Treatment Overview
Lumen Trabecular Micro-Bypass in Korea is a highly refined Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) technique designed to restore natural aqueous humor drainage by creating a precise micro-bypass through the trabecular meshwork (TM). Unlike implant-based MIGS, the Lumen technique focuses on creating a controlled opening or micro-channel that allows fluid to flow directly into Schlemm’s canal—without inserting permanent devices.
Korean ophthalmology centers enhance the procedure with OCT-guided angle imaging, AI-based TM resistance mapping, digital gonioscopy, micro-incision delivery systems, and flow-optimized micro-bypass engineering. This results in a clean, stable channel that enhances outflow while preserving the natural drainage anatomy.
This technique is ideal for patients who want a device-free, minimally traumatic, and physiologically aligned MIGS option for open-angle glaucoma.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Create a micro-bypass through the trabecular meshwork to access Schlemm’s canal.
- Reduce intraocular pressure in mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
- Provide a safe, implant-free alternative to stent-based MIGS.
- Restore natural aqueous humor dynamics and lower medication burden.
Benefits
- No Permanent Implant: Reduces risks associated with foreign materials.
- Low Trauma: Minimal bleeding and inflammation.
- Improved Physiological Outflow: Restores natural, near-normal canal flow.
- Fast Recovery: Mild postoperative discomfort with rapid vision restoration.
- Clean, Controlled Micro-Channel: Engineered opening with predictable outflow.
- Long-Term Stability: Less scarring than traditional incisional goniotomy.
- Highly Compatible with Cataract Surgery: Commonly performed together.
Ideal Candidates
Lumen Trabecular Micro-Bypass in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.
- Individuals seeking a device-free MIGS solution.
- Patients undergoing combined cataract + MIGS surgery.
- Those unable to tolerate or respond well to glaucoma medications.
- Individuals desiring minimal risk, low inflammation, and fast recovery.
- Patients with accessible angle anatomy and healthy TM structure.
Possible Risks & Complications
The procedure is extremely safe, but mild short-term effects may occur:
- Small hyphema (temporary blood reflux)
- Short-lived irritation or light sensitivity
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Transient blurred vision
- Early IOP fluctuations
- Rare micro-channel scarring
Korean clinics minimize complications using:
- AI-calibrated bypass depth and width control
- OCT-based TM thickness analysis
- Precision micro-blade engineering
- Digital fluid modeling to optimize channel shape
Surgical Techniques
AI-Guided TM Resistance Mapping
Identifies the ideal site for micro-bypass creation based on flow resistance patterns.
Micro-Incision Access
A 1.8–2.0 mm incision allows angle entry without disrupting other ocular structures.
Lumen Micro-Bypass Creation
A specialized micro-blade or micro-needle creates a precisely sized bypass channel through the trabecular meshwork.
Schlemm’s Canal Opening
The channel provides direct access to Schlemm’s canal, improving outflow.
OCT Verification
Ensures exact depth, placement, and openness of the bypass.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Comprehensive Evaluation
Includes OCT, IOP measurement, gonioscopy, TM thickness mapping, and canal imaging.
Step 2 – Personalized Surgical Planning
AI determines the ideal TM entry point and bypass dimensions.
Step 3 – Micro-Incision Entry
A tiny corneal incision enables precise angle access.
Step 4 – Lumen Micro-Bypass Creation
A micro-channel is created through the TM to open Schlemm’s canal.
Step 5 – Postoperative Monitoring
Follow-ups confirm outflow improvement and IOP stabilization.
Treatment Duration: 5–8 minutes per eye
Setting: Outpatient, same-day discharge
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops for 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid eye rubbing, strenuous activity, and swimming for several days.
- Wear protective sunglasses outdoors.
- Continue glaucoma medications until advised otherwise.
- Attend follow-up visits at Day 1, Week 1, Month 1, and Month 3.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3: Mild redness or hyphema; early pressure reduction begins.
Week 1: Vision stabilizes; channel remains patent.
Weeks 2–4: Strong IOP reduction; medication taper often begins.
1–3 Months: Long-term stability with enhanced drainage.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Significant improvement in aqueous outflow through the micro-bypass.
- Reduced reliance on long-term glaucoma medications.
- Minimal inflammation and fast healing.
- Stable IOP reduction over the long term.
Longevity
- Results typically last years, especially in mild-to-moderate glaucoma.
- Clean bypass creation reduces scarring risk.
- Repeatable or combinable with other MIGS for enhanced durability.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Advanced MIGS Expertise: Korean surgeons specialize in device-free trabecular bypass techniques.
- High-Resolution Imaging: OCT and digital gonioscopy ensure precision.
- AI-Enhanced Planning: Personalized bypass creation for optimal flow.
- Minimally Invasive Methods: Tiny incision, low trauma, rapid recovery.
- Superior Clinical Outcomes: Strong IOP reduction with excellent safety.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-calibrated micro-bypass geometry.
- OCT-guided real-time TM targeting.
- Digital fluid simulation to optimize channel design.
- Hybrid MIGS approaches (Lumen + canaloplasty / Lumen + goniotomy).
- Deep-learning IOP progression tracking for long-term monitoring.
These innovations make Lumen Trabecular Micro-Bypass in Korea one of the most precise, safe, and effective implant-free MIGS procedures available.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Lumen Micro-Bypass | ₩1,200,000 – ₩1,800,000 | ~$900 – $1,350 | Micro-bypass creation with basic imaging |
| Premium OCT-Guided Bypass Package | ₩2,000,000 – ₩3,200,000 | ~$1,500 – $2,400 | AI planning, OCT targeting, extended after-care |
| Hybrid MIGS Enhancement Program | ₩3,800,000 – ₩5,500,000+ | ~$2,800 – $4,200+ | Lumen bypass + supplemental MIGS (KDB, canaloplasty, ELT) |
Pricing varies based on surgeon expertise, technology platform, and combined procedures.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Renowned for precision-based trabecular MIGS and bypass techniques.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Leaders in OCT-guided angle surgery.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Experts in hybrid MIGS using device-free bypass methods.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Focuses on minimally traumatic trabecular modification.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Specialists in AI-enhanced micro-bypass planning.
