Treatment Overview
Retinal Vein Occlusion Vitrectomy in Korea is an advanced microsurgical procedure designed to treat complications caused by Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion (BRVO) or Central Retinal Vein Occlusion (CRVO). When blocked retinal blood vessels lead to persistent bleeding, macular edema, or tractional changes, vitrectomy helps clear hemorrhage, relieve traction, and restore retinal function.
The procedure typically involves pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), removal of vitreous hemorrhage, internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling when needed, and laser photocoagulation to stabilize damaged retinal areas. Korean retina centers utilize next-generation microincision systems, real-time intraoperative OCT, and AI-assisted vascular mapping for highly precise and effective surgery.
Korea’s modern RVO vitrectomy programs integrate:
- 25G/27G microincision vitrectomy for low-trauma surgery
- High-speed vitreous cutters for rapid hemorrhage clearing
- ILM peeling for chronic edema or traction
- Endolaser photocoagulation for ischemic retinal zones
- Gas or silicone oil tamponade for retinal stabilization
- Advanced OCT/OCTA imaging before and after surgery
- Efficient outpatient or short-stay protocols
This approach helps restore clearer vision, reduce macular swelling, and prevent long-term complications from retinal vein occlusion.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Remove dense vitreous hemorrhage
- Reduce macular edema and traction
- Stabilize ischemic or damaged retinal regions
- Improve vision compromised by RVO
- Prevent recurrent bleeding or further retinal damage
Benefits
- Faster visual recovery by clearing hemorrhage
- Reduction of swelling and improved blood flow
- Enhanced retinal anatomy with ILM peeling when needed
- Laser treatment strengthens retinal stability
- Minimally invasive microincision technique
- Effective even when injections have failed
Ideal Candidates
RVO Vitrectomy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with persistent vitreous hemorrhage from BRVO or CRVO
- Individuals with tractional macular edema or epiretinal membrane formation
- Cases unresponsive to anti-VEGF or steroid injections
- Patients with significant visual impairment due to unresolved bleeding
- Eyes needing combined PPV and endolaser stabilization
Possible Risks & Complications
Common/Moderate Risks
- Temporary blurred vision
- Mild inflammation
- Transient increase in eye pressure
- Mild macular edema
Rare/Serious Risks
- Retinal tear or detachment
- Recurrent bleeding
- Endophthalmitis (infection)
- Persistent macular edema
- Cataract progression (especially in older patients)
Korean specialists minimize risks through:
- High-speed vitreous cutters
- Real-time intraoperative OCT monitoring
- Precision laser delivery
- Ultra-fine 25G/27G vitrectomy systems
- Meticulous postoperative pressure and edema control
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- OCT / OCT Angiography
- Fluorescein Angiography (FA)
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV)
- Internal Limiting Membrane (ILM) Peeling
- Endolaser Photocoagulation
- Gas or Silicone Oil Tamponade
- Anti-VEGF or Steroid Injection Therapy
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- OCT and OCTA to evaluate edema and ischemia
- Fundus photography and vision testing
- Assessment of hemorrhage extent
- Decision on ILM peeling or combined therapies
Step 2 – Surgical Planning
- Selection of vitrectomy gauge (25G/27G)
- Planning endolaser treatment areas
- Determination of tamponade type (gas or silicone)
- Optional combined cataract surgery
Step 3 – RVO Vitrectomy Surgery
- Local or general anesthesia
- Microincision vitrectomy and removal of hemorrhage
- ILM peeling if required to reduce edema
- Endolaser to ischemic or bleeding areas
- Gas/silicone tamponade for stabilization
Step 4 – Postoperative Evaluation
- OCT imaging to assess macular thickness
- Monitoring of intraocular pressure
- Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops
Step 5 – Follow-Up & Maintenance
- Regular OCT monitoring
- Additional laser or injections if edema recurs
- Long-term vascular monitoring
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Avoid heavy lifting and vigorous activity
- Use all prescribed drops regularly
- Follow head-positioning instructions if gas tamponade is used
- Attend all follow-up visits
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Blurry vision from surgery or gas
- 1–2 Weeks: Reduced inflammation, improved clarity
- 4–8 Weeks: Edema reduction and vision stabilization
- 3–6 Months: Maximum visual improvement
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Clearer vision due to hemorrhage removal
- Reduced macular swelling
- Increased retinal stability from laser treatment
- Improved long-term visual function
Longevity
- Results are durable
- Edema recurrence is possible and monitored
- Ongoing retinal care is recommended for vascular conditions
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Leading retina surgeons with high success rates
- Ultra-modern microincision vitrectomy systems
- Integrated OCT/OCTA imaging before and during surgery
- Precision laser systems for ischemic retina management
- Expertise in managing complex RVO complications
- Seamless international-patient care in major centers
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted vascular mapping for laser targeting
- 3D digital microsurgery platforms
- Ultra-high-speed vitrectomy cutters
- Combined edema-control programs with imaging-guided injections
- Optimized postoperative pathways for rapid recovery
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard RVO Vitrectomy | ₩4,000,000 – ₩7,000,000 | ~$3,100 – $5,400 | PPV + hemorrhage clearing + laser |
| Vitrectomy + ILM Peeling | ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 | ~$4,600 – $7,000 | PPV + ILM peel + laser + OCT |
| Combined Procedure (Vitrectomy + Cataract Surgery) | ₩7,000,000 – ₩11,500,000 | ~$5,400 – $8,800 | PPV + laser + cataract surgery |
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
