Treatment Overview
The Keratometry-Based Glaucoma Screening Program in Korea is an advanced diagnostic system that evaluates corneal curvature and biomechanical properties as indicators of glaucoma risk. Korean ophthalmology centers utilize precise keratometry measurements alongside corneal thickness analysis, IOP correction algorithms, and AI-enhanced screening tools to improve the detection of early glaucoma, especially in patients with unusual corneal parameters.
Keratometry plays a crucial role in glaucoma risk prediction because corneal curvature affects:
- IOP measurement accuracy
- Biomechanical response to pressure
- Optic nerve stress susceptibility
- Risk of underdiagnosed normal-tension glaucoma (NTG)
This program integrates keratometry with comprehensive glaucoma testing to identify individuals who may require closer monitoring, early intervention, or custom IOP corrections.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Evaluate corneal curvature to identify glaucoma-related risk patterns
- Improve accuracy of IOP readings by correcting for corneal curvature
- Detect early signs of glaucoma in patients with atypical corneal shapes
- Identify patients at increased risk of NTG or fluctuating IOP
- Provide precise baseline data for long-term glaucoma monitoring
- Support decisions for further imaging or intervention
Benefits
- More accurate IOP interpretation through corneal curvature correction
- Early identification of high-risk individuals
- Better detection of NTG, especially in thin or steep corneas
- Enhanced screening accuracy compared to standard IOP-only exams
- Improved diagnostic precision when combined with OCT and visual fields
- Ideal for patients undergoing refractive or cataract evaluation
- Supports individualized glaucoma risk scoring
Ideal Candidates
The Keratometry-Based Glaucoma Screening Program in Korea is ideal for:
- Individuals with thin or irregular corneas
- Patients with unusually steep or flat keratometry values
- Individuals with risk factors such as family history, diabetes, or high myopia
- Patients preparing for LASIK, PRK, or cataract surgery
- NTG suspects experiencing unexplained visual symptoms
- Individuals with inconsistent IOP readings
- Patients with early structural changes not matching visual field results
Possible Risks & Complications
The screening program is completely safe and non-invasive. Minor considerations include:
- Slight variability due to dry eyes or blinking
- Temporary tearing or discomfort during keratometry
- Risk of over- or underinterpretation without proper correction factors
Korean clinics minimize these with:
- AI-enhanced calibration algorithms
- Repeat measurements for accuracy
- Integration with corneal biomechanics assessments
- Detailed interpretation by glaucoma specialists
Surgical Techniques
(These may be recommended when screening results suggest elevated risk.)
1. Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Used for patients showing structural risk with borderline pressures.
2. MicroPulse Laser Therapy
Beneficial for NTG patients with steep corneas or corneal thinning.
3. MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery)
Considered for patients with early structural loss or angle narrowing:
- iStent Inject
- Hydrus Microstent
- KDB Goniotomy
- Canaloplasty
- GATT
4. Corneal Thickness–Adjusted IOP Management
Medication and treatment plans adjusted according to IOP correction algorithms.
5. Filtration Surgery
Reserved for advanced or rapidly progressing cases.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Keratometry Measurement
Automated keratometers assess corneal curvature, astigmatism, and radius.
Step 2 – Corneal Thickness & Biomechanics Analysis
Includes pachymetry, ORA, or CST for accurate IOP adjustment.
Step 3 – Corrected IOP Evaluation
Pressure readings adjusted according to corneal curvature patterns.
Step 4 – Additional Glaucoma Screening
Includes OCT, OCTA, and visual field testing as needed.
Step 5 – Risk Categorization
AI tools classify patients into low, intermediate, or high risk.
Step 6 – Personalized Follow-Up Plan
Recommendations for follow-up interval, imaging, or treatment.
Screening Duration: 20–40 minutes
Setting: Outpatient diagnostic center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use lubricating drops if eyes feel dry after the exam
- Report symptoms like halos, eye pain, or dimming
- Follow recommended follow-up intervals (every 6–12 months)
- Maintain systemic health (blood pressure, sleep, vascular health)
- Proceed with additional imaging or treatment if advised
Recovery Timeline
Immediately: Resume normal activities
1–7 Days: Results reviewed and integrated into glaucoma risk evaluation
1–3 Months: Follow-up if borderline results require re-testing
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Accurate identification of corneal curvature–related glaucoma risk
- Improved precision of IOP measurement
- Early detection of glaucoma in patients with atypical corneas
- Better long-term monitoring through accurate baselines
- Enhanced early intervention decisions
Longevity
- Keratometry results remain stable long-term unless the cornea changes
- Provides lasting reference data for glaucoma monitoring
- Enhanced accuracy when compared with future IOP and OCT results
- Supports lifelong glaucoma risk tracking
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Leading expertise in corneal diagnostics and curvature-based glaucoma analysis
- AI-enhanced IOP correction systems
- Integration of keratometry with advanced OCT and visual field testing
- Specialists experienced in NTG and corneal biomechanics
- Highly accurate screening protocols with top-tier technology
- Comprehensive patient-centered evaluation systems
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-based keratometry–IOP correction algorithms
- Corneal curvature-integrated glaucoma risk scoring
- Combined corneal, structural, and vascular imaging dashboards
- Diagnostic correlation tools for OCT, VF, and keratometry
- Customized screening intervals based on corneal patterns
These innovations make Korea’s
Keratometry-Based Glaucoma Screening Program
one of the most advanced screening systems for early and accurate glaucoma risk detection.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Program Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Keratometry Glaucoma Screening | ₩80,000 – ₩150,000 | ~$60 – $110 | Keratometry + IOP correction |
| Advanced Corneal-Based Glaucoma Risk Program | ₩250,000 – ₩450,000 | ~$190 – $340 | Pachymetry + biomechanics + AI risk scoring |
| Comprehensive Keratometry-Integrated Evaluation | ₩600,000 – ₩1,200,000+ | ~$450 – $900+ | Full OCT + VF + corneal integration diagnostics |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam)
