Treatment Overview
The Endolaser Photocoagulation Program in Korea is a specialized retinal laser therapy used to treat retinal tears, detachments, and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). Unlike external laser treatments, endolaser photocoagulation delivers laser energy directly to the retina during vitrectomy surgery via a probe inserted into the vitreous cavity.
Korea is globally recognized for its advanced endolaser programs, integrating:
- High-precision intraoperative laser delivery
- Integration with 25G/27G microincision vitrectomy systems
- Real-time OCT and widefield imaging guidance
- Pattern scanning laser technology for efficient retinal coverage
- Combined surgical approaches with membrane peeling or gas/silicone tamponade
- AI-assisted monitoring for optimal burn placement and safety
This program provides highly effective treatment for retinal vascular diseases and complex retinal detachments, minimizing the risk of vision loss.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Treat retinal tears and prevent progression to retinal detachment
- Manage proliferative diabetic retinopathy and neovascularization
- Reduce retinal edema and ischemia during vitrectomy
- Stabilize the retina after complex retinal surgeries
- Complement other surgical procedures like membrane peeling and gas tamponade
Benefits
- Direct, targeted treatment under surgical visualization
- Immediate control of retinal bleeding and neovascularization
- Minimally invasive with microincision vitrectomy techniques
- Reduces the risk of recurrent retinal detachment
- Can be combined with other retinal interventions in a single surgery
- High precision reduces collateral retinal damage
- Improved long-term retinal stability
Ideal Candidates
The Endolaser Photocoagulation Program in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with retinal tears or holes at risk of detachment
- Individuals with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR)
- Cases of vitreous hemorrhage requiring vitrectomy
- Patients with tractional retinal detachment
- Individuals undergoing complex retinal surgery requiring intraoperative laser treatment
- High-risk diabetic patients with retinal neovascularization
Possible Risks & Complications
Endolaser photocoagulation is generally safe when performed during vitrectomy, but potential risks include:
Common/Moderate Risks:
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Temporary blurred vision
- Vitreous floaters post-surgery
Rare/Serious Risks:
- Retinal hemorrhage
- Unintended retinal burns
- Increased intraocular pressure (IOP)
- Recurrent retinal detachment
- Endophthalmitis (very rare)
Korean specialists minimize risks with:
- Intraoperative OCT and widefield imaging guidance
- Controlled laser energy and burn placement
- Sterile surgical protocols and postoperative monitoring
- Combination therapy planning with vitrectomy and tamponade
Related Treatment Techniques
- Vitrectomy Surgery
Endolaser is often performed during microincision vitrectomy. - Scleral Buckling
May be combined for complex retinal detachment repair. - Cryotherapy
Alternative for peripheral retinal tears in select cases. - Intravitreal Anti-VEGF
Used preoperatively to reduce neovascularization in PDR. - OCT-Guided Monitoring
Postoperative OCT ensures retinal stability and edema resolution.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive retinal evaluation with OCT and widefield imaging
- Fundus photography to map retinal tears or neovascularization
- Measurement of visual acuity and IOP
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Selection of microincision vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Identification of areas for endolaser treatment
- Preoperative anti-VEGF if necessary
Step 3 – Vitrectomy and Endolaser Application
- Local or general anesthesia applied
- Vitrectomy performed to clear vitreous hemorrhage or traction
- Laser applied directly to retina via endolaser probe
- Real-time monitoring ensures precision and safety
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- Immediate fundus inspection to verify laser placement
- OCT and widefield imaging to monitor retinal attachment and edema
- IOP and visual acuity follow-up
Step 5 – Maintenance & Follow-Up
- Regular retinal examinations to detect recurrence
- OCT-guided monitoring of macular edema or neovascularization
- Additional laser or vitrectomy if needed
Program Duration: 60–120 minutes (depending on complexity)
Setting: Advanced retinal surgery center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid strenuous activity and eye trauma for several weeks
- Use prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops
- Monitor for sudden vision changes, flashes, or floaters
- Attend all scheduled postoperative visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision and mild eye discomfort
- 1–2 Weeks: Retinal inflammation subsides, vision gradually improves
- 1–3 Months: Retina stabilizes, laser scars visible on fundus exam
- Long-Term: Regular retinal monitoring prevents recurrence of detachment or neovascularization
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Stabilization or reattachment of retina
- Control of retinal neovascularization in PDR
- Reduced risk of recurrent vitreous hemorrhage
- Preservation of long-term visual acuity
- Complementary effect with other retinal procedures
Longevity
- Endolaser effects are permanent at treated sites
- Ongoing monitoring ensures early detection of new tears or neovascularization
- Combination with vitrectomy and tamponade increases long-term success
- OCT and fundus imaging guide lifelong retinal care
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- World-class retinal surgeons experienced in microincision vitrectomy
- Advanced endolaser equipment with OCT-guided visualization
- Integrated surgical and pharmacologic retinal care
- Personalized treatment planning for complex retinal diseases
- High success rates in retinal detachment and PDR management
- Efficient outpatient and inpatient surgical facilities
Unique Korean Innovations
- OCT-guided endolaser placement during vitrectomy
- AI-assisted retinal mapping for optimal burn coverage
- Integration with microincision vitrectomy systems (25G/27G)
- Combined therapy protocols with anti-VEGF or corticosteroids
- Longitudinal imaging dashboards for serial postoperative evaluation
These innovations make Korea’s
Endolaser Photocoagulation Program
one of the most advanced and effective retinal surgical therapies worldwide.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Program Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Endolaser during Vitrectomy | ₩2,500,000 – ₩4,500,000 | ~$1,900 – $3,400 | Vitrectomy + endolaser + OCT follow-up |
| Complex Retinal Surgery with Endolaser | ₩5,000,000 – ₩8,000,000+ | ~$3,800 – $6,100+ | Combined vitrectomy, endolaser, tamponade, and monitoring |
| Endolaser + Anti-VEGF Therapy | ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,000,000+ | ~$4,600 – $6,900+ | Integrated retinal surgery + injection + OCT follow-up |
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
