Treatment Overview
Panretinal Photocoagulation Laser Treatment in Korea is a laser procedure aimed at treating proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and other ischemic retinal disorders by preventing abnormal neovascularization. PRP works by delivering controlled laser burns to the peripheral retina, reducing oxygen demand and decreasing vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production, which in turn prevents vitreous hemorrhage and tractional retinal detachment.
Korea is internationally recognized for its advanced PRP programs, featuring:
- High-precision, digital retinal laser systems for consistent energy delivery
- Widefield laser capabilities to efficiently cover peripheral retina
- OCT and fundus imaging-guided treatment planning
- AI-assisted mapping of ischemic zones and neovascular areas
- Combination protocols with intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure with rapid recovery
This procedure is highly effective in preventing vision-threatening complications and stabilizing retinal disease.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Treat proliferative diabetic retinopathy and retinal ischemia
- Prevent neovascularization and vitreous hemorrhage
- Reduce risk of tractional retinal detachment
- Stabilize high-risk retinal conditions in diabetic or ischemic patients
- Complement anti-VEGF or intravitreal corticosteroid therapy
- Preserve central vision while controlling peripheral retinal disease
Benefits
- Minimally invasive outpatient procedure
- Precise laser delivery guided by imaging
- Reduces risk of severe vision loss from PDR
- Rapid recovery with minimal discomfort
- Can be combined with anti-VEGF therapy for enhanced results
- Long-term stabilization of retinal pathology
- Low complication rate with experienced Korean retinal specialists
Ideal Candidates
PRP in Korea is recommended for:
- Patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR)
- Individuals with retinal ischemia or extensive non-perfusion
- Patients at risk of vitreous hemorrhage or tractional retinal detachment
- High-risk diabetic patients with neovascularization detected on OCT, FA, or OCTA
- Individuals requiring combination therapy with intravitreal injections
Possible Risks & Complications
PRP is generally safe, but potential risks include:
Common/Moderate Risks
- Mild discomfort or burning sensation during treatment
- Temporary blurred vision
- Peripheral visual field reduction
- Mild retinal edema or inflammation
Rare/Serious Risks
- Over-treatment causing central vision impairment
- Exacerbation of macular edema
- Rare vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment
Korean clinics minimize risks with:
- AI-assisted mapping and OCT-guided laser planning
- Widefield imaging for accurate coverage
- Experienced retinal specialists performing the procedure
- Post-laser OCT and fundus monitoring
Related Treatment Techniques
- Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Therapy – Often combined for neovascular regression
- Intravitreal Corticosteroid Therapy – For associated macular edema
- Focal or Grid Laser Therapy – For macular edema in non-central areas
- OCT & OCTA Monitoring – Guides laser treatment and follow-up
- Low-Vision Rehabilitation – Supports functional vision in chronic retinal disease
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Pre-Treatment Assessment
- Comprehensive eye examination
- OCT, FA, or OCTA to evaluate ischemic areas and neovascularization
- Visual acuity and intraocular pressure measurement
Step 2 – Laser Planning
- Identify peripheral ischemic retina
- Plan laser pattern, spot size, power, and session schedule
- Determine if adjunct anti-VEGF therapy is needed
Step 3 – PRP Laser Procedure
- Local anesthesia with topical eye drops
- Laser applied to peripheral retina in multiple sessions if necessary
- Real-time imaging ensures adequate coverage and safety
Step 4 – Post-Treatment Monitoring
- Fundus examination to confirm treatment effect
- OCT imaging to monitor retinal thickness and macular status
- Anti-inflammatory or protective drops prescribed as needed
Step 5 – Follow-Up & Maintenance
- Regular retinal exams to monitor neovascular regression
- Additional laser sessions if residual ischemic areas are present
- Long-term OCT/OCTA follow-up to detect new neovascularization
Duration: 30–60 minutes per session
Setting: Advanced retinal clinic or ophthalmology center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid rubbing the eyes for 24–48 hours
- Use prescribed anti-inflammatory drops
- Monitor for sudden changes in vision or new floaters
- Attend scheduled follow-up visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision or discomfort
- 1–2 Weeks: Peripheral visual field adjusts; regression of neovascularization begins
- 1–3 Months: OCT/OCTA confirms treatment effectiveness
- Long-Term: Periodic follow-up ensures retinal stabilization
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Regression of retinal neovascularization
- Reduced risk of vitreous hemorrhage and tractional retinal detachment
- Preservation of central vision
- Long-term stabilization of proliferative retinal disease
Longevity
- Laser effects are permanent in treated areas
- Serial follow-up ensures early detection of new ischemic areas
- Combination with anti-VEGF therapy enhances long-term outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced retinal specialists in PRP
- State-of-the-art digital and widefield laser systems
- OCT/OCTA-guided precision for safer and more effective treatment
- Minimal downtime with outpatient convenience
- Integration with multimodal imaging and intravitreal therapy
- High success rates and low complication rates in experienced centers
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted mapping of peripheral ischemic retina
- Widefield imaging for comprehensive laser coverage
- Combination protocols with anti-VEGF therapy
- OCT/OCTA-guided laser sessions for precision
- Longitudinal digital dashboards for post-treatment monitoring
These innovations make Korea a leading destination for Panretinal Photocoagulation Laser Treatment, offering safe, precise, and highly effective care for proliferative retinal diseases.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single PRP Session | ₩500,000 – ₩900,000 | ~$380 – $700 | Laser session + OCT/OCTA follow-up |
| Complete PRP Treatment (2–3 sessions) | ₩1,000,000 – ₩2,500,000 | ~$770 – $1,900 | Full peripheral coverage + follow-up |
| PRP + Anti-VEGF Combo | ₩1,500,000 – ₩3,500,000 | ~$1,150 – $2,700 | PRP + intravitreal injection + OCT/OCTA monitoring |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
