Treatment Overview
Non-Penetrating Trabeculectomy in Korea is a modern glaucoma procedure designed to reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by enhancing aqueous humor outflow without fully penetrating the anterior chamber. Unlike traditional trabeculectomy, this technique preserves the eye’s natural internal barrier, significantly reducing risks such as hypotony, infection, and sudden pressure drops.
Korean glaucoma specialists excel at this approach using deep scleral dissection, trabeculo-Descemet’s membrane preservation, OCT-guided surgical mapping, and AI-enhanced flow prediction. This allows for controlled, safe, and stable pressure reduction with faster healing and fewer complications.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Lower IOP by facilitating controlled outflow through natural filtration layers.
- Reduce complications associated with full-thickness trabeculectomy.
- Offer a safer surgical alternative for suitable glaucoma patients.
- Maintain stable long-term filtration without bleb-related issues.
Benefits
- Lower Complication Risk: Reduced chance of hypotony, infection, or bleb leaks.
- More Physiologic Drainage: Flow passes through natural tissue resistance.
- Faster Recovery: Less trauma and inflammation compared to penetrating surgery.
- Better Structural Stability: Maintains anterior chamber depth and shape.
- Lower Need for Postoperative Interventions: Fewer bleb adjustments or needling procedures.
- Ideal for Select Glaucoma Stages: Particularly safe for moderate disease.
Ideal Candidates
Non-Penetrating Trabeculectomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with open-angle glaucoma requiring surgical pressure reduction.
- Individuals seeking a safer alternative to full trabeculectomy.
- Patients with good angle anatomy and intact trabecular structures.
- Those with mild to moderate glaucoma not responding adequately to medication or laser therapy.
- Patients at higher risk of complications from penetrating surgery.
- Individuals with thin corneas or fragile ocular tissues.
Possible Risks & Complications
Although significantly safer than standard trabeculectomy, potential risks include:
- Incomplete IOP reduction in advanced disease
- Bleb formation (rare)
- Mild inflammation
- Minimal bleeding
- Scar formation reducing long-term success
- Possibility of conversion to penetrating trabeculectomy in rare cases
Korean surgeons minimize risks through precise dissection, OCT-guided monitoring, and postoperative anti-fibrotic control.
Types of Non-Penetrating Trabeculectomy in Korea
Deep Sclerectomy
Removes deep scleral layers to expose, but not penetrate, the trabeculo-Descemet’s membrane.
Viscocanalostomy-Assisted Non-Penetrating Technique
Injects viscoelastic to expand Schlemm’s canal and improve outflow.
Non-Penetrating Mini Trabeculectomy
Uses smaller incisions and minimal scleral removal.
Gel or Collagen Implant–Supported Technique
Implants maintain space and enhance long-term drainage.
Laser-Assisted Non-Penetrating Filtration
Laser used to refine the deep scleral bed for smoother flow.
Hybrid Non-Penetrating + MIGS
Combines minimal trabecular surgery with deep scleral dissection.
Surgical Techniques
AI-Based Structural Analysis
Predicts optimal dissection depth and ideal filtration zone.
Deep Scleral Flap Creation
A partial-thickness flap is created for controlled outflow.
Trabeculo-Descemet’s Window Preparation
A thin membrane is exposed, allowing smooth filtrative resistance.
Schlemm’s Canal Expansion (if applicable)
Viscoelastic injected to open natural drainage channels.
Implant Placement
Optional collagen/glycosaminoglycan devices maintain internal space.
Conjunctival Closure
Performed with tight, secure suturing for a stable outcome.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Detailed Diagnostic Evaluation
Includes OCT imaging, IOP testing, visual field analysis, and angle evaluation.
Step 2 – Customized Non-Penetrating Surgical Planning
Determines membrane thickness, dissection depth, and implant need.
Step 3 – Non-Penetrating Trabeculectomy
Performed under local anesthesia with minimal trauma.
Step 4 – Postoperative Monitoring
Includes anti-inflammatory drops, anti-scarring therapy if needed, and structural imaging.
Step 5 – Long-Term Follow-Up
Continuous monitoring ensures stable IOP and long-lasting outflow.
Treatment Duration: 25–40 minutes
Setting: Outpatient surgical center or hospital
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use all prescribed medications as directed.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes and strenuous activities.
- Use protective eyewear during sleep for the first week.
- Attend follow-up visits to ensure adequate flow through the filtration membrane.
- Report sudden pain or visual changes immediately.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Mild irritation; deep scleral bed stabilizes.
- Week 1: Flow through the Descemet’s window becomes established.
- Weeks 2–4: IOP reduction stabilizes; inflammation decreases.
- Months 1–3: Long-term filtration optimized.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- 20–40% reduction in IOP.
- Lower complication rates than penetrating trabeculectomy.
- Stable anterior chamber and reduced postoperative interventions.
- Improved quality of life with fewer adverse effects.
- Suitable long-term control for mild to moderate glaucoma.
Longevity
- Results often last 8–15+ years with proper care.
- Korean anti-scar protocols extend membrane function.
- Can be combined with additional procedures later if needed.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Global experts in non-penetrating glaucoma surgery.
- Advanced deep-scleral imaging ensuring perfect dissection.
- AI-driven surgical planning enhances safety and precision.
- Lower complication rates compared to global averages.
- Comprehensive postoperative care with long-term monitoring.
Unique Korean Innovations
- 4D OCT mapping of deep scleral layers.
- Micro-layer dissection techniques for ultra-thin membrane preservation.
- Collagen implant customization for natural flow enhancement.
- AI-based healing prediction for fibrosis control.
- Hybrid non-penetrating techniques combining ultra-safe design with strong efficacy.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Procedure Type | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Non-Penetrating Trabeculectomy | ₩3,500,000 – ₩5,500,000 | ~$2,650 – $4,150 | Deep scleral dissection + follow-up |
| Implant-Assisted Non-Penetrating Technique | ₩5,000,000 – ₩7,000,000 | ~$3,750 – $5,300 | Implant + extended monitoring |
| Hybrid Non-Penetrating + MIGS | ₩6,000,000 – ₩8,500,000 | ~$4,500 – $6,400 | Combination surgery + imaging |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul) – Leaders in non-penetrating filtration surgery.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul) – Specialists in deep scleral engineering.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Busan & Seoul) – Experts in implant-assisted non-penetrating techniques.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic – Renowned for 4D OCT-guided scleral mapping.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam) – Innovators in AI-supported non-penetrating glaucoma surgery.
