,000,000 | ~$7,300 – $10,000 | Vitrectomy + macular hole repair + 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
