Treatment Overview
Non-Penetrating Glaucoma Surgery (NPGS) in Korea refers to a group of advanced surgical procedures that lower intraocular pressure (IOP) without fully entering the anterior chamber. Unlike traditional trabeculectomy, NPGS preserves the natural eye structures, significantly reducing the risk of complications such as hypotony, infection, and bleeding.
Korean glaucoma centers are internationally recognized for their expertise in deep sclerectomy, viscocanalostomy, and canal-based NPGS techniques, using OCT-guided tissue depth mapping, AI-modulated dissection planning, and minimally traumatic micro-instruments to ensure highly precise, safe, and long-lasting IOP control.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Lower intraocular pressure by enhancing natural filtration without fully penetrating the eye.
- Provide a safer alternative to trabeculectomy for patients with open-angle glaucoma.
- Preserve physiological outflow pathways and minimize complications.
- Reduce dependency on long-term glaucoma medications.
Benefits
- High Safety Profile: Avoids full penetration → fewer risks.
- Less Inflammation & Faster Healing: Tissue-sparing approach.
- Stable Long-Term IOP Reduction: Effective for many years.
- Lower Risk of Hypotony: Controlled outflow design.
- Improved Patient Comfort: Minimal irritation and faster vision recovery.
- Compatible With MIGS Enhancements: Can be combined with canaloplasty or goniotomy.
Ideal Candidates
Non-Penetrating Glaucoma Surgery in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with mild to moderate primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).
- Individuals seeking lower surgical risk than trabeculectomy.
- Patients intolerant of medications or with poor medication compliance.
- Those requiring stable, long-term pressure control without major surgery.
- Patients with early to intermediate optic nerve damage.
- Individuals needing a bleb-sparing or bleb-free approach.
Possible Risks & Complications
NPGS is extremely safe, but mild or temporary effects may include:
- Mild conjunctival swelling
- Temporary IOP fluctuations
- Minor bleeding under the scleral flap
- Transient blurred vision
- Rare failure of filtration membrane
Korean surgeons reduce risks using micron-level scleral dissection, anti-fibrotic modulation, and postoperative imaging to maintain membrane patency.
Types of Non-Penetrating Glaucoma Surgery in Korea
Deep Sclerectomy
Creates a thin trabeculo-Descemet membrane to allow controlled filtration.
Viscocanalostomy
Uses viscoelastic expansion to dilate Schlemm’s canal and create an outflow reservoir.
Canal-Based NPGS
Minimally invasive techniques to enhance trabecular and canal outflow without full penetration.
Scleral Implant-Enhanced NPGS
Implanting collagen or hyaluronic implants to maintain space and support filtration.
Combined NPGS + Canaloplasty
Used for stronger and more sustained pressure reduction.
Surgical Techniques
OCT-Guided Scleral Depth Mapping
Determines safe dissection depth and avoids chamber penetration.
Micro-Dissection of Scleral Layers
Creates a drainage space without entering the anterior chamber.
Trabeculo-Descemet Membrane Preservation
Allows controlled filtration through a natural membrane.
Canal Dilation With Viscoelastic
Restores physiological outflow pathways.
Scleral Spacer or Implant Placement
Maintains space and prevents collapse of the drainage region.
Postoperative Anti-Fibrotic Modulation
Reduces scarring and ensures long-term success.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Comprehensive Evaluation
Includes IOP testing, OCT, visual fields, and anterior segment imaging.
Step 2 – Procedure Planning
Surgeon selects the optimal NPGS technique based on anatomy and glaucoma severity.
Step 3 – Non-Penetrating Glaucoma Surgery
Performed through a scleral approach, sparing full entry into the anterior chamber.
Step 4 – Immediate Care
Anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring medications applied; IOP monitored.
Step 5 – Follow-Up Monitoring
Regular exams ensure membrane function and stable pressure.
Treatment Duration: 20–30 minutes
Setting: Outpatient or surgical center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use prescribed anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring drops.
- Avoid strenuous activities for 1–2 weeks.
- Protect the eye from trauma and water exposure.
- Continue glaucoma medications only if instructed.
- Attend follow-ups to ensure filtration membrane remains open.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild redness or swelling.
- Week 1: Vision and comfort improve significantly.
- Weeks 2–4: Stable IOP reduction; membrane functioning well.
- Months 1–3: Long-term filtration pathway fully established.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- 25–40% reduction in intraocular pressure.
- Reduced dependency on glaucoma medications.
- Smooth, controlled aqueous outflow without a full surgical bleb.
- Greater patient comfort and reduced risk of complications.
Longevity
- Results typically last 5–10 years or longer.
- Longevity improved with implants and anti-scarring treatments.
- Repeatable or convertible to full surgery if needed.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Extensive expertise in advanced NPGS techniques.
- AI-enhanced planning for tissue depth and flow modeling.
- High-resolution imaging ensures precise dissection and safety.
- Lower complication rates due to sophisticated Korean surgical training.
- Integration of MIGS, NPGS, and laser therapy for comprehensive glaucoma care.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-based scleral thickness mapping for precision NPGS.
- Hybrid NPGS + MIGS models for enhanced long-term success.
- OCT-guided membrane thickness monitoring.
- Anti-fibrotic controlled-release implants.
- Predictive algorithms for IOP stability after NPGS.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Procedure Type | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deep Sclerectomy | ₩2,500,000 – ₩4,000,000 | ~$1,900 – $3,000 | Surgery + follow-up |
| Viscocanalostomy | ₩3,000,000 – ₩5,000,000 | ~$2,300 – $3,750 | Canal dilation + extended care |
| Implant-Assisted NPGS | ₩4,000,000 – ₩6,500,000 | ~$3,000 – $4,900 | Spacer/implant + imaging |
| Hybrid NPGS + MIGS | ₩5,500,000 – ₩8,000,000 | ~$4,150 – $6,000 | Combination therapy |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Leaders in deep sclerectomy and NPGS innovations.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Specialists in viscocanalostomy and canal-based surgery.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Experts in implant-assisted non-penetrating glaucoma procedures.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – Known for OCT-guided surgical precision.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-driven NPGS planning.
