Treatment Overview
Macular Pigment Density Evaluation is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure used to measure the concentration of macular pigments (lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin) in the central retina. These pigments play a critical role in protecting the retina from blue light and oxidative stress, reducing the risk of Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), and supporting overall visual performance.
In Korea, MPD evaluation is performed using advanced imaging technologies and AI-assisted analysis:
- Heterochromatic flicker photometry (HFP) or fundus reflectometry for accurate pigment quantification
- High-resolution retinal imaging for precise macular mapping
- Widefield and foveal analysis to assess central and parafoveal pigment distribution
- AI-assisted data interpretation to provide individualized macular health reports
- Integration with OCT and FAF imaging for comprehensive retinal assessment
- Digital tracking platforms for longitudinal monitoring and dietary or supplement guidance
MPD evaluation in Korea allows early detection of reduced macular pigment, identification of high-risk individuals for AMD, and personalized strategies to improve retinal health.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Quantify macular pigment concentration and distribution
- Identify individuals at risk of AMD or macular degeneration progression
- Monitor the effects of dietary supplementation or lifestyle changes
- Guide personalized interventions for retinal protection
- Support preventive strategies in early or intermediate AMD
- Track macular pigment changes over time
Benefits
- Non-invasive, safe, and quick procedure
- Provides objective measurement of retinal protective pigments
- Early detection of macular vulnerability before vision loss
- AI-assisted analysis improves diagnostic accuracy
- Enables personalized nutritional or lifestyle recommendations
- Integrates with OCT and FAF for a full macular health profile
- Useful for long-term monitoring of at-risk patients
Ideal Candidates
Macular Pigment Density Evaluation in Korea is ideal for:
- Individuals with family history or early signs of AMD
- Patients with reduced central vision or night vision issues
- Those taking lutein, zeaxanthin, or meso-zeaxanthin supplements
- Individuals seeking preventive retinal health evaluation
- Patients participating in research or longitudinal studies of AMD
- Those requiring baseline macular pigment assessment before therapy
Possible Risks & Complications
Minor / Transient Issues
- Mild eye fatigue from fixation on targets
- Temporary glare during imaging
- Slight discomfort if pupil dilation is used
Rare / Serious Risks
- Extremely rare adverse reaction to pupil dilation drops (if used)
- No systemic or invasive risks, as MPD evaluation is non-contact
How Korean Clinics Minimize Risks
- Use of non-invasive imaging and measurement technologies
- Optional pupil dilation only when necessary
- Experienced ophthalmic technicians and retinal specialists
- AI-assisted analysis to minimize repeated testing
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Evaluate retinal layers and structural integrity
- Fundus Autofluorescence (FAF) – Assess RPE health and macular atrophy
- Fluorescein Angiography (FA) – Detect vascular abnormalities if needed
- Dietary & Supplementation Guidance – Optimize lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin intake
- Low-Vision Rehabilitation – For patients with early visual impairment
- Genetic and Risk Factor Assessment – Personalized AMD risk evaluation
- AI-assisted longitudinal monitoring – Track macular pigment changes over time
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Pre-Evaluation Assessment
- Comprehensive eye exam including visual acuity and intraocular pressure
- Patient history including diet, supplements, and AMD risk factors
- Explanation of procedure, purpose, and expected outcomes
Step 2 – MPD Measurement Procedure
- Patient positioned for fundus reflectometry or heterochromatic flicker photometry
- Series of non-invasive measurements taken across macula and fovea
- Optional pupil dilation for enhanced image quality
- AI-assisted analysis provides quantitative macular pigment data
- Integration with OCT and FAF for comprehensive macular assessment
Step 3 – Post-Evaluation Review
- Specialist review of results and macular pigment density report
- Personalized recommendations for supplementation or lifestyle modification
- Scheduling follow-up assessments if monitoring over time is indicated
Duration: 15–30 minutes
Setting: Outpatient retinal or ophthalmology clinic
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- No recovery needed; procedure is non-invasive
- Resume normal activities immediately
- Follow dietary or supplement recommendations if prescribed
- Schedule follow-up imaging if indicated
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Full visual function after procedure
- Ongoing: Periodic monitoring as recommended by retinal specialist
- Long-term: Track pigment changes and retinal health over months or years
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Quantitative measurement of macular pigment density
- Early identification of individuals at risk for AMD
- Personalized guidance for dietary supplementation
- Baseline for monitoring longitudinal changes in macular health
Longevity
- Safe for repeated measurements for long-term monitoring
- Provides objective data to guide preventive strategies
- Integration with lifestyle and clinical interventions improves retinal protection
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Experienced retina specialists with expertise in preventive AMD care
- Advanced imaging devices for non-invasive macular pigment assessment
- AI-assisted data interpretation for accuracy and personalized recommendations
- Integration with OCT, FAF, and multimodal imaging
- English-friendly clinics with structured follow-up programs
- Personalized preventive care combining supplements, lifestyle, and imaging
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted macular pigment mapping and longitudinal tracking
- Widefield and foveal pigment density analysis
- Digital dashboards for preventive AMD management
- Integration with OCT/FAF for comprehensive macular evaluation
- Personalized supplement and dietary optimization plans
- Preventive retinal health programs tailored to high-risk patients
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single MPD Evaluation | ₩200,000 – ₩400,000 | ~$150 – $305 | Measurement + AI analysis + consultation |
| Comprehensive Macular Health Assessment | ₩500,000 – ₩900,000 | ~$380 – $700 | MPD + OCT + FAF + dietary guidance |
| Annual Monitoring Program | ₩800,000 – ₩1,500,000 | ~$615 – $1,150 | 2–3 MPD sessions + multimodal imaging + follow-up |
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)
