Treatment Overview
PreserFlo MicroShunt Implantation in Korea is an advanced, minimally invasive subconjunctival glaucoma surgery designed to provide powerful and long-term intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction in patients with moderate to advanced glaucoma. The PreserFlo MicroShunt, made from biocompatible SIBS material, creates a controlled drainage channel that safely diverts aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to a subconjunctival filtration area, significantly lowering eye pressure with fewer complications than traditional trabeculectomy.
Korea is recognized as a leader in MicroShunt surgery because of its integration of:
- OCT-guided conjunctival and scleral mapping
- AI-assisted flow modeling and pressure prediction
- Refined micro-incision techniques
- Optimal anti-fibrotic protocols (e.g., Mitomycin-C micro-dosing)
- Digital bleb morphology assessment
This combination ensures highly predictable outcomes, reduced postoperative complications, and faster recovery compared to classic filtration surgeries.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Provide consistent, long-term IOP reduction through subconjunctival drainage.
- Reduce or eliminate dependence on glaucoma medications.
- Offer a safer, less invasive alternative to traditional trabeculectomy.
- Aid patients with moderate to advanced or medication-resistant glaucoma.
- Establish controlled outflow with low risk of hypotony.
Benefits
- Minimally Invasive: Small incision and minimal tissue disruption.
- Biocompatible Material: SIBS polymer resists degradation and tissue reaction.
- Stable, Controlled Outflow: Prevents sudden pressure drops.
- Lower Risk of Complications: Less scarring, fewer leaks, quicker healing.
- Long-Term Success: Ideal for persistent or progressive glaucoma.
- High Predictability: Standardized implant design improves outcome consistency.
- Comfortable Recovery: Minimal irritation and fast visual stabilization.
Ideal Candidates
PreserFlo MicroShunt Implantation in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with moderate to advanced open-angle glaucoma.
- Individuals with uncontrolled IOP despite medications, laser treatments, or other MIGS.
- Patients seeking a safer alternative to trabeculectomy.
- Individuals at high risk of scarring after previous surgeries.
- Those with medication intolerance or poor compliance.
- Patients needing long-term, maintenance-free glaucoma control.
Possible Risks & Complications
PreserFlo is significantly safer than older filtering surgeries. Temporary effects may include:
- Transient hyphema (small blood reflux)
- Mild subconjunctival swelling
- Temporary vision fluctuation
- Mild inflammation
- Early or late bleb leaks (rare)
- Under- or over-filtration (managed through postoperative care)
Korean surgeons minimize risks through:
- AI-backed flow prediction
- OCT-based conjunctival thickness assessment
- Precision Mitomycin-C dosing
- Digital bleb modeling
- High-quality postoperative monitoring
Surgical Techniques
1. AI-Evaluated Surgical Planning
Uses data-driven models to determine implant position, MMC dose, and expected flow.
2. Micro-Incision Creation
A tiny scleral tunnel is made to avoid large incisions and preserve tissue integrity.
3. MicroShunt Insertion
The implant is placed through the tunnel, connecting the anterior chamber to the subconjunctival space.
4. Anti-Fibrotic Application (Mitomycin-C)
Low-dose MMC reduces the risk of fibrosis and bleb failure.
5. Bleb Formation Support
A diffuse, low-profile bleb forms, promoting safe and stable drainage.
6. OCT Verification
Confirms proper implant position and bleb function.
Treatment Process in Korea
Step-by-Step Workflow
Step 1 – Comprehensive Glaucoma Evaluation
Includes OCT, visual fields, IOP measurement, and conjunctival analysis.
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
AI algorithms determine implant size, scleral entry point, and MMC dosing plan.
Step 3 – Implantation Procedure
Performed with micro-incisional techniques under topical or local anesthesia.
Step 4 – MicroShunt Placement
The implant is positioned precisely, with immediate flow observed.
Step 5 – Postoperative Care
Regular follow-ups monitor bleb shape, flow, and IOP response.
Treatment Duration: 15–20 minutes
Setting: Outpatient, same-day surgery
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops for 4–6 weeks.
- Avoid eye rubbing, swimming, and heavy exercise for the first 1–2 weeks.
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses when outdoors.
- Attend all scheduled IOP and bleb check visits.
- Follow individualized medication-tapering instructions.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–3: Mild swelling; initial IOP reduction begins.
Week 1: Bleb stabilizing; vision improving.
Weeks 2–4: Strong IOP reduction; inflammation subsides.
1–3 Months: Implant fully stabilized; long-term filtration established.
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Significant long-term IOP reduction, often comparable to trabeculectomy but safer.
- Reduced dependence on glaucoma medications.
- Stable, diffuse bleb with low complication rates.
- Ideal for long-term management of moderate to advanced glaucoma.
Longevity
- The PreserFlo MicroShunt can function effectively for many years, often for a decade or more.
- SIBS material resists degradation and maintains structural integrity.
- Korean post-surgical monitoring ensures optimized long-term outcomes.
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly Experienced Surgeons: Korea has leading specialists in subconjunctival MIGS.
- Advanced Imaging Technologies: OCT and UBM ensure perfect implant placement.
- AI-Driven Pressure Modeling: Enhances planning and minimizes complications.
- Minimal Trauma Approach: Tissue-preserving surgery leads to faster healing.
- Outstanding Long-Term Outcomes: High success rates with strong patient satisfaction.
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-calibrated flow prediction algorithms
- OCT-based conjunctival thickness mapping
- Enhanced Mitomycin-C micro-dosing strategies
- Hybrid MIGS combinations (MicroShunt + canal-based or trabecular MIGS)
- Long-term IOP monitoring using machine-learning trend analysis
These innovations make PreserFlo MicroShunt Implantation in Korea one of the most advanced, predictable, and effective glaucoma surgeries available.
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Treatment Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard PreserFlo MicroShunt | ₩4,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 | ~$3,400 – $4,500 | MicroShunt implantation + basic follow-up |
| Premium MicroShunt + MMC Optimization Package | ₩6,500,000 – ₩8,500,000 | ~$4,900 – $6,400 | AI-guided MMC dosing + OCT-guided placement |
| Advanced Hybrid MIGS + MicroShunt Program | ₩9,000,000 – ₩12,000,000+ | ~$6,700 – $9,000+ | MicroShunt + additional MIGS for severe glaucoma |
Pricing varies depending on clinic technology, surgeon expertise, and glaucoma severity.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul): Specialists in PreserFlo MicroShunt and complex glaucoma care.
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul): Leaders in AI-guided subconjunctival MIGS.
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan): Experts in MicroShunt + hybrid MIGS combinations.
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic: Known for precise bleb management and filtration MIGS.
- K-Cure Vision Center (Gangnam): Innovators in imaging-driven MicroShunt optimization.
