Treatment Overview
Ab-interno Micro-Goniotomy (AIMG) in Korea is a next-generation Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedure designed to enhance natural aqueous outflow by removing or incising a precise strip of the trabecular meshwork from inside the eye. This micro-incision technique bypasses the primary site of resistance in open-angle glaucoma while preserving ocular tissue and maintaining normal anatomical integrity.
Korean ophthalmology centers perform AIMG with high-definition gonioscopic visualization, micro-blade and micro-electrocautery systems, OCT-guided angle imaging, and AI-assisted flow modeling. These technologies ensure superior surgical precision, enhanced safety, and immediate pressure reduction with minimal inflammation and rapid visual recovery.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Create a controlled opening in the trabecular meshwork to restore physiological aqueous drainage.
- Reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) without external filtration or tissue removal.
- Provide a minimally invasive alternative to traditional glaucoma surgeries.
- Decrease dependence on long-term glaucoma medications.
Benefits
- Direct Outflow Restoration: Removes resistance at the trabecular meshwork for improved drainage.
- Minimal Trauma: Performed through a 1.8–2.0 mm corneal incision without external bleb formation.
- Rapid Recovery: Minimal inflammation and quick return to normal activities.
- Effective IOP Control: Suitable for mild to moderate glaucoma with predictable results.
- Medication Reduction: Many patients significantly reduce or stop glaucoma drops.
- High Safety Profile: Low risk of complications due to controlled ab-interno approach.
Ideal Candidates
Ab-interno Micro-Goniotomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma seeking a safe, minimally invasive option.
- Individuals with medication intolerance or poor compliance.
- Patients undergoing combined cataract + MIGS procedures.
- Individuals with healthy corneal clarity and open anterior chamber angles.
- Patients desiring reduced medication burden and faster recovery compared to traditional surgery.
Possible Risks & Complications
AIMG is considered extremely safe, but minor risks may include:
- Mild hyphema: A common, temporary effect as Schlemm’s canal opens.
- Transient IOP fluctuations: Usually stabilizes within days.
- Mild inflammation: Easily managed with postoperative drops.
- Temporary blurred vision: Improves rapidly as healing progresses.
- Rare angle closure or scarring: Minimized with Korean anti-fibrotic strategies.
Korean glaucoma specialists use OCT-guided visualization, AI-based flow prediction, and micro-precise surgical tools to reduce risks and ensure long-term success.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Enhanced Canal Analysis
Analyzes trabecular resistance, angle width, and outflow capacity to plan the ideal incision pattern.
Direct Gonioscopic Visualization
High-definition gonioscopes provide magnified views of angle structures for accurate micro-incision execution.
Micro-Blade / Micro-Cautery Goniotomy
Removes or incises a controlled section of trabecular meshwork using specialized micro-tools.
Schlemm’s Canal Flow Optimization
Enhances access to collector channels, improving natural outflow efficiency.
OCT-Guided Technique Verification
Ensures proper incision depth, angle alignment, and canal patency during the procedure.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Comprehensive Glaucoma Assessment
Includes gonioscopy, corneal topography, retinal OCT, visual field testing, and AI-based drainage modeling.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
Customized goniotomy length, incision type (excisional or incisional), and angle location are selected.
Step 3 – Micro-Incision Access
A tiny corneal incision (1.8–2.0 mm) provides entry into the anterior chamber.
Step 4 – Goniotomy Execution
Under gonioscopic guidance, a micro-blade or micro-cautery device removes the trabecular strip to open Schlemm’s canal.
Step 5 – Postoperative Monitoring
Follow-up visits evaluate canal patency, IOP reduction, and medication management.
Treatment Duration: 10–15 minutes per eye
Setting: Outpatient (same-day discharge)
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops for 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid strenuous activity, eye rubbing, and swimming for one week.
- Wear protective eyewear outdoors.
- Continue glaucoma medications only if instructed by the surgeon.
- Attend follow-up visits at Day 1, Week 1, and Month 1 for IOP monitoring.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3: Clearer vision with mild redness or blood reflux.
Week 1: IOP reduction becomes more consistent; goniotomy site healing begins.
Weeks 2–4: Vision stabilizes; medication use often decreases significantly.
1–3 Months: Long-term stability with maintained outflow improvement.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Effective IOP reduction by improving natural drainage pathways.
- Reduced dependence on medications.
- Minimized ocular trauma compared to traditional surgeries.
- Fast visual restoration with minimal postoperative discomfort.
Longevity
- AIMG delivers durable results for many years, especially when performed with Korean imaging-guided precision.
- The effect is long-lasting due to permanent removal of trabecular resistance.
- Success rates remain high in mild to moderate glaucoma patients.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Cutting-Edge MIGS Expertise: Korean surgeons are global leaders in minimally invasive glaucoma procedures.
- Advanced Imaging Tools: OCT-guided techniques ensure accurate goniotomy placement.
- AI-Driven Personalization: Customized drainage pathway mapping for predictable outcomes.
- Integrated Care System: Diagnostics, surgery, and follow-up are seamlessly connected.
- Exceptional Safety & Efficacy: High precision, low complications, and excellent pressure reduction.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-based trabecular resistance simulation.
- Goniotomy micro-blade enhancements for cleaner incisions.
- OCT-assisted canal verification during surgery.
- Hybrid MIGS combinations (goniotomy + canaloplasty) for enhanced results.
- Tissue-preserving protocols for long-term outflow stability.
These innovations make Ab-interno Micro-Goniotomy in Korea one of the safest, most effective minimally invasive options for early to moderate glaucoma management.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Micro-Goniotomy | ₩1,200,000 – ₩1,900,000 | ~$900 – $1,400 | Micro-incision goniotomy, basic imaging, postop care |
| Premium OCT-Guided Goniotomy Package | ₩2,000,000 – ₩3,200,000 | ~$1,500 – $2,400 | OCT-guided angle imaging, AI planning, precision micro-tools |
| Hybrid MIGS Enhancement Program | ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,000,000+ | ~$2,600 – $3,800+ | Combined goniotomy + canaloplasty or stent-based MIGS |
Prices vary based on clinic, technology used, and surgeon expertise.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Specialists in goniotomy with AI-guided angle diagnostics.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Leaders in OCT-assisted MIGS procedures.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Known for hybrid MIGS approaches and combined cataract cases.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Focused on high-precision goniotomy and long-term IOP stability.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Renowned for minimally invasive glaucoma care and real-time imaging guidance.
