Treatment Overview
Laser Trabeculotomy in Korea is a minimally invasive glaucoma procedure that uses focused laser energy to create micro-openings in the trabecular meshwork, enhancing aqueous humor outflow and lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). Unlike laser trabeculoplasty—which stimulates or remodels tissue—laser trabeculotomy creates direct drainage channels, restoring more efficient access to Schlemm’s canal.
Korean glaucoma specialists use advanced Nd:YAG, argon, and excimer laser systems, along with AI-guided angle targeting, OCT-assisted visualization, and micro-incision precision techniques, delivering safe and highly effective results for patients with open-angle glaucoma.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Create micro-openings in the trabecular meshwork for improved outflow.
- Reduce IOP in patients with open-angle glaucoma.
- Serve as an alternative to MIGS or trabeculoplasty for early to intermediate disease.
- Enhance natural drainage without creating external blebs.
Benefits
- Direct Flow Enhancement: Provides a more immediate drainage pathway.
- Minimally Invasive: No major incisions or tissue removal.
- Fast Recovery: Most patients experience quick visual and pressure stabilization.
- Medication Reduction: Many patients require fewer or no drops after treatment.
- Repeatable in Select Cases: Laser can be reapplied if tissue closes.
- Less Tissue Damage: Compared to incisional trabeculotomy.
Ideal Candidates
Laser trabeculotomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).
- Individuals who did not respond well to SLT or ALT.
- Those seeking a minimally invasive procedure without implants.
- Patients who want to reduce their dependence on glaucoma medications.
- Individuals not yet ready for MIGS, goniotomy, or trabeculectomy.
- Adults with anatomically accessible angles for laser entry.
Possible Risks & Complications
Laser trabeculotomy is extremely safe, but may involve:
- Mild inflammation
- Small hyphema (trace blood in the anterior chamber)
- Temporary IOP spike
- Light sensitivity
- Transient blurred vision
- Rare closure of the laser-created openings
Korean ophthalmology centers reduce risks with precision energy control, real-time imaging, and postoperative anti-inflammatory regimens.
Types of Laser Trabeculotomy in Korea
Nd:YAG Laser Trabeculotomy
Uses focused YAG energy to create precise micro-openings into Schlemm’s canal.
Argon Laser Trabeculotomy
Thermal laser application that penetrates and reshapes trabecular tissue.
Excimer Laser Trabeculotomy (ELT)
A highly precise, non-thermal laser technique that vaporizes tissue without heat damage.
Combined Trabeculotomy + Trabeculoplasty
For enhanced outflow and prolonged benefits.
Surgical Techniques
Goniolens-Assisted Visualization
Provides clear access to the angle and trabecular meshwork.
AI-Guided Laser Targeting
Determines ideal locations for micro-perforation based on resistance mapping.
Micro-Opening Creation
Laser energy creates small, clean channels from the anterior chamber into Schlemm’s canal.
Segmental or 360° Treatment
Multiple openings created depending on severity and anatomical needs.
Post-Laser Outflow Assessment
OCT imaging verifies adequate flow and patency of new channels.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Comprehensive Evaluation
Includes IOP testing, gonioscopy, OCT imaging, and visual field assessment.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
Determines laser type (YAG, argon, or excimer) and the required treatment arc.
Step 3 – Laser Trabeculotomy
Laser applied to the trabecular meshwork to create drainage channels.
Step 4 – Immediate Aftercare
Anti-inflammatory drops provided; IOP checked shortly after the procedure.
Step 5 – Follow-Up Monitoring
IOP and channel patency monitored over weeks and months.
Treatment Duration: 5–10 minutes
Setting: Outpatient laser suite
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use anti-inflammatory drops as prescribed.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes or engaging in strenuous activities.
- Continue glaucoma medications until advised otherwise.
- Attend follow-up visits to confirm channel function.
- Protect eyes from excessive light for a day or two.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild irritation or redness; early IOP reduction begins.
- Week 1: Vision stabilizes; channels remain open.
- Weeks 2–4: Peak outflow improvement observed.
- Months 1–6: Stable pressure control maintained.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- 20–35% average IOP reduction.
- Reduced dependence on glaucoma medications.
- Improved trabecular outflow with direct access to Schlemm’s canal.
- Strong safety profile compared to incisional methods.
Longevity
- Results typically last 1–3 years, depending on healing response.
- Treatments can be repeated or combined with MIGS as needed.
- Korean clinics achieve longer stability with OCT-verified targeting.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Advanced laser platforms (YAG, argon, excimer).
- AI-calibrated energy delivery for precise tissue penetration.
- High-definition goniovisualization ensures optimal targeting.
- Low complication rates due to refined Korean protocols.
- Holistic glaucoma care with long-term monitoring and combination therapy options.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-based resistance mapping of the trabecular meshwork.
- Hybrid trabeculotomy + trabeculoplasty protocols.
- Excimer laser use for non-thermal, tissue-sparing procedures.
- Intraoperative OCT verification of channel formation.
- Predictive modeling for long-term IOP reduction.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nd:YAG Trabeculotomy | ₩350,000 – ₩700,000 | ~$260 – $520 | YAG openings + follow-up care |
| Excimer Laser Trabeculotomy (ELT) | ₩800,000 – ₩1,500,000 | ~$600 – $1,150 | Non-thermal ELT + imaging |
| Combined Trabeculotomy + Trabeculoplasty | ₩1,200,000 – ₩1,800,000 | ~$900 – $1,350 | Dual laser program + extended follow-up |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Experts in ELT and advanced trabeculotomy.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Specialists in YAG and argon laser trabeculotomy.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Leaders in non-thermal excimer-based glaucoma care.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – Known for OCT-guided angle laser treatments.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-enhanced laser glaucoma surgery.
