Treatment Overview
Macular Photocoagulation Therapy (MPT) is a laser-based retinal procedure used to treat wet Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), diabetic macular edema (DME), and other vascular retinal diseases. The therapy involves precisely applying laser energy to abnormal retinal blood vessels, sealing leaks, reducing macular swelling, and preventing further vision loss. MPT can be used alone or in combination with anti-VEGF injections for optimized outcomes.
In Korea, macular photocoagulation therapy is performed using advanced laser systems and AI-assisted imaging guidance:
- High-resolution fundus imaging and OCT to map abnormal vessels and leakage sites
- Laser planning software for precise targeting of macular lesions
- Micro-pulse and grid laser systems to minimize collateral retinal damage
- AI-assisted energy calibration for safe and effective treatment
- Combination protocols with anti-VEGF therapy or steroid implants if required
- Real-time fundus visualization for accurate laser delivery
- Outpatient procedure with minimal downtime
MPT in Korea emphasizes precision, safety, and preservation of surrounding retinal tissue.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Seal leaking blood vessels in wet AMD or DME
- Reduce macular edema and stabilize vision
- Prevent progression of neovascular lesions
- Complement anti-VEGF therapy or intravitreal steroid injections
- Minimize further damage to central vision
Benefits
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
- Precise targeting reduces risk of collateral retinal injury
- Rapid stabilization of macular edema in many cases
- Can be combined with other therapies for resistant cases
- AI-assisted planning improves accuracy and outcomes
- Short procedure time with quick recovery
Ideal Candidates
Macular Photocoagulation Therapy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with focal or localized neovascular AMD
- Individuals with diabetic macular edema requiring laser stabilization
- Patients with persistent leakage not fully controlled by anti-VEGF alone
- Those seeking adjunct therapy to reduce injection frequency
- Individuals with well-mapped lesions suitable for laser treatment
Possible Risks & Complications
Minor / Transient Issues
- Mild eye discomfort or irritation
- Temporary blurred vision or scotomas
- Slight inflammation at the treated site
Rare / Serious Risks
- Permanent central scotomas if laser applied too close to fovea
- Accidental retinal burns or hemorrhage
- Rare visual acuity loss due to collateral tissue damage
- Macular or retinal scarring in improper cases
How Korean Clinics Minimize Risks
- Pre-procedure OCT and fundus mapping to guide treatment
- AI-assisted laser targeting and energy calibration
- Experienced retinal surgeons specializing in precision laser therapy
- Micro-pulse or subthreshold lasers to protect surrounding tissue
- Post-procedure monitoring for early detection of complications
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Assess retinal thickness and edema
- Fluorescein Angiography (FA) – Map leaking vessels and CNV
- OCT-Angiography (OCT-A) – Visualize microvascular networks
- Anti-VEGF Therapy – Combined treatment for wet AMD
- Dexamethasone or Steroid Implants – Adjunct for persistent macular edema
- Fundus Photography – Baseline and follow-up documentation
- AI-assisted laser planning – Ensures precise energy delivery
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive eye exam including visual acuity and intraocular pressure
- Fundus imaging, OCT, and FA to map abnormal vessels
- AI-assisted treatment planning for laser placement and energy
- Explanation of procedure, benefits, and potential risks
Step 2 – Laser Procedure
- Topical anesthesia applied to the eye
- Patient positioned with fundus lens for laser delivery
- Laser applied to abnormal vessels using grid, focal, or micro-pulse pattern
- Real-time monitoring of retinal response
- Optional combination with anti-VEGF injection if indicated
Step 3 – Postoperative Follow-Up
- Immediate evaluation for adverse effects
- Follow-up imaging with OCT and fundus photography
- Additional laser or injection sessions scheduled if needed
- Patient advised on eye care and monitoring of vision changes
Duration: 15–45 minutes
Setting: Outpatient laser treatment suite
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Mild irritation or blurred vision is normal for a few hours
- Avoid rubbing eyes and strenuous activity for 24–48 hours
- Use prescribed anti-inflammatory or antibiotic drops if needed
- Attend follow-up imaging and consultations
- Report sudden vision changes, flashes, or floaters immediately
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision and discomfort
- 24–48 Hours: Stabilization of vision and reduction of edema
- 1–2 Weeks: Healing of laser-treated areas
- Ongoing: Follow-up imaging to assess treatment efficacy and recurrence
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Reduction in macular edema and leakage
- Stabilization or slight improvement in visual acuity
- Complementary effect when combined with anti-VEGF therapy
- Prevention of further progression of focal neovascular lesions
Longevity
- Effects last several months depending on disease activity
- Repeat treatments may be necessary for recurrent leakage
- Long-term monitoring recommended to prevent vision loss
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Experienced retinal surgeons skilled in precision laser therapy
- Advanced laser systems with micro-pulse and subthreshold capabilities
- AI-assisted laser planning for safe and effective treatment
- Integration with anti-VEGF and steroid therapies
- English-friendly clinics with structured follow-up programs
- Comprehensive multimodal imaging for accurate treatment guidance
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted laser energy calibration and targeting
- Micro-pulse and grid laser protocols to minimize collateral damage
- Integration with OCT and FA for real-time imaging feedback
- Combined therapy packages with anti-VEGF or steroid implants
- Personalized follow-up and monitoring dashboards
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Macular Photocoagulation Session | ₩400,000 – ₩800,000 | ~$305 – $615 | Laser treatment + imaging + consultation |
| Combination Therapy Package (Laser + Anti-VEGF) | ₩800,000 – ₩1,800,000 | ~$615 – $1,385 | Laser + injection + OCT + FA + follow-up |
| Follow-Up Imaging & Monitoring | ₩200,000 – ₩500,000 | ~$150 – $385 | OCT + fundus imaging + specialist review |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Kim’s Eye Hospital Retina Center (Seoul)
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Retina Clinic
- Seoul National University Hospital Ophthalmology Center
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Gangnam)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
