Treatment Overview
Diode MicroPulse Laser Trabeculoplasty (DMLT) in Korea is a next-generation, non-incisional Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedure that enhances the eye’s natural aqueous outflow by applying gentle, pulsed diode laser energy to the trabecular meshwork. Unlike traditional laser trabeculoplasty, which uses continuous energy, MicroPulse technology breaks laser energy into rapid, ultra-short pulses, preventing thermal damage and promoting safe, controlled tissue modulation.
Korean ophthalmology centers integrate DMLT with AI-guided energy calibration, digital ocular topography, OCT-based angle imaging, and advanced MicroPulse laser systems. These enhancements provide precise laser delivery, minimized inflammation, rapid healing, and effective long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction without incisions or implants.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Stimulate and enhance trabecular meshwork function to improve outflow facility.
- Lower intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma.
- Offer a safe, non-invasive alternative to incisional MIGS.
- Reduce or delay the need for medication or more aggressive surgery.
Benefits
- Non-Invasive & Gentle: No incision, no tissue destruction, and minimal inflammation.
- Low Complication Risk: MicroPulse energy prevents thermal coagulation.
- Effective IOP Reduction: Suitable for mild, moderate, and some advanced cases.
- Can Be Repeated: Safe for multi-session treatments when needed.
- Fast Recovery: Patients return to normal activities almost immediately.
- Reduced Medication Dependence: Many patients lower or eliminate glaucoma drops.
- Compatible With Other MIGS: Can be combined with goniotomy, canaloplasty, or stents.
Ideal Candidates
Diode MicroPulse Laser Trabeculoplasty in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
- Individuals wanting a non-incisional MIGS option.
- Patients intolerant to glaucoma medications.
- Those who have had partial response to SLT or traditional LTP.
- Individuals needing additional IOP control before considering invasive surgery.
- Patients with healthy corneal clarity and visualized trabecular meshwork.
Possible Risks & Complications
DMLT has one of the lowest complication profiles among glaucoma treatments. Mild effects may include:
- Temporary redness or irritation
- Short-lived IOP fluctuations
- Mild inflammation
- Subtle discomfort during the procedure
- Rare transient corneal haze
Korean clinics use AI-based power modulation, advanced cooling protocols, and real-time thermal mapping to minimize risks and optimize patient comfort.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Based Laser Parameter Planning
Algorithms determine ideal duty cycle, power, and duration customized to each eye.
MicroPulse Energy Delivery
Laser energy is released in tiny pulses, allowing tissue cooling between pulses and minimizing heat accumulation.
Trabecular Meshwork Targeting
Laser is applied along the pigmented trabecular meshwork to stimulate cellular and structural changes.
360º or Sector-Based Treatment
Depending on glaucoma severity, surgeons may treat the entire angle or select regions.
OCT & Topography Integration
Enhanced imaging ensures proper targeting and avoids collateral exposure.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Glaucoma Evaluation
Includes gonioscopy, IOP measurement, corneal thickness analysis, and OCT imaging.
Step 2 – Personalized Laser Protocol
AI determines energy parameters and treatment pattern.
Step 3 – Laser Application
A MicroPulse diode laser is applied to the trabecular meshwork under topical anesthesia.
Step 4 – Immediate Post-Check
IOP and ocular response are evaluated.
Treatment Duration: 3–7 minutes per eye
Setting: Outpatient, no incision or downtime
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use anti-inflammatory drops for 3–7 days if recommended.
- Resume normal activities immediately.
- Continue glaucoma medications unless advised otherwise.
- Attend follow-up visits at Day 1, Week 1, and Month 1.
Recovery Timeline
Day 1: Mild redness possible; IOP may begin showing improvement.
Week 1: Stabilization with noticeable pressure reduction.
Weeks 2–6: Peak treatment effectiveness reached.
1–3 Months: Long-term stabilization and assessment of medication reduction.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Significant reduction in IOP through enhanced trabecular outflow.
- Smoother healing compared to traditional laser trabeculoplasty.
- Less risk of scarring due to pulsed energy delivery.
- Possible decrease in glaucoma medication use.
Longevity
- Results typically last 1–3 years, depending on glaucoma severity.
- Repeat treatment sessions can extend benefits with minimal risk.
- Korean AI-optimized protocols improve long-term consistency.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- State-of-the-Art MicroPulse Systems: Latest diode technology ensures precision and safety.
- AI-Calibrated Energy Control: Personalized parameters optimize results.
- High Success and Safety Rates: Low complication rates and strong pressure reduction.
- Integrated Imaging Platforms: OCT, topography, and AI mapping enhance accuracy.
- Rapid, Comfortable Treatment: Ideal for busy patients seeking minimal downtime.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-driven laser dosing and pattern optimization.
- Cooling-regulation protocols to maintain ideal tissue temperature.
- OCT-guided angle mapping prior to treatment.
- Hybrid strategies (DMLT + MIGS) for enhanced IOP control.
- Advanced long-term glaucoma tracking with deep-learning progression analysis.
These innovations make Diode MicroPulse Laser Trabeculoplasty in Korea one of the safest, most refined, and most effective non-incisional MIGS treatments available for open-angle glaucoma.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard DMLT Session | ₩500,000 – ₩900,000 | ~$380 – $680 | Single-session MicroPulse treatment with basic imaging |
| Premium AI-Guided DMLT Package | ₩1,000,000 – ₩1,600,000 | ~$750 – $1,200 | AI-calibrated dosing, OCT mapping, extended monitoring |
| Comprehensive Glaucoma Laser Program | ₩1,800,000 – ₩2,800,000+ | ~$1,350 – $2,100+ | Multiple sessions, hybrid MIGS combinations, long-term follow-up |
Final pricing varies depending on clinic, equipment, and surgeon expertise.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Leaders in diode MicroPulse laser glaucoma therapy.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Known for AI-guided laser energy modulation.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Experts in laser-based and MIGS treatment integration.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Focuses on high-precision, low-thermal trabeculoplasty.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Specializes in minimally invasive glaucoma management.
