Treatment Overview
Micro-Pulse Laser Treatment for Macular Edema in Korea is an advanced, non-damaging retinal laser therapy designed to treat macular edema caused by diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, or wet AMD. Unlike conventional laser photocoagulation, MPLT uses ultra-short, repetitive laser pulses to stimulate retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) repair and fluid resorption without causing visible burns or collateral retinal damage.
In Korea, MPLT is performed using state-of-the-art laser systems, AI-guided planning, and high-resolution imaging:
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and OCT-Angiography (OCT-A) for mapping edema and microvascular changes
- Micro-pulse laser systems delivering precise subthreshold energy to affected areas
- AI-assisted energy calibration and pattern selection for optimal safety and efficacy
- Non-contact or contact delivery with real-time fundus monitoring
- Optional combination with anti-VEGF injections or steroid implants for refractory cases
- Digital tracking of macular thickness and response to treatment
- Outpatient procedure with minimal discomfort and rapid recovery
MPLT in Korea emphasizes safety, precision, and preservation of central vision, making it ideal for chronic or sensitive macular edema cases.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reduce macular edema and retinal swelling
- Stimulate RPE function for fluid reabsorption
- Preserve central vision without retinal scarring
- Complement anti-VEGF or steroid therapy if needed
- Prevent progression of vision loss in macular edema
- Minimize laser-related retinal damage compared to conventional photocoagulation
Benefits
- Minimally invasive, outpatient procedure
- Non-visible laser burns; preserves retinal structure
- Can be repeated safely for chronic or recurrent edema
- Rapid stabilization or improvement in macular thickness
- AI-assisted planning ensures precise targeting
- Enhances functional visual outcomes and quality of life
- Short procedure with minimal discomfort
Ideal Candidates
Micro-Pulse Laser Treatment for Macular Edema in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with diabetic macular edema (DME)
- Individuals with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) associated edema
- Patients with wet AMD with persistent or recurrent edema
- Those seeking non-destructive laser therapy
- Individuals combining laser with anti-VEGF or steroid injections
- Patients requiring repeated treatment without cumulative retinal damage
Possible Risks & Complications
Minor / Transient Issues
- Mild ocular discomfort or photophobia
- Temporary blurred vision for a few hours
- Mild inflammation at the treatment site
Rare / Serious Risks
- Minimal risk due to subthreshold energy delivery
- Rare inadvertent retinal burn if settings are incorrect
- Very rare allergic reaction to topical anesthesia
- Minimal risk of edema worsening, typically temporary
How Korean Clinics Minimize Risks
- AI-assisted laser energy calibration and pattern selection
- Real-time OCT/OCT-A guidance for precise treatment
- Experienced retinal specialists trained in micro-pulse techniques
- Optional combination therapy for refractory or severe edema
- Post-procedure OCT follow-ups to detect early complications
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Assess macular thickness and fluid
- OCT-Angiography (OCT-A) – Visualize microvascular changes
- Fundus Photography – Baseline and follow-up documentation
- Anti-VEGF Therapy – Combined treatment for wet AMD or DME
- Intravitreal Steroids or Implants – For inflammatory or resistant edema
- AI-assisted treatment planning – Optimize laser parameters and patterns
- Conventional Laser Photocoagulation – For cases unsuitable for MPLT
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive eye exam including visual acuity and intraocular pressure
- OCT and OCT-A to map edema and assess retinal thickness
- AI-assisted planning for laser energy, pulse duration, and treatment pattern
- Explanation of procedure, risks, and expected outcomes
Step 2 – Micro-Pulse Laser Procedure
- Topical anesthesia applied
- Patient positioned at laser delivery device (contact or non-contact)
- Micro-pulse laser applied in subthreshold pattern across edematous retina
- Real-time monitoring of retinal response
- Optional combination with anti-VEGF injection if indicated
Step 3 – Postoperative Follow-Up
- Immediate visual assessment after procedure
- OCT imaging at 1–4 weeks to evaluate response
- Follow-up treatment sessions scheduled if needed
- Patient advised on eye care and monitoring for vision changes
Duration: 15–45 minutes
Setting: Outpatient retinal laser suite
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Mild blurred vision or light sensitivity may occur temporarily
- Avoid rubbing eyes and strenuous activity for 24 hours
- Use prescribed anti-inflammatory drops if recommended
- Attend follow-up OCT and consultation appointments
- Report sudden vision changes, flashes, or floaters immediately
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision, typically resolves in hours
- 24–48 Hours: Retinal response begins; edema may gradually decrease
- 1–4 Weeks: Maximal effect on macular thickness observed
- Ongoing: Additional sessions if edema persists or recurs
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Significant reduction in macular edema
- Stabilization or improvement in visual acuity
- Preservation of central vision without retinal scarring
- Effective adjunct to anti-VEGF or steroid therapy
- Suitable for repeated treatment in chronic cases
Longevity
- Effects last several months; repeat treatments may be necessary
- Safe for multiple sessions due to subthreshold energy delivery
- Long-term monitoring ensures sustained macular health
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Experienced retinal specialists in micro-pulse laser therapy
- Advanced AI-assisted laser systems for precision and safety
- Integration with OCT, OCT-A, and multimodal imaging
- Non-destructive laser technique suitable for chronic or sensitive cases
- Combination therapy protocols for resistant macular edema
- English-friendly clinics with structured follow-up programs
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted micro-pulse laser pattern and energy calibration
- Subthreshold therapy preserving central vision
- Real-time OCT-guided treatment monitoring
- Integration with anti-VEGF or steroid therapy for optimized results
- Digital dashboards for tracking macular thickness and edema response
- Personalized follow-up plans and repeat treatment protocols
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Micro-Pulse Laser Session | ₩400,000 – ₩800,000 | ~$305 – $615 | Laser treatment + OCT + consultation |
| Combination Therapy (MPLT + Anti-VEGF) | ₩800,000 – ₩1,800,000 | ~$615 – $1,385 | Laser + injection + OCT + 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)
