Treatment Overview
MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery) in Korea represents a new generation of glaucoma procedures designed to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) with minimal trauma, rapid recovery, and high safety. MIGS procedures enhance physiological outflow pathways through micro-stents, micro-incisions, ab-interno canal surgery, or laser-assisted approaches.
Korean ophthalmology centers are global frontrunners in MIGS innovation, utilizing advanced OCT-guided angle imaging, AI-based outflow resistance mapping, ultra-precise micro-instruments, and robot-assisted stabilization to offer exceptionally safe, effective glaucoma management.
MIGS is especially effective for patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma, and is often combined with cataract surgery for superior long-term outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Lower intraocular pressure by improving or bypassing the eye’s natural drainage system.
- Reduce dependence on long-term glaucoma medications.
- Slow or prevent progression of optic nerve damage.
- Provide a safer, less invasive alternative to trabeculectomy or tube shunt surgery.
Benefits
- Minimally Invasive: Micro-incisions with little tissue disruption.
- High Safety Profile: Lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
- Faster Recovery: Most patients return to normal activities quickly.
- Medication Reduction: Many patients reduce or eliminate drops.
- Customizable Options: Variety of MIGS procedures suited to individual anatomy.
- Ideal Pairing with Cataract Surgery: Enhanced outcomes when combined.
Ideal Candidates
MIGS in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).
- Individuals undergoing cataract surgery who desire improved IOP control.
- Patients intolerant of or non-compliant with long-term eye drops.
- Early-stage glaucoma patients wanting minimally invasive intervention.
- Individuals with pigmentary or pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (select MIGS types).
- Patients who wish to avoid more invasive glaucoma surgeries.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although MIGS is extremely safe, potential risks may include:
- Mild inflammation
- Transient IOP fluctuations
- Small hyphema
- Temporary blurred vision
- Stent malposition (rare)
- Scar tissue formation affecting outflow
Korean ophthalmology centers reduce risks with AI-calibrated planning, micro-precision surgical platforms, and advanced postoperative monitoring.
Types of MIGS Performed in Korea
Korea offers one of the most comprehensive ranges of MIGS procedures in Asia.
Trabecular Outflow MIGS
- iStent / iStent Inject
- Hydrus Microstent
- Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) Goniotomy
- 360° GATT (Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy)
- Trabectome Surgery
Suprachoroidal MIGS
- Suprachoroidal stent procedures (where available)
Subconjunctival MIGS
- XEN Gel Stent
Laser-Based MIGS / Angle Procedures
- Laser trabeculotomy
- MicroPulse TSCPC (in select cases)
- Jet Stream Trabeculoplasty (JST) (minimally invasive outflow enhancement)
Combined MIGS Approaches
- KDB + canaloplasty
- iStent + cataract surgery
- GATT + goniotomy
- Hybrid MIGS + SLT for extended control
Surgical Techniques
High-Resolution OCT-Guided Angle Imaging
Used to precisely map the drainage structures of the eye before surgery.
AI-Based Outflow Mapping
Identifies areas of highest resistance for targeted intervention.
Micro-Incision Access
1–2 mm incisions preserve corneal integrity and allow internal access to the angle.
Micro-Device Implantation or TM Removal
Depending on MIGS type, surgeons implant stents or remove obstructive trabecular meshwork.
Canal or Suprachoroidal Enhancement
Restores physiological pathways while minimizing tissue disruption.
Postoperative IOP Optimization
Medication adjustments and imaging ensure proper device positioning and flow.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Comprehensive Glaucoma Evaluation
Visual fields, OCT, gonioscopy, corneal thickness measurement, and IOP testing.
Step 2 – MIGS Selection & Planning
AI-guided analysis determines the ideal MIGS approach for each patient.
Step 3 – MIGS Procedure
Performed alone or combined with cataract surgery through micro-incision techniques.
Step 4 – Immediate Postoperative Care
Anti-inflammatory drops and IOP regulation.
Step 5 – Long-Term Monitoring
Regular follow-ups to confirm stable IOP, stent placement, and visual preservation.
Treatment Duration: 10–20 minutes (standalone)
Setting: Outpatient or ambulatory surgical center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Using anti-inflammatory drops for 1–4 weeks.
- Avoiding vigorous rubbing or pressure on the eye.
- Resuming normal activities quickly unless otherwise instructed.
- Continuing glaucoma medications as advised.
- Attending follow-up exams for IOP and implant evaluation.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild redness; vision begins to clear.
- Week 1: Noticeable IOP reduction; stabilization begins.
- Weeks 2–4: Improved outflow and clearer vision.
- Months 1–3: Maximum effect achieved; stent fully integrated.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- 20–40% reduction in intraocular pressure.
- Decrease or elimination of glaucoma medications.
- Preservation of natural drainage systems.
- Long-term stability with minimal side effects.
Longevity
- Results often last years, depending on MIGS type.
- Stents may remain effective indefinitely.
- Korea’s advanced imaging-guided techniques improve long-term success.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- World-class MIGS technology and surgical expertise.
- AI-assisted planning for precise procedure selection.
- Advanced OCT imaging for accurate angle mapping.
- Low complication rates due to refined Korean surgical protocols.
- Comprehensive glaucoma care centers offering all MIGS options.
Unique Korean Innovations
- Hybrid MIGS combinations tailored to patient anatomy.
- AI-enhanced IOP prediction modeling.
- Ultra-precise microblade and microstent placement systems.
- Real-time intraoperative OCT for superior accuracy.
- Customized MIGS + laser synergy protocols.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| MIGS Procedure Type | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trabecular MIGS (iStent / KDB / Trabectome) | ₩2,000,000 – ₩4,500,000 | ~$1,500 – $3,400 | Single MIGS with follow-up |
| MIGS + Cataract Surgery | ₩4,800,000 – ₩7,500,000 | ~$3,600 – $5,700 | Combined phaco + MIGS |
| XEN Gel Stent (Subconjunctival MIGS) | ₩4,500,000 – ₩7,000,000 | ~$3,400 – $5,300 | Implant + extended monitoring |
| Hybrid MIGS (Combination Procedures) | ₩5,500,000 – ₩9,000,000 | ~$4,100 – $6,800 | Multi-technique MIGS + imaging |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Leaders in MIGS and microstent implantation.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Experts in combined cataract + MIGS procedures.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Specialists in advanced trabecular MIGS.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – Known for real-time OCT-guided MIGS techniques.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-assisted MIGS planning and hybrid protocols.
