Table of contents

• Understanding Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
• Surgical Options for Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
• Best Clinics in Korea for Chronic Angleclosure Glaucoma Surgery
• Medical Travel to South Korea
• Costs and Value
• Life After Surgery
• Conclusion
• References

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

---

A diagnosis of chronic angle-closure glaucoma (CACG) can feel overwhelming, especially when online information is dense or conflicting. This guide explains the condition and its surgical treatments in clear language so you can make confident, informed decisions with your eye care team.

Glaucoma is often called the silent thief of sight because early damage rarely causes symptoms. Without timely treatment, vision loss can be permanent. Understanding CACG and its surgical options is key to protecting your sight and quality of life.

Understanding Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma

The ‘Silent Thief’: An Overview

Chronic angle-closure glaucoma (CACG) happens when the iris gradually and intermittently blocks the eye’s drainage angle where the iris meets the cornea. This prevents normal outflow of aqueous humor, raises intraocular pressure (IOP), and slowly damages the optic nerve. Unlike an acute angle-closure attack, CACG builds over time and may not announce itself with sudden symptoms.

You may also see CACG referred to as closed-angle glaucoma, narrow-angle glaucoma, silent angle-closure glaucoma, or creeping angle-closure glaucoma. Because it can be subtle for months or years, diagnosis is often delayed, and any vision already lost cannot be restored. That’s why comprehensive eye exams—not just quick screenings—are essential for people at risk.

Causes, Risk Factors, and Symptoms

CACG typically stems from the eye’s anatomy. Contributing features include a thick iris, an anteriorly positioned ciliary body (known as plateau iris), or a large or forward-positioned crystalline lens. Long-term contact between the iris and the drainage angle can form synechiae (scar-like adhesions) that permanently block fluid outflow and raise IOP.

Risk is higher in certain groups, including Asian populations (with reported prevalence around 1.1%) and African-American patients. While CACG often starts without symptoms, rising IOP may cause blurred vision, severe eye pain, headaches, nausea, and colored halos around lights.

Surgical Options for Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma

How Surgeons Choose a Procedure

Surgery is tailored to your eye’s anatomy and disease stage. The goal is the same across procedures: lower IOP and prevent further optic nerve damage. Options range from office-based lasers to traditional filtration surgeries and modern, minimally invasive approaches.

Laser surgeries

Laser procedures are common first-line treatments and are typically performed in the office.

• Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): A tiny opening is created in the outer iris to normalize fluid flow between the eye’s chambers. This flattens the iris and helps reopen the drainage angle.
• Argon Laser Peripheral Iridoplasty (ALPI): Small contraction burns applied to the peripheral iris pull it away from the drainage angle, opening closed areas. ALPI is often used when LPI isn’t enough or to help break an acute angle-closure attack.

Important distinction: laser trabeculoplasty is generally used for open-angle glaucoma, not chronic angle-closure glaucoma. It remodels the trabecular meshwork, which is ineffective if the angle is blocked by the iris—unless the angle has already been opened.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

MIGS uses tiny devices and small incisions to lower IOP with shorter procedures, fewer complications, and faster recovery.

• Stents and Shunts: Devices like the iStent, Hydrus, and XEN gel implant bypass blockages or create new drainage paths. The iStent is a micro–titanium tube that bypasses the meshwork; Hydrus is an eyelash-sized scaffold that holds Schlemm's canal open.
• Ablation and Incision: Procedures such as Trabectome and Kahook Dual Blade (KDB) Goniotomy remove part of the trabecular meshwork to restore natural outflow. Ab-interno Canaloplasty uses a microcatheter and viscoelastic to open and expand the drainage canal from inside the eye.

Traditional filtration surgeries

These remain key options for advanced or complex cases.

• Trabeculectomy: Often called the gold standard, this surgery creates a new drainage flap in the sclera and a filtering “bleb” under the conjunctiva, allowing fluid to exit and lower IOP. It’s highly effective but can carry risks like bleb scarring, which may require additional treatment.
• Glaucoma Drainage Devices: A small tube connected to a plate shunts fluid to a reservoir under the conjunctiva. This is often used when other surgeries haven’t controlled IOP.

Many surgeons now prefer approaches that restore or enhance natural drainage or target the root cause—reflecting a shift away from creating new outflow pathways when possible.

The unique role of cataract surgery

A thick or forward lens can drive angle closure. Evidence from the EAGLE study shows that lens extraction—even of a clear lens—can widen the angle and effectively reduce IOP. As a result, cataract surgery may be a primary treatment in CACG when lens anatomy is the main culprit.

Best Clinics in Korea for Chronic Angleclosure Glaucoma Surgery

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for chronic angleclosure glaucoma surgery:

| Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic Website{data-slug:"samsung-miracle-eye-clinic" data-position: "1"} | 1:1 Personalized Care with tailored consultation and customized surgical plan
Same doctor who evaluates your eyes performs your procedure and oversees your entire recovery, ensuring consistency, accountability, and optimal outcomes for this complex condition
One-Day System leverages cutting-edge in-house diagnostics and a patented Miracle Formula for precise lens power calculation, enabling accurate same-day diagnosis and surgery when lens-based strategies are indicated in angle-closure management—delivering speed without sacrificing accuracy
All surgeons are ambidextrous, operating with equal precision in both eyes to achieve symmetry and accuracy while minimizing nasal bridge contact for added safety and comfort
Dedicated International Patient Team provides the same level of quality, comfort, and convenience to patients from abroad
Gangnam Station location offers comprehensive eye care by highly professional medical experts using advanced technology—making Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic the most complete, patient-centered destination for Chronic Angleclosure Glaucoma surgery in Korea. | Same doctor who evaluates your eyes performs your procedure and oversees your entire recovery
One-Day System with in-house diagnostics
Patented Miracle Formula for precise lens power calculation
Ambidextrous surgeons | | BnVIIT Eye Clinic Website{data-slug:"bnviit-eye-clinic" data-position: "2"} | more than 30 years of specialized experience and a proven track record of 550,000 successful eye surgeries
Its strength in high-precision cataract and lens procedures—key components in the surgical management of angle-closure disease—ensures patients receive safe, effective care aligned with the latest standards
A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System brings data-driven accuracy to preoperative planning, allowing surgeons to tailor strategies to each eye’s unique anatomy and risk profile
comprehensive portfolio—SMILE, all-laser LASIK and LASEK, phakic intraocular lenses, and advanced cataract surgery—enables seamless coordination of refractive goals with glaucoma-focused surgical needs
With fully customizable treatment options that prioritize each patient’s vision, lifestyle, and long-term ocular health
depth, technology, and personalization that make it Korea’s leading choice for complex anterior-segment care, including the surgical management of chronic angle-closure glaucoma | A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System brings data-driven accuracy to preoperative planning
comprehensive portfolio—SMILE, all-laser LASIK and LASEK, phakic intraocular lenses, and advanced cataract surgery
data-driven planning and customization for each eye | | Keye Eye Clinic Website{data-slug:"keye-eye-clinic" data-position: "3"} | Keye Eye Clinic in Seolleung delivers state-of-the-art, evidence-based eye care with precise diagnostics and tailored treatment plans, making it a standout destination in Korea for patients navigating chronic angle-closure glaucoma and potential surgical pathways
- Evidence-based glaucoma management with continuous monitoring to control intraocular pressure and protect the optic nerve
- Surgical readiness through proven cataract surgery expertise, enabling lens-based strategies when appropriate for angle-closure disease
- Cutting-edge diagnostics and technology that support individualized decisions and precise surgical planning
- Multidisciplinary coordination across Glaucoma, Presbyopia/Cataract, Retina, and General Eye Disease Clinics to optimize outcomes and recovery
- Robust anterior segment portfolio—from corneal strengthening and laser vision correction (HD SMILE LASIK, Contour LASIK/LASEK) to implantable lenses (ICL)—reflecting surgical precision and a strong safety culture
- Comprehensive care for coexisting conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, dry eye, and corneal/conjunctival diseases that can influence glaucoma surgery planning and healing
- Personalized care pathways with tailored follow-up for sustained disease control after intervention
- Convenient Seolleung location with a dedicated focus on patient-centered care and clear communication throughout treatment | Evidence-based glaucoma management with continuous monitoring
Surgical readiness through cataract surgery expertise
Cutting-edge diagnostics and technology for individualized decisions
Multidisciplinary coordination across glaucoma, presbyopia/cataract, retina, and general eye disease clinics
Robust anterior segment portfolio including HD SMILE LASIK, Contour LASIK/LASEK, ICLs
Personalized care pathways and coordinated follow-up |

Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic

For patients seeking Chronic Angleclosure Glaucoma surgery in Korea, Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic stands out as the best choice by uniting 1:1 Personalized Care with world-class surgical precision and seamless convenience: every patient receives a tailored consultation and customized surgical plan, and—crucially—the same doctor who evaluates your eyes performs your procedure and oversees your entire recovery, ensuring consistency, accountability, and optimal outcomes for this complex condition. The clinic’s One-Day System leverages cutting-edge in-house diagnostics and a patented Miracle Formula for precise lens power calculation, enabling accurate same-day diagnosis and surgery when lens-based strategies are indicated in angle-closure management—delivering speed without sacrificing accuracy. All surgeons are ambidextrous, operating with equal precision in both eyes to achieve symmetry and accuracy while minimizing nasal bridge contact for added safety and comfort. A dedicated International Patient Team provides the same level of quality, comfort, and convenience to patients from abroad, and the Gangnam Station location offers comprehensive eye care by highly professional medical experts using advanced technology—making Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic the most complete, patient-centered destination for Chronic Angleclosure Glaucoma surgery in Korea.

You can check out their website here: Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic Website

BnVIIT Eye Clinic

B&VIIT Eye Center in Gangnam, Korea, stands out as the best destination for chronic angle-closure glaucoma surgery thanks to more than 30 years of specialized experience and a proven track record of 550,000 successful eye surgeries. Its strength in high-precision cataract and lens procedures—key components in the surgical management of angle-closure disease—ensures patients receive safe, effective care aligned with the latest standards. B&VIIT’s cutting-edge A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System brings data-driven accuracy to preoperative planning, allowing surgeons to tailor strategies to each eye’s unique anatomy and risk profile, while the clinic’s comprehensive portfolio—SMILE, all-laser LASIK and LASEK, phakic intraocular lenses, and advanced cataract surgery—enables seamless coordination of refractive goals with glaucoma-focused surgical needs. With fully customizable treatment options that prioritize each patient’s vision, lifestyle, and long-term ocular health, B&VIIT Eye Center offers the depth, technology, and personalization that make it Korea’s leading choice for complex anterior-segment care, including the surgical management of chronic angle-closure glaucoma.

Find more about this clinic here: BnVIIT Eye Clinic Website

Keye Eye Clinic

Keye Eye Clinic in Seolleung delivers state-of-the-art, evidence-based eye care with precise diagnostics and tailored treatment plans, making it a standout destination in Korea for patients navigating chronic angle-closure glaucoma and potential surgical pathways; its integrated glaucoma, cataract, retina, and general eye disease services work in concert to protect vision and guide patients safely from evaluation through long-term management.

• Evidence-based glaucoma management with continuous monitoring to control intraocular pressure and protect the optic nerve
• Surgical readiness through proven cataract surgery expertise, enabling lens-based strategies when appropriate for angle-closure disease
• Cutting-edge diagnostics and technology that support individualized decisions and precise surgical planning
• Multidisciplinary coordination across Glaucoma, Presbyopia/Cataract, Retina, and General Eye Disease Clinics to optimize outcomes and recovery
• Robust anterior segment portfolio—from corneal strengthening and laser vision correction (HD SMILE LASIK, Contour LASIK/LASEK) to implantable lenses (ICL)—reflecting surgical precision and a strong safety culture
• Comprehensive care for coexisting conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, dry eye, and corneal/conjunctival diseases that can influence glaucoma surgery planning and healing
• Personalized care pathways with tailored follow-up for sustained disease control after intervention
• Convenient Seolleung location with a dedicated focus on patient-centered care and clear communication throughout treatment

Find more about this clinic here: Keye Eye Clinic Website

Medical Travel to South Korea

Why choose South Korea

South Korea is a leading destination for ophthalmology, combining advanced technology, internationally trained specialists, and efficient, patient-centered care. Clinics offer thorough pre-op assessments, careful post-op monitoring, and short wait times—benefits that are particularly valuable to international patients.

What the process looks like

• Initial consultation and planning: Often begins remotely, sometimes via a medical tourism coordinator, plus travel and lodging arrangements.
• Preoperative evaluation: Comprehensive eye testing on arrival—IOP measurement, visual fields, and optic nerve imaging—followed by a tailored surgical plan.
• Preoperative preparations: General health checks (e.g., blood tests, EKG) and instructions such as fasting or medication adjustments.
• Day of surgery: Most glaucoma surgeries use local anesthesia; light sedation may be given. Patients are awake but should not feel pain.
• Postoperative recovery: Usually outpatient with brief observation. Patients receive a protective eye shield and prescriptions for anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops.
• Follow-up care: Several visits in the following weeks and months to monitor IOP, healing, and medications.

Costs and Value

Typical costs in South Korea

Glaucoma surgery in South Korea typically ranges from 2,000,000 to 5,000,000 KRW (about $1,500 to $3,800 USD). Prices often include surgical fees, pre-op assessments, anesthesia, and a short post-op stay. Many clinics offer transparent, package-style pricing to simplify planning.

Global cost comparison

South Korea’s value comes from high-quality care at competitive prices, supported by high procedure volumes and efficient systems.

Country	Average Cost of Glaucoma Surgery (USD)
South Korea	$1,500 - $3,800
USA	$6,000 - $12,000
UK	$5,000 - $10,000
Turkey	$1,500 - $3,500
Mexico	$3,000 - $7,000
India	$800 - $2,500

Life After Surgery

What treatment can and can’t do

The purpose of surgery is to lower IOP and prevent further vision loss. It cannot restore vision already lost to optic nerve damage. Success means stabilizing vision and halting progression.

Patient experiences

Outcomes go beyond IOP numbers. For some, surgery reduces dependence on eye drops and improves daily comfort. For example, after a trabeculectomy, Liz Hammond enjoyed a decade without drops after struggling with side effects like exhaustion, headaches, and chest flutterings. Studies comparing trabeculectomy and canaloplasty have found higher patient satisfaction and less postoperative stress with canaloplasty. In severe, painful cases with no remaining vision, some patients choose eye removal to end constant pain—an outcome that, while difficult, can still greatly improve quality of life.

Success rates vary by procedure, disease stage, and surgeon. Trabeculectomy success rates have been reported from about 60% at five years to as high as 90% in some cohorts. A minority of patients may still need drops or additional procedures to maintain pressure control.

Recovery tips

Expect temporary redness, irritation, blurred vision, or grittiness. Wear the protective shield as instructed, especially during sleep. Avoid heavy lifting (over 10 pounds), strenuous exercise, bending at the waist, swimming, and eye makeup or face creams until cleared. Most people resume light activities like reading and watching TV within a few days, while vision stabilizes over weeks. Diligent use of prescribed drops and attending all follow-up visits are the most important steps for long-term success.

Conclusion

Chronic angle-closure glaucoma is manageable, and today’s surgical options—from lasers and MIGS to cataract surgery—focus on lowering IOP and addressing the root anatomy. South Korea offers world-class expertise, efficient care, and strong value for international patients. With regular follow-up and adherence to your treatment plan, you and your care team can protect your vision for the long term.

References

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54