Treatment Overview
Hydrus Microstent Implantation in Korea is a sophisticated Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedure designed to enhance natural aqueous humor outflow through Schlemm’s canal. The Hydrus Microstent is a flexible, crescent-shaped, biocompatible micro-implant inserted into the canal to scaffold and dilate 90 degrees of its circumference, improving access to multiple collector channels.
Korean ophthalmology centers combine this FDA-approved microstent technology with OCT-guided canal imaging, 3D gonioscopy, micro-incision cataract surgery integration, AI-powered canal mapping, and precision stent positioning systems. These innovations ensure exceptional accuracy, long-term safety, and reliable intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction for patients with open-angle glaucoma.
The Hydrus Microstent is often implanted during cataract surgery but can also be used as a standalone MIGS procedure.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Enhance natural trabecular outflow by scaffolding Schlemm’s canal.
- Lower intraocular pressure in mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
- Provide a minimally invasive alternative to filtering surgery.
- Reduce dependence on long-term glaucoma medications.
Benefits
- 90º Canal Scaffolding: Opens Schlemm’s canal along a long segment to optimize drainage.
- Increased Access to Collector Channels: Enhances fluid escape routes for better IOP control.
- Biocompatible Titanium Alloy: Minimizes inflammation and long-term complications.
- Minimal Tissue Trauma: Inserted through a tiny corneal incision.
- Predictable IOP Reduction: Stable, long-term outflow improvement.
- Ideal for Cataract Combination: Seamlessly integrates with phacoemulsification.
- Medication Reduction: Many patients reduce or eliminate glaucoma eye drops.
Ideal Candidates
Hydrus Microstent Implantation in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
- Individuals undergoing combined cataract + MIGS surgery.
- Those who prefer implant-based MIGS rather than tissue-removing procedures.
- Patients needing long-term IOP stabilization with minimal surgical trauma.
- Individuals with healthy angle anatomy and open access to Schlemm’s canal.
- Patients seeking reduced medication burden and improved quality of life.
Possible Risks & Complications
Hydrus has a strong safety profile, but mild risks may include:
- Temporary inflammation or redness
- Mild hyphema (blood reflux)
- Transient blurred vision
- Microstent malposition (rare; corrected during surgery)
- IOP fluctuations in early healing phase
Korean surgeons reduce risks using:
- AI-based canal segmentation
- Intraoperative OCT confirmation
- Real-time angle visualization
- Micro-guided stent delivery systems
Surgical Techniques
AI-Based Canal Mapping
Analyzes Schlemm’s canal architecture and collector channel distribution to select the ideal insertion zone.
Micro-Incision Access
A 1.8–2.0 mm incision is created for stent delivery and angle visualization.
Hydrus Microstent Deployment
The flexible stent is inserted into Schlemm’s canal, dilating it for 90 degrees and maintaining channel openness.
OCT-Assisted Position Verification
Ensures proper centering, depth, and alignment of the microstent.
Combined Cataract Approach (Common)
Often inserted during phacoemulsification for synergistic IOP reduction.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Comprehensive Evaluation
Includes gonioscopy, OCT, IOP assessment, and AI-based canal flow analysis.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
Determines stent placement zone, canal curvature, and delivery angle.
Step 3 – Micro-Incision Cataract Surgery (if combined)
Performed before stent implantation for clear visualization and angle access.
Step 4 – Hydrus Microstent Insertion
Surgeon places the microstent into Schlemm’s canal with precise imaging guidance.
Step 5 – Postoperative Monitoring
Follow-up visits assess IOP stabilization and stent position.
Treatment Duration: 8–12 minutes for standalone; 20–30 minutes if combined with cataract surgery
Setting: Outpatient, same-day procedure
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops for 2–4 weeks.
- Avoid rubbing the eye, heavy lifting, or swimming for 1 week.
- Wear sunglasses to protect against UV exposure.
- Continue glaucoma medications unless instructed otherwise.
- Attend follow-up visits at Day 1, Week 1, Month 1, and Month 3.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3: Mild redness or irritation; early IOP changes begin.
Week 1: Improved vision and canal patency.
Weeks 2–4: Stable IOP reduction; possible medication taper.
1–3 Months: Full healing and long-term microstent stability.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Significant and stable IOP reduction.
- Enhanced natural outflow via maintained canal dilation.
- Reduced reliance on glaucoma medications.
- Long-term safety with minimal complications.
Longevity
- Hydrus Microstent provides multi-year to decade-level IOP stability.
- Titanium construction resists collapse, corrosion, or degradation.
- Korean imaging and monitoring protocols support long-term success.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Leading MIGS Expertise: Korean surgeons specialize in advanced hydrus and canal-based MIGS.
- OCT-Enhanced Accuracy: High-resolution imaging for optimal placement.
- AI-Guided Planning: Personalized canal mapping and flow prediction.
- Minimally Invasive Protocols: Faster recovery and superior comfort.
- Excellent Outcomes: Proven long-term pressure control and patient satisfaction.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-powered canal and collector channel analysis.
- Real-time intraoperative OCT for position verification.
- Micro-guided delivery to optimize stent alignment.
- Hybrid MIGS strategies (Hydrus + KDB, Hydrus + ELT, Hydrus + canaloplasty).
- Long-term IOP and stent health monitoring using deep-learning progression software.
These innovations make Hydrus Microstent Implantation in Korea one of the most refined, effective, and safe MIGS options for open-angle glaucoma.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Hydrus Implantation | ₩2,000,000 – ₩3,000,000 | ~$1,500 – $2,300 | Microstent placement with basic imaging & follow-up |
| Premium OCT-Guided Hydrus Package | ₩3,200,000 – ₩4,800,000 | ~$2,400 – $3,600 | AI pathways analysis, OCT confirmation, extended after-care |
| Hybrid MIGS Hydrus Program | ₩5,000,000 – ₩7,500,000+ | ~$3,800 – $5,600+ | Hydrus + combined MIGS for greater IOP reduction |
Costs vary by technology level, surgeon expertise, and inclusion with cataract surgery.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Leaders in canal-based MIGS and Hydrus implantation.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Known for precise OCT-guided MIGS procedures.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Experts in Hydrus + cataract combination surgery.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Focuses on minimally invasive canal enhancement techniques.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Specializes in AI-optimized MIGS planning.
