Treatment Overview
MicroPulse Transscleral Cyclophotocoagulation (MicroPulse TSCPC) in Korea is an advanced, minimally destructive laser procedure used to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) in patients with various forms of glaucoma. Unlike traditional continuous-wave cyclophotocoagulation, MicroPulse TSCPC delivers laser energy in short, repetitive bursts (micro-pulses), allowing tissue to cool between pulses and dramatically reducing collateral damage.
Korean glaucoma centers are global leaders in MicroPulse technology, using OCT-guided laser positioning, AI-calibrated energy modulation, and anatomy-based personalized treatment patterns to achieve safe, effective, and long-lasting pressure reduction for patients with both refractory and earlier-stage glaucoma.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reduce aqueous humor production by targeting the ciliary body.
- Lower IOP in patients who have uncontrolled glaucoma despite medications or prior surgeries.
- Provide a safer alternative to traditional continuous-wave cyclophotocoagulation.
- Treat a wide range of glaucoma types, including refractory, pediatric, and secondary glaucoma.
Benefits
- Non-Destructive: MicroPulse mode protects surrounding tissue.
- High Safety Profile: Much lower risk of inflammation and hypotony.
- Versatile: Suitable for mild, moderate, and severe glaucoma.
- Repeatable: Can be safely performed multiple times.
- Quick Procedure: Typically completed in 5–10 minutes.
- Minimal Discomfort: Performed under local or topical anesthesia.
- Fast Recovery: Faster visual stabilization compared to traditional CPC.
Ideal Candidates
MicroPulse TSCPC in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with uncontrolled glaucoma despite medication, SLT, MIGS, or surgery.
- Individuals with advanced or refractory glaucoma.
- Patients unsuitable for incisional surgery.
- Individuals with secondary glaucoma, such as uveitic or neovascular.
- Those requiring a safer cycloablative method with minimal collateral damage.
- Pediatric glaucoma patients who need gentle, repeatable therapy.
Possible Risks & Complications
MicroPulse TSCPC is among the safest cycloablative treatments, but mild effects may include:
- Temporary eye soreness
- Mild inflammation
- Transient IOP fluctuations
- Light sensitivity
- Rare prolonged hypotony
- Very rare vision changes
Korean ophthalmologists minimize risks through precise power titration, thermal-safe MicroPulse patterns, and post-laser anti-inflammatory protocols.
Types of MicroPulse TSCPC Used in Korea
Standard MicroPulse TSCPC
The most common approach using a sweeping laser technique along the limbus.
Swept-Motion 360° Treatment
Full circumferential treatment for maximal pressure reduction.
Segmental MicroPulse TSCPC
Targets the most active ciliary processes based on imaging.
High-Dose MicroPulse TSCPC (HD-TSCPC)
For severe and refractory glaucoma requiring stronger effect.
Hybrid MicroPulse + SLT Protocols
Used in Korean clinics to extend the longevity of pressure control.
Surgical Techniques
OCT-Guided Ciliary Body Localization
Ensures accurate targeting of the ciliary processes behind the sclera.
AI-Calibrated Energy Modulation
Automatically adjusts laser power and duty cycle for optimal tissue safety.
Sweeping Transscleral Technique
Laser probe is passed smoothly along the limbus to deliver MicroPulse energy.
Thermal Control Algorithm
Allows tissue cooling during micro-pulses to prevent damage.
Post-Laser IOP Optimization
Anti-inflammatory drops and IOP checks ensure safe outcomes.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Comprehensive Evaluation
IOP testing, anterior segment imaging, gonioscopy, and visual field analysis.
Step 2 – Customized Planning
Determines laser power, duty cycle, and treatment arc based on disease severity.
Step 3 – MicroPulse TSCPC Procedure
Laser probe applied transsclerally in sweeping movements.
Step 4 – Immediate Postoperative Care
Anti-inflammatory medication given; IOP monitored for short-term spikes.
Step 5 – Follow-Up Monitoring
IOP evaluated at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and periodically thereafter.
Treatment Duration: 5–10 minutes
Setting: Outpatient laser or minor procedure suite
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use anti-inflammatory eye drops for 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid heavy exercise and eye rubbing.
- Continue glaucoma medications unless advised otherwise.
- Protect the eyes from bright light.
- Attend all follow-up appointments.
Recovery Timeline
- Day 1: Mild irritation; early IOP reduction may begin.
- Week 1: More noticeable pressure drop and reduced inflammation.
- Weeks 2–4: Maximum pressure-lowering effect typically achieved.
- Months 1–6: Long-term stabilization with steady IOP control.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- 25–45% reduction in intraocular pressure in many patients.
- Significant reduction in medication burden.
- Effective even for severe or refractory glaucoma.
- Gentle, controlled treatment with preserved ocular structures.
Longevity
- Results typically last 1–4 years, depending on glaucoma severity.
- Procedure is safe to repeat if pressure rises again.
- Korean imaging-guided energy optimization improves treatment durability.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- World leaders in MicroPulse technology and cyclophotocoagulation.
- AI-guided laser power control provides exceptional safety.
- OCT-based ciliary body mapping ensures precise targeting.
- Refined Korean protocols minimize inflammation and tissue damage.
- High success rates for early, moderate, and advanced glaucoma.
- Comprehensive glaucoma programs offering multiple combination options.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-enhanced MicroPulse duty cycle customization.
- Hybrid MicroPulse + SLT and MicroPulse + MIGS protocols.
- Thermal monitoring for tissue-safe laser delivery.
- Personalized ciliary body targeting based on imaging.
- Predictive modeling for IOP stability and long-term outcomes.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard MicroPulse TSCPC | ₩500,000 – ₩900,000 | ~$380 – $680 | MicroPulse therapy + follow-up |
| High-Dose MicroPulse TSCPC | ₩900,000 – ₩1,600,000 | ~$680 – $1,200 | HD protocol + extended monitoring |
| Combination MicroPulse + SLT | ₩1,200,000 – ₩2,000,000 | ~$900 – $1,520 | Dual laser program for advanced cases |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Leaders in MicroPulse and advanced CPC treatments.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Experts in MicroPulse protocols for refractory glaucoma.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Specialized in imaging-guided cyclophotocoagulation.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – Known for OCT-assisted MicroPulse targeting.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-calibrated MicroPulse energy delivery.
