Treatment Overview
Segmental Scleral Buckling is a retinal reattachment procedure designed to treat localized retinal detachments or tears. Unlike a full encircling buckle, segmental buckling involves placing a silicone band, tire, or sponge on a specific segment of the sclera, directly beneath the retinal break. This technique minimizes surgical trauma, preserves ocular anatomy, and provides targeted support.
In Korea, segmental scleral buckling is performed using advanced imaging, precise surgical techniques, and AI-assisted planning:
- Widefield fundus imaging and OCT to locate retinal breaks and map detachment
- Customized segmental silicone elements for targeted scleral support
- Cryotherapy or laser photocoagulation to seal the retinal tear
- Optional microincision vitrectomy for complex or posterior detachments
- AI-assisted preoperative planning for buckle placement and tension
- Minimally invasive scleral exposure to reduce conjunctival trauma
Segmental buckling is ideal for single or localized retinal tears, providing effective reattachment while avoiding full circumferential buckles.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Reattach the retina by providing targeted external support
- Seal localized retinal breaks or tears
- Reduce vitreoretinal traction at the site of detachment
- Preserve ocular structure and function compared to encircling buckles
- Complement vitrectomy or cryotherapy in complex cases
Benefits
- Minimally invasive and highly targeted repair
- Reduces risk of complications associated with encircling buckles
- High anatomical success for single or localized detachments
- Can be combined with laser or cryotherapy for permanent adhesion
- AI-assisted planning ensures precise buckle placement
- Rapid visual recovery due to minimal ocular distortion
- Preserves lens and vitreous structure in phakic patients
Ideal Candidates
Segmental Scleral Buckling in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with single or localized rhegmatogenous retinal detachments
- Eyes with peripheral retinal tears or dialysis in a limited area
- Traumatic retinal detachments with a focal break
- Young phakic patients to avoid cataract risk from vitrectomy
- Individuals where full encircling buckle is unnecessary
- Patients requiring revision or adjunctive buckle procedures
Possible Risks & Complications
Minor/Transient Issues
- Mild eye discomfort, redness, or swelling
- Temporary blurred vision
- Mild diplopia due to local muscle manipulation
Rare/Serious Risks
- Recurrent retinal detachment
- Infection or buckle extrusion
- Tamponade-related complications (if combined with gas)
- Cataract progression if combined with vitrectomy
- Allergic reaction to silicone buckle materials
- Limited efficacy if undetected additional breaks exist
Korean clinics minimize risks through:
- Precise preoperative imaging and AI-assisted buckle mapping
- Experienced retinal surgeons skilled in segmental procedures
- Optional intraoperative OCT to confirm buckle positioning
- Postoperative monitoring to detect early detachment or complications
- Combining laser or cryotherapy as needed for optimal adhesion
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- OCT and Widefield Fundus Imaging – Identify localized retinal breaks
- Cryotherapy / Laser Photocoagulation – Seal retinal tears at buckle site
- Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV) – Optional adjunct for posterior or complex detachments
- Fluid–Air or Gas Tamponade – Stabilizes retina if required
- AI-Assisted Surgical Planning – Ensures precise segmental buckle placement
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Preoperative Assessment
- Comprehensive eye exam including visual acuity, IOP, and fundus evaluation
- OCT and widefield imaging to map retinal tear and detachment extent
- AI-assisted planning for segmental buckle size, location, and tension
Step 2 – Surgical Procedure
- Local or general anesthesia applied
- Small conjunctival incision to expose the sclera at the targeted segment
- Silicone band, tire, or sponge placed beneath the retinal break
- Buckle secured with sutures to create localized indentation
- Cryotherapy or laser applied to seal the tear
- Optional intraoperative OCT confirms retinal reattachment
Step 3 – Postoperative Follow-Up
- Examination within 24–48 hours
- Follow-up imaging at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months
- Additional interventions if detachment persists or new breaks occur
Duration: 60–120 minutes
Setting: Advanced retinal surgery operating room
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Mild discomfort, redness, or swelling is normal
- Avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or eye trauma for several weeks
- Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops
- Attend all follow-up imaging and examination appointments
- Report new flashes, floaters, or sudden vision changes immediately
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: Mild blurred vision and ocular discomfort
- 1–2 Weeks: Initial healing and reduction of inflammation
- 1–3 Months: Visual stabilization and retinal reattachment confirmation
- Long-Term: Regular monitoring ensures buckle integrity and retinal stability
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- High anatomical success in localized retinal reattachment
- Reduced risk of recurrent detachment for targeted tears
- Preservation of natural ocular anatomy
- Can be combined with vitrectomy or laser for complex cases
- Rapid recovery with minimal postoperative complications
Longevity
- Segmental buckle provides long-term retinal support
- Lifelong monitoring recommended for high-risk patients
- Rare revision needed unless buckle-related complications occur
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Experienced retinal surgeons specializing in segmental scleral buckling
- Advanced imaging for precise localization and surgical planning
- AI-assisted buckle sizing and tension adjustment for optimal outcomes
- Minimal dissection techniques reduce trauma and recovery time
- Integration with vitrectomy, laser, or cryotherapy when necessary
- English-friendly clinics with structured postoperative care
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted segmental buckle mapping and tension adjustment
- Microincision scleral exposure to minimize conjunctival trauma
- Combined segmental buckle and vitrectomy for complex detachments
- Widefield imaging for peripheral retinal assessment
- Digital postoperative monitoring dashboards
- Optimized surgical protocols for faster recovery and better comfort
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Segmental Scleral Buckle Surgery | ₩6,500,000 – ₩11,500,000 | ~$4,950 – $8,750 | Targeted buckle placement + laser/cryotherapy + imaging |
| Segmental Buckle + Vitrectomy | ₩10,000,000 – ₩16,000,000 | ~$7,650 – $12,200 | PPV + buckle + tamponade + laser/cryotherapy |
| Follow-Up Monitoring Package | ₩300,000 – ₩800,000 | ~$230 – $620 | OCT + fundus + AI-assisted follow-up |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Retina Unit
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
