Treatment Overview
The High-Resolution Macular Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) Scan in Korea is an advanced, non-invasive imaging procedure designed to capture detailed cross-sectional images of the macula and retinal layers. This technology allows ophthalmologists to detect and monitor subtle structural changes in the retina with micron-level resolution.
Macular OCT is essential for evaluating diabetic macular edema, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), macular holes, epiretinal membranes, and other retinal pathologies. Korea is internationally recognized for integrating the latest OCT systems, offering:
- Ultra-high-resolution spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT)
- Swept-source OCT (SS-OCT) for deeper retinal and choroidal imaging
- 3D macular mapping with layer segmentation
- AI-assisted analysis for early detection of macular pathology
- Serial imaging dashboards to track progression over time
- Multimodal imaging integration (OCT + OCTA + FAF + FA)
These innovations provide precise visualization of retinal anatomy, enabling early diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of retinal diseases.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Detect macular edema, thickening, or thinning
- Evaluate retinal layer integrity in AMD, diabetic retinopathy, and macular holes
- Identify early epiretinal membranes or vitreomacular traction
- Monitor postoperative retinal changes after surgery or injections
- Guide treatment decisions such as anti-VEGF injections, laser therapy, or surgery
- Track disease progression over time with high-resolution imaging
Benefits
- Completely non-invasive and painless
- High-resolution images of all retinal layers, including photoreceptors and RPE
- Enables early detection before visual symptoms develop
- AI-assisted segmentation highlights areas of concern
- Rapid acquisition for efficient clinic workflow
- Essential for treatment planning and follow-up
- Compatible with all patient age groups, including elderly and diabetic patients
Ideal Candidates
High-Resolution Macular OCT Scan in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with diabetic macular edema or diabetic retinopathy
- Individuals with age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
- Patients with macular holes, epiretinal membranes, or vitreomacular traction
- Individuals with unexplained central vision distortion or blurred vision
- Postoperative patients requiring retinal monitoring
- Patients undergoing anti-VEGF or steroid injections for macular disease
- Routine screening for individuals over 50 at risk of macular disease
Possible Risks & Complications
High-Resolution Macular OCT is extremely safe. Potential minor effects include:
Common/Minor Effects:
- Temporary eye strain during imaging
- Mild light sensitivity from scanning laser
Rare/Serious Risks:
- Allergic reaction to dilation drops if used (rare)
- Minimal risk of dizziness in sensitive patients
Korean clinics minimize risks through:
- Non-dilated imaging protocols where possible
- Low-intensity, high-speed scanning systems
- Highly trained technicians for patient comfort
- Pre-screening for light sensitivity or ocular conditions
Related Diagnostic Techniques
- OCT Angiography (OCTA) – Non-invasive retinal vascular mapping
- Fundus Photography – Color documentation of retina
- Fluorescein Angiography (FA) – Retinal vascular evaluation
- Fundus Autofluorescence (FAF) – Retinal pigment assessment
- Ultra-Widefield Imaging – Peripheral retina evaluation
- Multimodal Retinal Imaging – Integration of OCT with other modalities for comprehensive assessment
Diagnostic Process in Korea
Step 1 – Pre-Imaging Assessment
- Review of medical and ocular history
- Visual acuity and intraocular pressure assessment
- Pupil dilation if required
Step 2 – OCT Image Acquisition
- Patient positioned at the OCT device
- High-resolution macular scans captured in cross-section and 3D
- AI-assisted layer segmentation highlights abnormal findings
Step 3 – Specialist Interpretation
- Ophthalmologist evaluates macular structure, thickness, and retinal layers
- Identification of edema, atrophy, or membrane formation
- Correlation with FA, FAF, or OCTA if needed for comprehensive diagnosis
Step 4 – Follow-Up
- Images stored digitally for longitudinal comparison
- Repeat OCT performed to monitor progression or treatment response
Duration: 10–15 minutes
Setting: Advanced retinal imaging center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- No special precautions needed
- Temporary light sensitivity if pupils were dilated
- Resume normal daily activities immediately
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Slight eye strain possible during scanning
- 1–2 Hours: Vision returns to normal post-dilation
- Long-Term: Periodic OCT allows monitoring for disease progression
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- High-resolution visualization of macular and retinal layers
- Early detection of edema, holes, membranes, or degeneration
- Accurate guidance for treatment planning
- Documentation for long-term monitoring of disease or postoperative recovery
Longevity
- Digital OCT images preserved for years
- Serial imaging enables early detection of progression
- Combined with multimodal imaging for comprehensive long-term care
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- State-of-the-art spectral-domain and swept-source OCT systems
- AI-assisted layer segmentation for enhanced diagnostic accuracy
- Highly trained retina specialists with extensive experience
- Multimodal imaging integration for complete macular assessment
- Rapid, efficient scanning with minimal patient discomfort
- One-stop imaging for both screening and treatment follow-up
Unique Korean Innovations
- Ultra-high-resolution macular OCT (3–5 μm axial resolution)
- 3D retinal layer segmentation and macular mapping
- AI-assisted analysis of macular thickness and edema
- Combined OCT + OCTA + FAF imaging in a single session
- Digital dashboards for longitudinal monitoring and progression analysis
These innovations make Korea a world leader in High-Resolution Macular OCT Scanning, providing precise detection, monitoring, and guidance for advanced retinal care.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Macular OCT Scan | ₩80,000 – ₩150,000 | ~$60 – $115 | Cross-sectional macular imaging |
| OCT + OCTA Package | ₩150,000 – ₩300,000 | ~$115 – $230 | Macular OCT + non-invasive vascular mapping |
| OCT + FAF Package | ₩200,000 – ₩350,000 | ~$150 – $270 | Macular OCT + FAF imaging |
| Comprehensive Macular Panel | ₩250,000 – ₩500,000 | ~$190 – $380 | OCT + OCTA + FAF + multimodal analysis |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
