Treatment Overview
The DME Grid Laser Photocoagulation Program in Korea is a targeted retinal therapy designed to treat diabetic macular edema (DME) by stabilizing the macula and preventing vision loss. Grid laser photocoagulation uses a precise laser to apply multiple small burns to areas of retinal thickening and leakage in the macula, reducing fluid accumulation and improving retinal function.
Korea is globally recognized for its advanced laser therapy programs, integrating:
- High-precision pattern scanning and focal/grid lasers
- Fundus photography and OCT-guided laser planning
- Real-time laser titration to minimize retinal damage
- Widefield and macular mapping for customized treatment
- Integration with anti-VEGF therapy for combination management
- AI-assisted evaluation for treatment planning and follow-up
This program provides effective stabilization of vision in DME patients and reduces the risk of progressive central vision loss.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reduce retinal thickening and macular edema in diabetic patients
- Prevent further vision loss in chronic or progressive DME
- Target microaneurysms and leaky capillaries in the macular grid
- Complement anti-VEGF therapy for resistant cases
- Stabilize retinal anatomy and function
- Provide long-term retinal protection in high-risk diabetic patients
Benefits
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
- Precise targeting with minimal collateral retinal damage
- Can be combined with pharmacologic therapy for enhanced effect
- Reduces risk of central vision loss over time
- Enhances structural integrity of the macula
- Safe and reproducible when performed by experienced Korean specialists
- Quick procedure with rapid recovery and follow-up monitoring
Ideal Candidates
The DME Grid Laser Photocoagulation Program in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with clinically significant macular edema (CSME)
- Individuals with persistent DME despite anti-VEGF therapy
- Diabetic patients at high risk of central vision loss
- Patients requiring stabilization of retinal thickness
- Individuals who prefer long-term structural therapy in combination with injections
- Those with localized microaneurysms or focal leakage patterns
Possible Risks & Complications
While generally safe, grid laser photocoagulation may carry minor risks, including:
Common/Moderate Risks:
- Temporary blurred vision or mild discomfort
- Slight retinal scarring at laser sites
- Mild floaters after treatment
Rare/Serious Risks:
- Central vision decrease if burns are too close to the fovea
- Hemorrhage at laser spots
- Rare development of choroidal neovascularization
Korean specialists minimize risks with:
- OCT and fundus-guided laser planning
- Real-time titration of laser energy
- Targeted burns only in thickened or leaking areas
- Regular follow-up imaging for safety and efficacy
Related Treatment Techniques
- Anti-VEGF Therapy
May be used in combination for refractory DME. - Focal Laser Photocoagulation
Targets individual microaneurysms outside the macular grid. - Corticosteroid Implants
Useful for chronic DME not responding to laser or anti-VEGF. - OCT-Guided Monitoring
Ensures accurate assessment of macular thickness and edema resolution. - Vitrectomy Surgery
Considered for tractional or complex DME cases.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Baseline Imaging
- OCT, fundus photography, and fluorescein angiography identify areas of edema and leakage.
Step 2 – Laser Planning
- Macular map created for precise grid pattern placement
- Energy settings and spot sizes customized per patient
Step 3 – Grid Laser Photocoagulation
- Local anesthesia with topical eye drops
- Multiple small laser burns applied to areas of macular thickening
- Real-time monitoring ensures safety around the foveal center
Step 4 – Post-Laser Assessment
- Immediate fundus inspection to check burn placement
- OCT follow-up scheduled to monitor edema resolution
Step 5 – Follow-Up and Maintenance
- Periodic OCT imaging for retinal thickness
- Additional laser or anti-VEGF therapy as needed
Program Duration: 20–40 minutes
Setting: Advanced retinal laser clinic
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid rubbing or pressing on the eye
- Use prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops if needed
- Monitor for sudden vision changes or flashes
- Attend follow-up OCT imaging sessions for edema monitoring
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurring or light sensitivity
- 1–2 Weeks: Retina stabilizes, laser spots visible but minimally disruptive
- 1–6 Months: Macular edema typically reduces; vision stabilization monitored
- Long-Term: Periodic OCT ensures sustained protection against DME progression
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Reduction in central macular thickness
- Stabilization or modest improvement in visual acuity
- Prevention of further vision loss in chronic DME
- Complementary effect with anti-VEGF or corticosteroid therapy
- Improved long-term macular structural integrity
Longevity
- Effects typically last 6–12 months per session
- Repeat sessions can be scheduled if edema persists
- OCT monitoring supports ongoing long-term retinal health
- Combination therapy enhances durability of results
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Experienced retinal specialists trained in pattern scanning lasers
- Integration with OCT, OCTA, and AI-assisted planning
- High-precision laser equipment with safety protocols
- Personalized macular maps for each patient
- Strong track record in managing diabetic retinopathy and DME
- Efficient outpatient procedures with rapid recovery
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-guided grid and focal laser planning
- Widefield OCT-guided laser placement
- Combined multimodal therapy with anti-VEGF and corticosteroids
- Real-time retinal thickness monitoring during treatment
- Longitudinal imaging dashboards for serial evaluation
These innovations make Korea’s
DME Grid Laser Photocoagulation Program
one of the most advanced and effective therapies for diabetic macular edema worldwide.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Program Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Grid Laser Session | ₩300,000 – ₩500,000 | ~$230 – $380 | Baseline OCT + laser treatment |
| Combination Therapy (Laser + Anti-VEGF) | ₩800,000 – ₩1,500,000 | ~$600 – $1,150 | Laser + injection + follow-up OCT |
| Comprehensive DME Management Plan | ₩1,500,000 – ₩2,500,000+ | ~$1,150 – $1,900+ | Laser + OCT/OCTA + anti-VEGF or corticosteroid therapy |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
