Treatment Overview
Excimer Laser Trabeculotomy in Korea is an innovative, non-thermal Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) technique that improves aqueous outflow by creating micro-perforations in the trabecular meshwork using a cold excimer laser. Unlike thermal lasers or mechanical goniotomies, ELT uses ultraviolet (UV) excimer laser pulses to photochemically ablate tissue with extreme precision and zero heat damage.
Korean ophthalmology centers utilize advanced OCT-guided angle imaging, 3D gonioscopy, femtosecond-assisted alignment, and AI-based trabecular targeting to perform ELT with outstanding accuracy and long-term safety. This procedure preserves intraocular structures, avoids thermal injury, and restores natural outflow through Schlemm’s canal.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Enhance natural aqueous drainage by creating micro-perforations in the trabecular meshwork.
- Lower intraocular pressure (IOP) with a tissue-sparing, non-thermal approach.
- Provide a precise alternative to mechanical or thermal trabecular MIGS.
- Reduce reliance on long-term glaucoma medications.
Benefits
- Cold Laser Technology: No heat-induced tissue damage or scarring.
- Highly Precise: Creates uniform micro-channels into Schlemm’s canal.
- Minimal Inflammation: Due to non-thermal ablation.
- Natural Drainage Restoration: Works with the eye’s physiological pathways.
- Fast Recovery: Very mild postoperative symptoms.
- Compatible with Cataract Surgery: Often combined with phacoemulsification.
- Repeatable: Safe to repeat if more channels are needed.
Ideal Candidates
Excimer Laser Trabeculotomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
- Individuals desiring a non-thermal, low-risk MIGS procedure.
- Patients undergoing combined cataract + MIGS surgery.
- Those intolerant to glaucoma medications or needing additional IOP reduction.
- Individuals with healthy angle anatomy and clear corneas.
- Early-stage glaucoma patients seeking a long-term, minimally invasive solution.
Possible Risks & Complications
ELT has a very low complication profile thanks to cold-laser precision. Mild effects may include:
- Temporary ocular redness
- Short-lived blurred vision
- Mild irritation
- Small hyphema (rare)
- Minor IOP fluctuations
Korean surgeons further reduce risks using AI-guided laser mapping, real-time canal visualization, and micro-spot energy delivery control.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Based Angle Analysis
Identifies optimal locations for micro-perforations and predicts flow improvement.
Excimer Laser Photochemical Ablation
Cold UV pulses create micro-channels without thermal damage.
Gonioscopic Targeting
High-definition goniolenses support accurate laser placement.
OCT-Assisted Canal Visualization
Enables confirmation of micro-channel depth and alignment.
360º Treatment Patterns (Optional)
Multiple perforations can be placed around the angle for enhanced outflow.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Comprehensive Glaucoma Evaluation
Includes OCT, IOP measurement, visual field testing, and trabecular meshwork analysis.
Step 2 – Laser Mapping & Surgical Planning
AI algorithms determine perforation number, spacing, and ideal angle locations.
Step 3 – Micro-Incision Access
A 1.8–2.0 mm corneal incision provides entry for the laser probe.
Step 4 – Excimer Laser Trabeculotomy
8–12 micro-perforations are created to open Schlemm’s canal.
Step 5 – Postoperative Monitoring
Follow-up visits assess canal patency and IOP stabilization.
Treatment Duration: 5–10 minutes per eye
Setting: Outpatient, same-day discharge
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use anti-inflammatory drops for 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid strenuous activities and rubbing the eye for several days.
- Wear protective sunglasses outdoors.
- Continue or taper medications as instructed.
- Attend follow-up visits at Day 1, Week 1, and Month 1.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3: Mild irritation, slight redness; early pressure response begins.
Week 1: Clearer vision and more stable IOP.
Weeks 2–4: Optimized outflow with reduced medication need.
1–3 Months: Full healing and long-term stability.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Noticeable IOP reduction through enhanced trabecular outflow.
- Reduced need for glaucoma medications.
- Minimal inflammation and fast recovery.
- Consistent long-term results in early-to-moderate glaucoma.
Longevity
- ELT provides multi-year pressure control, depending on glaucoma severity.
- Channels remain functional long-term due to non-thermal ablation that minimizes scarring.
- Repeatable if additional perforations are needed later.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Advanced Excimer Technology: Korean clinics use latest-generation cold-laser platforms.
- AI-Based Targeting: Highly personalized trabecular mapping for maximum outflow.
- Cutting-Edge Imaging: OCT-integrated angle analysis enhances precision.
- MIGS-Centered Expertise: Leading specialists in non-thermal and tissue-sparing glaucoma surgery.
- Rapid, Comfortable Recovery: High patient satisfaction with minimal downtime.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-enhanced micro-channel pattern planning.
- 3D gonioscopic visualization for improved targeting.
- Micro-perforation spacing algorithms for optimal fluid dynamics.
- Hybrid MIGS protocols (ELT + Canaloplasty / Goniotomy).
- Long-term drainage monitoring using machine-learning progression tracking.
These innovations make Excimer Laser Trabeculotomy in Korea one of the most precise, low-risk, and physiologically aligned MIGS procedures for early and moderate glaucoma.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard ELT Procedure | ₩1,200,000 – ₩1,800,000 | ~$900 – $1,350 | Cold-laser ELT with basic imaging and follow-up |
| Premium OCT-Guided ELT Package | ₩2,000,000 – ₩3,200,000 | ~$1,500 – $2,400 | AI laser mapping, OCT assistance, extended monitoring |
| Hybrid MIGS ELT Program | ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,000,000+ | ~$2,600 – $3,800+ | ELT + combined canal-based MIGS for enhanced IOP control |
Pricing varies depending on clinic, equipment level, and surgeon expertise.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Leading excimer-based MIGS specialists.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Known for OCT-guided excimer laser precision.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Experts in hybrid MIGS incorporating ELT.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Focuses on cold-laser accuracy and rapid recovery.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Specialists in AI-enhanced laser trabeculotomy.
