Treatment Overview
Fornix-Based Trabeculectomy in Korea is a widely used, highly effective glaucoma filtration surgery that creates a drainage pathway under a conjunctival flap positioned near the limbus (fornix area). This approach allows excellent surgical access, predictable bleb formation, and efficient postoperative management. It is one of the most commonly performed forms of trabeculectomy worldwide and is particularly favored in Korea for its reliability and controlled outcomes.
Korean ophthalmology centers utilize AI-guided surgical planning, OCT-assisted bleb imaging, and precision scleral flap construction to optimize filtration, minimize complications, and ensure long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Lower intraocular pressure by creating a controlled alternative drainage pathway.
- Reduce optic nerve damage and prevent glaucoma progression.
- Achieve long-term pressure control in patients unresponsive to medication or laser.
- Promote a well-formed, functional filtration bleb in the fornix area.
Benefits
- Wide Surgical Access: Easier tissue handling and more precise flap creation.
- Better Bleb Formation: Diffuse, posterior blebs with reduced infection risk.
- Lower Risk of Conjunctival Breakdown: Especially valuable for long-term stability.
- Efficient Postoperative Management: Easier bleb adjustment, massage, and needling.
- Stronger IOP Reduction: Effective for moderate to severe glaucoma.
- Ideal for MMC Application: Enhances anti-scarring control and durability.
Ideal Candidates
Fornix-Based Trabeculectomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with moderate to advanced glaucoma needing strong IOP reduction.
- Individuals with primary open-angle, pseudoexfoliative, or secondary glaucoma.
- Those who have not responded adequately to medications or laser procedures.
- Patients with a good conjunctival profile for fornix-based flap creation.
- Individuals requiring a long-lasting pressure-lowering solution.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although safe and effective, potential risks include:
- Mild inflammation or discomfort
- Transient hypotony (low IOP)
- Small bleb leak in early healing
- Shallow anterior chamber
- Minor bleeding
- Scarring that may reduce filtration
Korean clinics minimize these risks using high-precision tissue handling, controlled anti-scarring therapy, and advanced postoperative imaging.
Types of Fornix-Based Trabeculectomy Techniques in Korea
Standard Fornix-Based Trabeculectomy
Conjunctival flap created at the limbus for easy access and predictable outcomes.
MMC-Enhanced Fornix-Based Trabeculectomy
Mitomycin-C applied to reduce scarring and enhance longevity.
Fornix-Based Trabeculectomy with Scleral Implant
Implant placed beneath the flap to maintain filtration space.
Fornix-Based Combined with Phacoemulsification
For patients requiring cataract removal and glaucoma surgery together.
Fornix-Based Revision Surgery
Used to restore filtration in previously failed trabeculectomy sites.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Guided Surgical Planning
Predicts scarring risk and determines ideal incision type and location.
Fornix-Based Conjunctival Flap Creation
The flap is dissected near the corneal limbus for optimal exposure.
Partial-Thickness Scleral Flap Construction
Allows controlled fluid flow underneath the conjunctiva.
Trabecular Block Excision
Opens a drainage pathway for aqueous humor to exit.
Peripheral Iridectomy
Prevents iris blockage of the filtration site.
Application of MMC or 5-FU
Reduces fibrosis and maintains long-term bleb function.
Bleb Formation and Suture Modulation
Ensures uniform, posteriorly directed bleb development.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Comprehensive Evaluation
Includes OCT, visual fields, IOP measurement, and conjunctival assessment.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
Surgeon selects flap size, position, and anti-scarring protocol.
Step 3 – Fornix-Based Trabeculectomy
Performed under local anesthesia using precise microsurgical tools.
Step 4 – Immediate Postoperative Care
Topical anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops prescribed.
Step 5 – Long-Term Follow-Up
OCT imaging and clinical exams ensure filtration stability and bleb health.
Treatment Duration: 25–40 minutes
Setting: Surgical center or hospital
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use prescribed eye drops consistently for several weeks.
- Avoid rubbing the eye, lifting heavy objects, or exposing the eye to untreated water.
- Wear protective eyewear during sleep for the first week.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to evaluate bleb shape and IOP.
- Report sudden pain, redness, or vision decrease immediately.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild irritation or redness.
- Week 1: Early bleb formation begins; IOP drops significantly.
- Weeks 2–4: Bleb becomes more stable and diffuse.
- Months 1–3: Long-term filtration pathway fully established.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- 30–60% reduction in intraocular pressure.
- Stable, diffuse bleb with lower complication risk.
- Reduced dependency on glaucoma medications.
- Improved long-term protection of the optic nerve.
Longevity
- Results typically last 10–20 years or more, depending on scarring tendency.
- Anti-scarring protocols used in Korean clinics significantly extend longevity.
- Fornix-based blebs have excellent long-term performance when maintained properly.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- World-class glaucoma surgeons specializing in advanced trabeculectomy.
- OCT and UBM-assisted surgical imaging ensures exceptional precision.
- AI-enhanced scarring prediction personalizes each surgery.
- Highly refined techniques reduce complications and improve durability.
- Comprehensive postoperative care ensures long-term bleb health.
Unique Korean Innovations
- Precision-designed fornix-based flap customization.
- AI-assisted prediction of bleb morphology.
- Microdosed MMC protocols for safer fibrosis control.
- Real-time OCT monitoring during postoperative period.
- Implant-enhanced fornix-based techniques for high-risk patients.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Procedure Type | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Fornix-Based Trabeculectomy | ₩3,000,000 – ₩5,000,000 | ~$2,300 – $3,750 | Surgery + follow-up |
| MMC-Enhanced Technique | ₩4,000,000 – ₩6,500,000 | ~$3,000 – $4,900 | MMC application + imaging |
| Implant-Assisted Fornix-Based Surgery | ₩5,500,000 – ₩8,000,000 | ~$4,150 – $6,000 | Implant + extended care |
| Combined Cataract + Trabeculectomy | ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 | ~$4,500 – $6,750 | Dual surgery package |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Leaders in advanced trabeculectomy techniques.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Specialists in bleb-enhancing fornix-based methods.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Known for precision filtration surgery.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – Experts in OCT-guided trabeculectomy planning.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-driven glaucoma surgery design.
