Treatment Overview
Diode Laser Cyclophotocoagulation (CPC) in Korea is an effective glaucoma laser procedure used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) by reducing aqueous humor production. This is achieved by applying controlled diode laser energy to the ciliary body, the structure responsible for fluid production inside the eye.
Korean glaucoma centers specialize in transscleral CPC, micropulse CPC (MP-CPC), and endoscopic CPC, utilizing advanced imaging, AI-guided energy calibration, and optimized laser delivery systems to ensure maximum safety and precision while minimizing side effects.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Lower intraocular pressure by reducing aqueous humor production.
- Treat moderate to severe glaucoma unresponsive to medications or surgery.
- Offer a non-incisional alternative to filtration or shunt surgery.
- Provide a safer, more controlled laser treatment option for complex glaucoma cases.
Benefits
- Non-Invasive in Most Cases: Transscleral CPC requires no incisions.
- Effective for Advanced Glaucoma: Strong IOP-lowering effect.
- Minimal Recovery Time: Especially with micropulse CPC.
- Repeatable: Can be safely performed again if needed.
- Reduced Risk of Major Complications: Modern protocols minimize inflammation.
- Useful for Eyes With Limited Surgical Options: Including post-surgical or scarred eyes.
Ideal Candidates
Diode Laser Cyclophotocoagulation in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with moderate, advanced, or refractory glaucoma.
- Individuals with severe optic nerve damage requiring aggressive pressure control.
- Patients who have failed medications, MIGS, SLT, or filtering surgeries.
- Eyes with limited visual potential but uncontrolled IOP.
- Individuals seeking non-incisional glaucoma treatment (transscleral CPC).
- Patients with medically sensitive or surgically complex eyes.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although diode CPC is considered safe, potential risks include:
- Temporary inflammation: Common but manageable.
- Mild pain or discomfort: Typically short-lived.
- Temporary vision changes: Usually stabilizes quickly.
- Rare IOP spikes: Controlled with medication.
- Excessive ciliary body damage (rare): Minimized with micropulse systems.
- Corneal edema (uncommon): Usually improves with time.
Korean ophthalmologists minimize risks using AI-calibrated power settings, real-time energy modulation, and refined treatment protocols.
Types of Diode CPC in Korea
Transscleral Diode CPC (TSCPC)
Non-incisional, standard method using a probe applied externally to the sclera.
Micropulse CPC (MP-CPC)
Delivers laser energy in short, repeated bursts—reducing inflammation and tissue damage.
Endoscopic CPC (ECP)
Performed internally through micro-incision; allows direct visualization of the ciliary body.
Combined Cataract + CPC
Used for patients with cataracts and uncontrolled glaucoma needing dual treatment.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Guided Laser Calibration
Determines power, duty cycle, and duration for safe ciliary body treatment.
Targeted Ciliary Body Application
Laser applied externally (TSCPC/MP-CPC) or viewed internally (ECP).
Controlled Laser Delivery
Micropulse systems minimize heat buildup and tissue damage.
Endoscopic Visualization (ECP)
Provides real-time imaging for precise photocoagulation.
Post-Laser Modulation Protocols
Medications and cooling techniques reduce inflammation and improve comfort.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Comprehensive Glaucoma Assessment
Includes IOP measurements, optic nerve OCT, and visual field testing.
Step 2 – Treatment Selection
Surgeon determines whether TSCPC, MP-CPC, or ECP is most suitable.
Step 3 – Laser Cyclophotocoagulation
Laser energy applied to ciliary body to reduce aqueous production.
Step 4 – Postoperative Care
Anti-inflammatory and pressure-lowering drops started.
Step 5 – Follow-Up Monitoring
IOP, comfort, and inflammation levels monitored closely.
Treatment Duration: 10–20 minutes
Setting: Outpatient or same-day procedure
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use anti-inflammatory drops for 1–4 weeks.
- Avoid rubbing the eye or heavy physical activity.
- Use pain medication if prescribed.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding ongoing glaucoma medications.
- Attend scheduled follow-up visits for IOP checks.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild discomfort or redness; IOP begins responding.
- Week 1: Noticeable IOP stabilization; inflammation decreases.
- Weeks 2–4: Vision stabilizes; long-term IOP effects become clearer.
- Months 1–3: Final pressure-lowering effect achieved.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Significant reduction in intraocular pressure.
- Lower dependence on glaucoma medications.
- Safe for eyes not suitable for invasive surgery.
- Strong outcomes, especially with micropulse and endoscopic techniques.
Longevity
- Results typically last 6 months to several years, depending on glaucoma severity.
- MP-CPC and ECP provide longer-lasting reduction.
- CPC can be repeated if pressure starts rising again.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Leaders in diode and micropulse laser technology.
- Advanced imaging (OCT/UBM) enables precise ciliary body targeting.
- AI-guided energy personalization improves safety and consistency.
- Extensive experience with refractory and complex glaucoma cases.
- Comprehensive post-op monitoring systems ensure optimal long-term control.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-calibrated micropulse duty cycles for safer CPC.
- Thermal-protection systems minimizing collateral damage.
- Hybrid ECP + MIGS approaches for multi-mechanism IOP control.
- 360° ciliary body mapping for personalized laser delivery.
- Predictive modeling to estimate long-term pressure outcomes.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Transscleral CPC | ₩1,200,000 – ₩2,200,000 | ~$900 – $1,650 | External diode CPC + follow-up care |
| Micropulse CPC (MP-CPC) | ₩2,400,000 – ₩3,800,000 | ~$1,800 – $2,900 | Micropulse laser + customized parameters |
| Endoscopic CPC (ECP) | ₩3,800,000 – ₩5,500,000 | ~$2,900 – $4,200 | Direct-visualization ECP + surgical suite |
| Combined Cataract + CPC | ₩5,500,000 – ₩7,800,000+ | ~$4,100 – $5,800+ | Phaco + CPC + extended monitoring |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Experts in micropulse and endoscopic CPC.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Specialists in diode CPC for complex cases.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Leaders in advanced laser glaucoma care.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – High-precision diode and MP-CPC systems.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-guided laser dosing.
