Treatment Overview
Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma Vitrectomy in Korea is an innovative microsurgical procedure that combines pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with the use of the patient’s own platelet-rich plasma to promote retinal healing and reduce complications. The procedure is particularly effective for treating persistent vitreous hemorrhage, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, and other vitreoretinal disorders where enhanced tissue regeneration and reduced inflammation are desired.
Korea is internationally recognized for integrating PRP-assisted vitrectomy programs with:
- Microincision vitrectomy surgery (25G/27G) for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- Preoperative preparation and intraoperative application of autologous PRP
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for precise retinal visualization
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized treatment
- Combination procedures with membrane peeling, laser photocoagulation, or tamponade if required
- Rapid outpatient or short-stay surgical protocols
This approach enhances retinal repair, promotes tissue regeneration, and improves postoperative anatomical and functional outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Promote retinal healing and reduce postoperative inflammation
- Stabilize the retina in patients with diabetic retinopathy or vitreous hemorrhage
- Enhance closure of macular holes and other retinal defects
- Support tissue regeneration after membrane peeling or retinal repair
Benefits
- Uses autologous PRP for a natural, biocompatible healing boost
- Minimally invasive, high-precision vitrectomy technique
- Intraoperative OCT ensures accurate retinal alignment
- Reduced risk of recurrent bleeding and postoperative complications
- Shorter recovery period and faster visual rehabilitation
- Can be combined with cataract surgery or ILM peeling
Ideal Candidates
Autologous PRP Vitrectomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with persistent vitreous hemorrhage due to diabetic retinopathy
- Individuals with macular holes or retinal defects requiring enhanced healing
- Eyes with tractional retinal detachment needing tissue support
- High-risk patients undergoing membrane peeling or retinal repair
- Patients requiring combined retinal and cataract surgery
Possible Risks & Complications
Common/Moderate Risks
- Temporary blurred vision post-surgery
- 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
- PRP preparation using sterile, autologous techniques
- OCT-guided surgery for precise membrane and retinal management
- Careful postoperative monitoring with OCT and fundus imaging
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Core surgical technique
- Autologous Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Application – Promotes healing and tissue regeneration
- Laser Photocoagulation – Prevents recurrent neovascular complications
- Internal Limiting Membrane (ILM) Peeling – Reduces traction
- OCT-Guided Monitoring – Ensures accurate retinal alignment
- Adjunctive Gas or Silicone Oil Tamponade – Provides internal retinal support if required
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive ophthalmologic exam including OCT, fundus photography, and visual acuity testing
- Evaluation of retinal defects, hemorrhage, or macular involvement
- Planning for microincision vitrectomy and PRP preparation
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Decide vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Determine need for ILM peeling or membrane removal
- Evaluate adjunctive tamponade or laser requirements
Step 3 – Autologous PRP Vitrectomy
- Local or general anesthesia
- Collection and preparation of the patient’s autologous PRP
- Microincision vitrectomy to remove vitreous hemorrhage and traction
- Apply autologous PRP to target retinal areas
- Repair retinal tears with laser or cryotherapy if required
- Combine with membrane peeling or tamponade as needed
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
- Maintain prescribed head positioning if tamponade used
- Avoid heavy lifting, bending, or eye rubbing
- Follow all medication instructions strictly
- Attend scheduled postoperative visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision due to surgical intervention
- 1–2 Weeks: Inflammation subsides, partial visual improvement
- 1–4 Weeks: PRP promotes retinal healing; OCT confirms alignment
- Long-Term: Periodic monitoring ensures optimal regeneration and retinal stability
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Enhanced retinal healing and stabilization
- Reduced intraoperative and postoperative bleeding
- Improved anatomical outcomes and visual function
- Prevention of recurrent vitreous hemorrhage or macular defects
Longevity
- Long-term retinal stabilization and tissue regeneration
- Lifelong OCT monitoring recommended for high-risk patients
- Combined surgical and autologous PRP therapy ensures durable outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced vitreoretinal surgeons with PRP expertise
- Microincision 25G/27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- Autologous PRP integration for enhanced healing
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for precision
- AI-assisted surgical planning and individualized patient protocols
- High success rates with rapid outpatient or short-stay protocols
Unique Korean Innovations
- Autologous PRP application for enhanced retinal regeneration
- Intraoperative OCT-assisted retinal repair
- Microincision 27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- AI-assisted surgical planning for high-risk cases
- Integration with laser or pharmacologic adjuncts for comprehensive retinal care
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard PRP-Assisted Vitrectomy | ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 | ~$4,600 – $6,900 | 25G/27G vitrectomy + autologous PRP + OCT follow-up |
| PRP + Membrane/ILM Peeling | ₩7,500,000 – ₩11,000,000 | ~$5,800 – $8,500 | Vitrectomy + membrane peeling + PRP + OCT monitoring |
| Combined Procedure (PRP + Cataract Surgery) | ₩9,500,000 – ₩14,000,000 | ~$7,400 – $10,900 | Vitrectomy + PRP + 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
