Treatment Overview
Focal Macular Surgery in Korea is a specialized microsurgical procedure designed to treat localized macular disorders such as macular edema, small macular holes, epiretinal membranes, or focal retinal thickening. The surgery involves pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) to remove the vitreous gel and any tractional forces on the macula, often combined with adjunctive techniques such as membrane peeling, laser photocoagulation, or pharmacologic interventions.
Korea is internationally recognized for advanced focal macular surgery programs that integrate:
- Microincision vitrectomy surgery (25G/27G) for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for precise macular assessment
- Targeted membrane peeling or focal laser/endophotocoagulation as required
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized macular management
- Combination procedures with cataract surgery or pharmacologic therapy if necessary
- Rapid outpatient or short-stay surgical protocols
This approach ensures effective macular restoration, reduces traction, and improves central vision outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Remove localized traction or membranes affecting the macula
- Restore macular anatomy and thickness
- Improve central visual acuity and reduce distortion
- Prevent progression of macular edema, holes, or other focal disorders
Benefits
- Minimally invasive and high-precision microsurgical technique
- Intraoperative OCT ensures accurate macular repair
- Short recovery period and improved central vision
- Can be combined with cataract surgery or membrane peeling if necessary
- Reduced risk of recurrence with targeted treatment
Ideal Candidates
Focal Macular Surgery in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with small macular holes or early-stage macular pathology
- Individuals with epiretinal membranes limited to the macular region
- Eyes with focal macular edema unresponsive to medical therapy
- High-risk patients needing combined membrane peeling or laser
- Patients seeking improved central vision for daily activities
Possible Risks & Complications
Common/Moderate Risks
- Temporary blurred or fluctuating vision
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Minor retinal edema
Rare/Serious Risks
- Retinal tear or detachment
- Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection)
- Cataract progression in phakic patients
- Persistent macular edema
- Vision loss in severe cases
Korean specialists minimize risks through:
- Microincision vitrectomy (25G/27G) for minimal trauma
- OCT-guided macular surgery for precision
- Careful intraoperative and postoperative monitoring
- Use of biocompatible adjuncts like dyes or pharmacologic agents
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Core surgical technique
- Internal Limiting Membrane (ILM) Peeling – Reduces macular traction and recurrence
- Intraoperative OCT – Real-time macular visualization
- Laser Photocoagulation or Endophotocoagulation – For focal retinal lesions
- Anti-VEGF Therapy – Adjunctive pharmacologic treatment in selected cases
- Cataract Surgery – Can be combined if needed
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive ophthalmologic exam including OCT, fundus photography, and visual acuity testing
- Evaluation of macular thickness, edema, or traction
- Planning for vitrectomy, focal membrane peeling, or adjunctive therapy
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Decide vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Determine need for ILM peeling or focal laser/photocoagulation
- Plan adjunctive pharmacologic interventions if required
Step 3 – Focal Macular Surgery
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision vitrectomy to remove vitreous traction
- Targeted membrane peeling, laser, or pharmacologic application on the macula
- Combine with cataract surgery if necessary
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- OCT imaging to confirm macular repair and alignment
- Visual acuity and intraocular pressure monitoring
- Prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops
Step 5 – Follow-Up & Maintenance
- Regular OCT and fundus exams
- Additional interventions only if complications or recurrence occur
Duration: 60–120 minutes depending on complexity
Setting: Advanced vitreoretinal surgery center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
- Follow prescribed medications strictly
- Attend all scheduled postoperative visits
- Maintain head positioning if tamponade was used
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred or fluctuating vision
- 1–2 Weeks: Inflammation subsides; partial visual improvement
- 4–6 Weeks: OCT confirms macular restoration and resolution of traction
- Long-Term: Periodic monitoring ensures sustained visual improvement
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Resolution of macular traction and edema
- Improved central visual acuity
- Restoration of macular anatomy
- Reduced risk of recurrence with ILM peeling and targeted therapy
Longevity
- Long-term stability of macular structure
- Lifelong OCT monitoring recommended for high-risk patients
- Combined surgical and pharmacologic management ensures durable outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced vitreoretinal surgeons specializing in macular surgery
- Microincision 25G/27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- Intraoperative OCT and targeted macular intervention
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized macular care
- High success rates with rapid outpatient or short-stay protocols
Unique Korean Innovations
- OCT-assisted focal macular surgery
- Microforceps-assisted precision peeling
- Integration with adjunctive laser or anti-VEGF therapy
- Personalized postoperative monitoring and rehabilitation protocols
- Combined procedures for coexisting cataract or macular disorders
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Focal Macular Surgery | ₩5,500,000 – ₩8,500,000 | ~$4,300 – $6,600 | 25G/27G vitrectomy + focal macular repair + OCT follow-up |
| Focal Macular + ILM Peeling | ₩7,000,000 – ₩10,000,000 | ~$5,500 – $7,700 | Vitrectomy + ILM peeling + OCT monitoring |
| Combined Procedure (Macular Surgery + Cataract) | ₩8,500,000 – ₩12,500,000 | ~$6,600 – $9,600 | Vitrectomy + macular repair + cataract surgery + follow-up |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
