Treatment Overview
Macular Edema Vitrectomy in Korea is a specialized microsurgical procedure aimed at reducing swelling in the macula caused by diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, epiretinal membranes, or other vitreoretinal disorders. The surgery involves pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) to remove the vitreous gel, relieve traction on the macula, and facilitate the absorption of fluid. It is often combined with internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling, laser photocoagulation, or pharmacologic injections to maximize visual recovery.
Korea is internationally recognized for advanced macular edema vitrectomy programs that integrate:
- Microincision vitrectomy surgery (25G/27G) for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for precise assessment of macular thickness and edema
- ILM peeling to relieve traction and reduce recurrence
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized macular management
- Combination with laser photocoagulation or anti-VEGF injections if needed
- Rapid outpatient or short-stay surgical protocols
This approach ensures effective reduction of macular swelling, improved central vision, and restoration of retinal anatomy.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reduce macular edema and retinal swelling
- Relieve vitreomacular traction
- Improve central visual acuity and visual function
- Prevent progression of macular damage or vision loss
- Complement other macular procedures such as ILM peeling or laser photocoagulation
Benefits
- Minimally invasive, high-precision microsurgical technique
- Intraoperative OCT ensures accurate macular assessment
- Short recovery period and improved visual outcomes
- Can be combined with ILM peeling, laser, or anti-VEGF therapy
- Reduced risk of recurrence of macular edema
Ideal Candidates
Macular Edema Vitrectomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with macular edema due to diabetic retinopathy or retinal vein occlusion
- Individuals with epiretinal membranes causing macular swelling
- Eyes with persistent or tractional macular edema unresponsive to medical therapy
- Patients undergoing ILM peeling or other adjunctive macular procedures
- Individuals seeking improved central vision and reduction of distortion
Possible Risks & Complications
Common/Moderate Risks
- Temporary blurred or fluctuating vision
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Minor retinal edema
Rare/Serious Risks
- Retinal tear or detachment
- Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection)
- Cataract progression in phakic patients
- Persistent macular edema
- Vision loss in severe cases
Korean specialists minimize risks through:
- Microincision vitrectomy (25G/27G) for minimal trauma
- OCT-guided macular surgery for precise removal of traction
- Careful intraoperative and postoperative monitoring
- Adjunctive laser or pharmacologic therapy when indicated
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Core surgical technique
- Internal Limiting Membrane (ILM) Peeling – Relieves traction
- Intraoperative OCT – Real-time assessment of macular edema
- Laser Photocoagulation – Reduces vascular leakage
- Anti-VEGF Therapy – Adjunctive treatment to reduce edema
- Cataract Surgery – Can be combined if necessary
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive ophthalmologic exam including OCT, fundus photography, and visual acuity testing
- Measurement and mapping of macular edema and vitreomacular traction
- Planning for vitrectomy, ILM peeling, laser, and adjunctive therapy
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Decide vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Determine need for ILM peeling or combined cataract surgery
- Plan adjunctive laser or pharmacologic interventions
Step 3 – Macular Edema Vitrectomy
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision vitrectomy to remove vitreous traction
- ILM peeling if required to relieve traction
- Apply laser photocoagulation or anti-VEGF therapy if indicated
- Combine with cataract surgery if necessary
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- OCT imaging to confirm reduction in macular edema
- Visual acuity and intraocular pressure monitoring
- Prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops
Step 5 – Follow-Up & Maintenance
- Regular OCT and fundus exams
- Additional interventions only if complications or persistent edema occur
Duration: 60–120 minutes depending on complexity
Setting: Advanced vitreoretinal surgery center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
- Follow prescribed medications strictly
- Attend all scheduled postoperative visits
- Maintain head positioning if tamponade was used
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision
- 1–2 Weeks: Inflammation subsides; initial visual improvement
- 4–6 Weeks: OCT confirms reduction of macular edema
- Long-Term: Periodic monitoring ensures sustained macular health
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Reduction or resolution of macular edema
- Improved central visual acuity
- Restoration of macular anatomy
- Prevention of further macular damage
Longevity
- Long-term stability of macular structure
- Lifelong OCT monitoring recommended for high-risk patients
- Combined surgical and pharmacologic management ensures durable outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced vitreoretinal surgeons specializing in macular edema
- Microincision 25G/27G vitrectomy for minimal trauma
- OCT-guided macular surgery for precise edema reduction
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized macular care
- Access to combination procedures with laser, anti-VEGF, or cataract surgery
- High success rates with rapid outpatient or short-stay protocols
Unique Korean Innovations
- OCT-assisted macular edema vitrectomy
- Microforceps-assisted precision ILM peeling
- AI-assisted surgical planning for optimal macular outcomes
- Integration with anti-VEGF and laser therapy for comprehensive treatment
- Personalized postoperative monitoring protocols
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Macular Edema Vitrectomy | ₩5,500,000 – ₩8,500,000 | ~$4,300 – $6,600 | 25G/27G vitrectomy + macular edema management + OCT follow-up |
| Macular Edema + ILM Peeling | ₩7,000,000 – ₩10,000,000 | ~$5,500 – $7,700 | Vitrectomy + ILM peeling + OCT monitoring |
| Combined Procedure (Macular Edema Surgery + Cataract) | ₩8,500,000 – ₩12,500,000 | ~$6,600 – $9,600 | Vitrectomy + macular edema management + cataract surgery + follow-up |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
