Treatment Overview
Retinal Detachment Vitrectomy Repair in Korea is a microsurgical procedure designed to treat full-thickness retinal detachments, restore retinal anatomy, and preserve vision. The procedure involves pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) to remove vitreous traction, repair retinal tears, and reattach the retina using techniques such as laser photocoagulation, cryotherapy, and gas or silicone oil tamponade.
Korea is internationally recognized for advanced retinal detachment repair programs that integrate:
- Microincision vitrectomy (25G/27G/23G) for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- Intraoperative OCT guidance for precise retinal visualization
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized repair
- Combination with scleral buckle, laser, or tamponade as needed
- Rapid outpatient or short-stay surgical protocols
- High anatomical success rates and visual recovery outcomes
This approach ensures effective retinal reattachment, minimizes complications, and improves visual outcomes.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reattach the retina in cases of rhegmatogenous or complex retinal detachment
- Repair retinal tears and relieve vitreous traction
- Prevent further vision loss
- Stabilize retinal anatomy and support long-term visual function
- Complement adjunctive therapies such as gas/silicone oil tamponade or laser photocoagulation
Benefits
- Minimally invasive microincision vitrectomy
- Faster visual rehabilitation compared to traditional techniques
- Intraoperative OCT ensures precise retinal alignment
- Can be combined with scleral buckle or cataract surgery if needed
- High success rates with short recovery periods
Ideal Candidates
Retinal Detachment Vitrectomy Repair in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with rhegmatogenous retinal detachment
- Eyes with complex or recurrent detachments
- Individuals with retinal tears or vitreous traction
- Patients with coexisting cataract requiring combined surgery
- High-risk cases needing precise microincision vitrectomy and tamponade
Possible Risks & Complications
Common/Moderate Risks
- Temporary blurred or fluctuating vision
- Mild postoperative inflammation
- Minor retinal edema
Rare/Serious Risks
- Recurrent retinal detachment or tear
- Endophthalmitis (intraocular infection)
- Cataract progression in phakic patients
- Persistent macular edema
- Severe vision loss in complicated cases
Korean specialists minimize risks through:
- Microincision vitrectomy (25G/27G/23G) for minimal trauma
- OCT-guided surgery for precise retinal repair
- Careful tamponade application and laser placement
- Postoperative monitoring with OCT and fundus imaging
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Core surgical technique
- Scleral Buckle – Adjunct to support retinal reattachment
- Laser Photocoagulation – Secures retinal tears
- Cryotherapy – Provides additional retinal sealing
- Gas or Silicone Oil Tamponade – Internal support for reattachment
- Intraoperative OCT – Real-time retinal visualization
- Cataract Surgery – Can be combined if necessary
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive ophthalmologic exam including OCT, fundus photography, and visual acuity testing
- Mapping of retinal tears and detachment extent
- Planning for microincision vitrectomy, adjunctive scleral buckle, and tamponade
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Select vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G/23G)
- Determine need for scleral buckle, ILM or membrane peeling
- Plan adjunctive laser or tamponade if required
- Consider combined cataract surgery
Step 3 – Retinal Detachment Vitrectomy Repair
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision vitrectomy to remove vitreous traction
- Repair retinal tears with laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy
- Insert gas or silicone oil tamponade as indicated
- Combine with scleral buckle or cataract surgery if necessary
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- OCT imaging to confirm retinal reattachment
- Visual acuity and intraocular pressure monitoring
- Prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops
Step 5 – Follow-Up & Maintenance
- Regular OCT and fundus exams
- Additional interventions only if complications or recurrent detachment occur
Duration: 90–180 minutes depending on complexity
Setting: Advanced vitreoretinal surgery center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Maintain prescribed head positioning if tamponade is used
- Avoid rubbing or pressing the eye
- Follow all medication instructions strictly
- Attend scheduled postoperative visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision due to tamponade
- 1–2 Weeks: Inflammation subsides; initial visual improvement
- 2–6 Weeks: Gas or silicone oil tamponade absorbed/monitored; OCT confirms retinal reattachment
- Long-Term: Periodic monitoring ensures retinal stability
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Successful retinal reattachment in most cases
- Restoration of retinal anatomy and central vision
- Prevention of further detachment
- Stabilization of macula and peripheral retina
Longevity
- Permanent repair at treated retinal sites
- Lifelong OCT monitoring recommended for high-risk patients
- Combined surgical and medical management ensures durable outcomes
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Highly experienced vitreoretinal surgeons specializing in retinal detachment
- Microincision 25G/27G/23G vitrectomy for minimal trauma and faster recovery
- OCT-guided surgery for precise retinal repair
- AI-assisted preoperative mapping and surgical planning
- Access to combination procedures such as scleral buckle or cataract surgery
- High success rates with short outpatient or short-stay protocols
Unique Korean Innovations
- OCT-assisted retinal detachment repair
- AI-assisted surgical planning for individualized repair
- Microincision vitrectomy with precise tamponade
- Integration with scleral buckle, laser, or pharmacologic adjuncts
- Personalized postoperative positioning protocols
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Retinal Detachment Repair | ₩7,500,000 – ₩12,000,000 | ~$5,800 – $9,200 | 25G/27G vitrectomy + laser/cryotherapy + OCT follow-up |
| Repair + Tamponade | ₩9,000,000 – ₩14,000,000 | ~$6,900 – $10,700 | Vitrectomy + gas/silicone oil + OCT monitoring |
| Combined Procedure (Repair + Scleral Buckle/Cataract) | ₩11,000,000 – ₩16,000,000 | ~$8,500 – $12,300 | Vitrectomy + scleral buckle or cataract + follow-up |
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
