Treatment Overview
Zinc-Based Nutritional Therapy for Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) in Korea is a preventive and supportive treatment designed to slow the progression of intermediate to advanced AMD. Zinc, along with other essential antioxidants, plays a critical role in retinal cell protection and reducing oxidative stress, which is a major factor in AMD pathogenesis.
Korean eye centers and nutrition clinics are internationally recognized for integrating:
- Personalized micronutrient supplementation, including zinc, copper, vitamins C & E, lutein, and zeaxanthin
- Baseline macular pigment optical density (MPOD) testing to guide therapy
- AI-assisted dietary assessment to optimize nutrient intake
- Combination with lifestyle counseling (smoking cessation, diet, exercise)
- Monitoring with OCT and fundus imaging to track AMD progression
- Integration with ongoing ophthalmologic care, including anti-VEGF therapy if needed
This therapy is non-invasive and provides long-term support for macular health, complementing medical and surgical AMD treatments.
Purpose & Benefits
Purpose
- Provide essential micronutrients, primarily zinc, to support retinal health
- Reduce oxidative damage to the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors
- Slow the progression of intermediate to advanced AMD
- Support macular pigment density and visual function
- Complement ongoing AMD therapies, such as anti-VEGF injections or laser treatment
Benefits
- Non-invasive and safe with minimal side effects
- Evidence-based approach following AREDS/AREDS2 guidelines
- Supports overall retinal health and reduces risk of vision loss
- Personalized supplementation based on laboratory and imaging assessments
- Can be combined with lifestyle modifications for enhanced efficacy
- Integrated monitoring ensures early detection of AMD progression
Ideal Candidates
Zinc-Based Nutritional Therapy in Korea is ideal for:
- Patients with intermediate or advanced AMD
- Individuals with low macular pigment optical density (MPOD)
- High-risk patients with family history of AMD
- Patients seeking preventive or adjunctive support alongside medical therapy
- Individuals with dietary deficiencies in zinc or other key antioxidants
Possible Risks & Complications
Zinc supplementation is generally safe but may have:
Minor/Transient Issues
- Mild gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, stomach upset)
- Metallic taste in the mouth
Minimal Risks
- Rare allergic reactions to supplement components
- Excessive zinc intake may lead to copper deficiency if not balanced
Korean clinics minimize risks through:
- Personalized dosing based on blood tests and dietary assessment
- Regular monitoring of serum zinc and copper levels
- Integration with ophthalmologic follow-up
Related Diagnostic & Treatment Techniques
- Macular Pigment Optical Density (MPOD) Testing – Measures carotenoid levels in the macula
- OCT and Fundus Imaging – Monitors retinal structure and AMD progression
- Anti-VEGF Therapy – Nutritional therapy can complement intravitreal injections
- Lifestyle Counseling – Diet, exercise, smoking cessation
- Combination with Other Antioxidants – Vitamins C & E, lutein, zeaxanthin, omega-3 fatty acids
Treatment Process in Korea
Step 1 – Baseline Assessment
- Comprehensive eye exam including visual acuity and OCT
- MPOD testing to assess macular pigment levels
- Dietary and lifestyle assessment
Step 2 – Personalized Nutritional Plan
- Determine zinc dosage (typically 25–80 mg/day based on AREDS2 guidelines)
- Combine with other antioxidants (vitamins C & E, lutein, zeaxanthin)
- Provide diet and lifestyle recommendations
Step 3 – Supplement Administration
- Daily oral supplementation as prescribed
- Monitoring for tolerance and side effects
Step 4 – Follow-Up & Monitoring
- Regular ophthalmologic exams every 6–12 months
- Repeat OCT and MPOD testing to track AMD progression
- Adjust supplementation based on lab results and imaging
Duration: Ongoing daily therapy (typically lifelong for high-risk patients)
Setting: Ophthalmology clinic or specialized nutrition center
Recovery & After-Care
After-Care Guidelines
- Take supplements with meals to reduce gastrointestinal discomfort
- Maintain regular follow-up appointments with ophthalmologist
- Continue lifestyle modifications for retinal health
- Report any side effects to the clinic promptly
Recovery Timeline
- Immediate: No acute effects on vision
- Short-Term (3–6 months): Improvement in macular pigment density may begin
- Long-Term (1+ years): Slower AMD progression, stabilization of retinal health
Results & Longevity
Expected Results
- Slowed progression of intermediate to advanced AMD
- Improved macular pigment density and antioxidant protection
- Support for retinal cell health and visual function
- Reduced risk of central vision loss over time
Longevity
- Lifelong supplementation recommended for high-risk patients
- Safe for long-term use under supervision
- Continuous monitoring enhances effectiveness and adjusts therapy as needed
Why Korea Is a Top Destination
- Experienced ophthalmologists integrating nutrition with retinal care
- Advanced MPOD and OCT imaging for personalized therapy
- AI-assisted dietary and nutrient assessment
- Evidence-based supplementation following AREDS2 protocols
- Integrated lifestyle and retinal disease management
- English-speaking specialists available for international patients
Unique Korean Innovations
- AI-assisted monitoring of macular pigment and antioxidant levels
- Personalized micronutrient plans based on genetic and lifestyle factors
- Combination of nutritional therapy with cutting-edge retinal imaging
- Digital dashboards for longitudinal tracking of AMD progression
Cost Range (Indicative Estimate)
| Package | Price (KRW) | Approx. USD | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baseline Assessment | ₩200,000 – ₩400,000 | ~$150 – $310 | Eye exam, OCT, MPOD testing, dietary assessment |
| Personalized Supplement Plan | ₩300,000 – ₩600,000 | ~$230 – $460 | Zinc + antioxidant supplementation + lifestyle guidance |
| Follow-Up Monitoring | ₩150,000 – ₩300,000 per visit | ~$115 – $230 | OCT, MPOD, lab monitoring, treatment adjustment |
| Annual Comprehensive Package | ₩700,000 – ₩1,200,000 | ~$530 – $920 | Baseline + 3–4 follow-ups + supplement supply |
Popular Clinics in Korea
- B&VIIT Eye Center (Seoul)
- Dream Eye Center (Seoul)
- Kim’s Eye Hospital (Seoul)
- Seoul National University Hospital Retina Center
- NUNE Eye Hospital (Daegu)
- BGN Eye Clinic (Seoul & Busan)
- Glory Seoul Eye Clinic
- Gangnam Severance Hospital Ophthalmology
