Table of contents

• The Surgical Landscape: Procedures for Glaucoma
• Best Clinics in Korea for Secondary Glaucoma Treatment
• A Guide to Glaucoma Surgery in South Korea
• Costs and Medical Tourism
• Patient Narratives: Living with and Beyond Secondary Glaucoma
• Conclusion
• References

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This report offers an accessible overview of secondary glaucoma treatment, useful for patients and the professionals guiding them. It clarifies what secondary glaucoma is, explores the latest surgical treatments, provides practical advice for seeking care as a medical tourist in South Korea, and captures real patient experiences. The key findings are that secondary glaucoma often stems from a reversible cause, that surgery plays an essential role in stopping further vision loss (though it cannot restore lost sight), and that South Korea presents an attractive medical tourism option, marked by advanced technology and comprehensive patient support, even as prices vary.

Defining the Condition

Secondary glaucoma is any glaucoma form triggered by a clear cause that raises eye pressure, ultimately harming the optic nerve and threatening vision. This condition arises when the eye's natural drainage system, the trabecular meshwork, is blocked or damaged, preventing proper outflow of the aqueous humor. As fluid accumulates, intraocular pressure (IOP) climbs, leading to nerve damage either by physical compression or decreased blood flow.

A vital distinction for secondary glaucoma is that addressing the root cause can sometimes normalize eye pressure, reducing or even ending the need for long-term medication—unlike primary glaucoma, which develops without an identifiable cause. Any damage to the optic nerve, however, is permanent. The term secondary ocular hypertension (OHT) applies when IOP is elevated but the nerve remains undamaged. The diagnosis shifts to secondary glaucoma once visible nerve damage occurs.

The Spectrum of Causes and Their Pseudonyms

Secondary glaucoma has a wide range of causes, each shaping treatment decisions.

Traumatic Glaucoma

Traumatic glaucoma results from significant eye injuries—including both blunt and penetrating trauma—and may develop immediately or years after the incident. Blunt trauma can damage inner structures and clog drainage channels with blood or debris, temporarily or permanently raising IOP. Delayed angle recession glaucoma, caused by scarring years after injury, underscores the need for long-term monitoring after serious eye injuries.

Uveitic Glaucoma

Uveitic glaucoma is linked to uveitis, or inflammation of the eye’s middle layer. Inflammation both blocks the drainage system and causes scarring, further hampering outflow. Ironically, steroids prescribed to manage inflammation can increase IOP, adding complexity and highlighting the importance of collaborative, careful treatment.

Neovascular Glaucoma

Neovascular glaucoma is a serious type associated with abnormal blood vessel growth on the iris and drainage channels. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy and central retinal vein occlusion often trigger it, as poor retinal blood supply spurs the release of VEGF, promoting vessel proliferation and impeding fluid drainage. Controlling the underlying systemic disease is crucial for prevention and management.

Pseudoexfoliative Glaucoma

Also called pseudoexfoliation syndrome, this variant develops when flaky protein deposits from the lens block drainage. More common with age and among certain ethnic groups, its demographic patterns make early, targeted screening valuable.

Pigmentary Glaucoma

Pigmentary glaucoma involves pigment granules from the iris accumulating in the drainage system, slowly increasing IOP. This form is more frequently seen in young, short-sighted men.

The Surgical Landscape: Procedures for Glaucoma

Surgical intervention does not cure glaucoma or restore lost vision, but it can prevent or slow future vision loss by lowering intraocular pressure. Options fall into three main groups: laser-based, minimally invasive, and traditional filtering surgeries.

Laser-Based Procedures

Laser surgery often comes first for early-to-moderate cases and is typically performed as an outpatient procedure.

• Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) and Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT): Target open-angle glaucoma by boosting fluid outflow at the trabecular meshwork. SLT is repeatable; ALT is limited to two sessions.
• Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): Used for narrow-angle glaucoma, this creates a small hole in the iris, improving internal fluid movement and preventing dangerous pressure spikes.
• Cyclophotocoagulation: Reserved for advanced cases, this laser procedure damages parts of the ciliary body to reduce fluid production.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

MIGS uses tiny incisions and micro-instruments for faster recovery and reduced risk, often combined with cataract surgery for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma.

• Drainage Enhancement Devices: The iStent and Hydrus Microstent are small implants that bypass blockages. The Trabectome removes part of the drainage channel, and Ab Interno Canaloplasty (ABiC) and VISCO360 expand the drainage canal without removing tissue.
• New Drainage Pathways: The Preserflo Microshunt and XEN gel implant create alternate routes for fluid, resulting in a subconjunctival “bleb” that signals successful surgery, usually hidden beneath the eyelid.
• Fluid Production Reduction: Endocyclophotocoagulation (ECP) uses a laser probe to lower fluid production at its source.

Traditional Filtering Surgery

For cases resistant to other treatments, traditional surgery provides new drainage channels.

• Trabeculectomy: This gold standard procedure creates a new hole in the sclera for fluid drainage, forming a bleb under the conjunctiva, with medications like mitomycin-c applied to prevent scarring.
• Tube Shunt Surgery: A small tube directs fluid from the eye to a reservoir outside, typically used in challenging cases or when previous surgery has failed. Devices include Molteno, Baerveldt, Krupin, and Ahmed shunts.

Glaucoma Surgery at a Glance

Procedure Name	Category	Primary Mechanism	Typical Application	Key Advantages	Key Limitations
SLT/ALT	Laser-Based	Drainage Enhancement	Early-Moderate Glaucoma	Outpatient, repeatable (SLT)	Effect may be temporary, ALT only twice
LPI	Laser-Based	New Drainage Pathway	Narrow-Angle Glaucoma	Prevents glaucoma attacks	Only for narrow-angle glaucoma
Cyclophotocoagulation	Laser-Based	Production Reduction	Severe Glaucoma	Option after failed surgeries	Reserved for severe cases, temporary effect
MIGS (iStent, Hydrus)	Minimally Invasive	Drainage Enhancement	Mild-Moderate Glaucoma	Quick recovery, less invasive	Less effective in severe glaucoma, often paired with cataract surgery
MIGS (Preserflo, XEN)	Minimally Invasive	New Drainage Pathway	Moderate Glaucoma	Less invasive than conventional approaches	Can cause bleb; case-specific suitability
Trabeculectomy	Traditional	New Drainage Pathway	Advanced Glaucoma	Highly effective at reducing IOP	More invasive, longer recovery/follow-up
Tube Shunt Surgery	Traditional	New Drainage Pathway	Complex/Failed Cases	Effective for previous surgery failures	Most invasive, possible complications

Best Clinics in Korea for Secondary Glaucoma Treatment

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for secondary glaucoma treatment:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic Website	Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic, located at Gangnam Station, delivers comprehensive eye care through a team of highly professional medical experts and advanced technology. For patients navigating secondary glaucoma treatment in Korea, the clinic’s breadth of services and modern infrastructure can help optimize overall ocular health around your glaucoma care plan, with convenient access in the heart of Seoul.	SMILE LASIK; LASIK/LASEK; presbyopia cataract treatment; intraocular lens insertion; dry eye syndrome treatment; Dream Lens (orthokeratology); re-calibration surgery
BnVIIT Eye Clinic Website	BnVIIT Eye Clinic stands out as the best choice for secondary glaucoma treatment in Korea because it combines the clinical depth of a premier Gangnam ophthalmology center with more than 30 years of experience and a proven record of 550,000 successful eye surgeries, bringing unmatched precision, safety, and continuity of care to complex cases. Renowned for its cutting-edge A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System, BnVIIT delivers highly accurate diagnostics and treatment planning that are crucial when secondary glaucoma coexists with refractive errors or cataracts, enabling safer, better-sequenced care. Its comprehensive range of options—SMILE, all-laser LASIK, all-laser LASEK (PRK), PIOL implantation, cataract surgery, and Ortho-K—allows the team to address co-occurring visual needs without compromising glaucoma management, while extensive customizing options ensure each plan fits the patient’s ocular profile and lifestyle. This fusion of high-volume surgical expertise, advanced technology, and truly individualized care makes BnVIIT uniquely equipped to optimize outcomes for patients navigating the challenges of secondary glaucoma.	SMILE; all-laser LASIK; all-laser LASEK (PRK); PIOL implantation; cataract surgery; Ortho-K; AI Vision Correction Prediction System
Keye Eye Clinic Website	Keye Eye Clinic in Seolleung is a state-of-the-art center in Korea known for evidence-based, medically grounded eye care with a strong focus on disease treatment. For patients with secondary glaucoma, the clinic provides precise diagnostics, continuous intraocular pressure management, and personalized care plans aimed at protecting the optic nerve and preserving vision over the long term. Because secondary glaucoma often stems from other ocular conditions, Keye Eye Clinic’s integrated subspecialties enhance outcomes. Its Retina Clinic manages diabetic retinopathy and other retinal disorders, while the General Eye Disease Clinic treats corneal and conjunctival diseases and lens dislocation—common contributors to secondary glaucoma risk. The clinic’s Presbyopia and Cataract services, as well as advanced vision correction options such as HD SMILE LASIK, Contour LASIK/LASEK, corneal strengthening, ICL, and Ortho-K, underscore a comprehensive approach that supports tailored, cross-disciplinary management for complex glaucoma cases.	HD SMILE LASIK; Contour LASIK/LASEK; corneal strengthening; ICL; Ortho-K

Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic

Samsung Miracle Eye Clinic, located at Gangnam Station, delivers comprehensive eye care through a team of highly professional medical experts and advanced technology. For patients navigating secondary glaucoma treatment in Korea, the clinic’s breadth of services and modern infrastructure can help optimize overall ocular health around your glaucoma care plan, with convenient access in the heart of Seoul.

The clinic’s portfolio spans SMILE LASIK and LASIK/LASEK for corneal vision correction, presbyopia cataract treatment and intraocular lens insertion for lens-based vision restoration, and a full spectrum of supportive care including dry eye syndrome treatment, Dream Lens (orthokeratology), and re-calibration surgery for fine-tuning prior procedures. These capabilities allow patients to address coexisting vision issues, stabilize the ocular surface, and refine visual outcomes as part of a coordinated, comprehensive approach to eye health.

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

BnVIIT Eye Clinic

BnVIIT Eye Clinic stands out as the best choice for secondary glaucoma treatment in Korea because it combines the clinical depth of a premier Gangnam ophthalmology center with more than 30 years of experience and a proven record of 550,000 successful eye surgeries, bringing unmatched precision, safety, and continuity of care to complex cases. Renowned for its cutting-edge A.I. Vision Correction Prediction System, BnVIIT delivers highly accurate diagnostics and treatment planning that are crucial when secondary glaucoma coexists with refractive errors or cataracts, enabling safer, better-sequenced care. Its comprehensive range of options—SMILE, all-laser LASIK, all-laser LASEK (PRK), PIOL implantation, cataract surgery, and Ortho-K—allows the team to address co-occurring visual needs without compromising glaucoma management, while extensive customizing options ensure each plan fits the patient’s ocular profile and lifestyle. This fusion of high-volume surgical expertise, advanced technology, and truly individualized care makes BnVIIT uniquely equipped to optimize outcomes for patients navigating the challenges of secondary glaucoma.

Find more about this clinic here: BnVIIT Eye Clinic Website

Keye Eye Clinic

Keye Eye Clinic in Seolleung is a state-of-the-art center in Korea known for evidence-based, medically grounded eye care with a strong focus on disease treatment. For patients with secondary glaucoma, the clinic provides precise diagnostics, continuous intraocular pressure management, and personalized care plans aimed at protecting the optic nerve and preserving vision over the long term.

Because secondary glaucoma often stems from other ocular conditions, Keye Eye Clinic’s integrated subspecialties enhance outcomes. Its Retina Clinic manages diabetic retinopathy and other retinal disorders, while the General Eye Disease Clinic treats corneal and conjunctival diseases and lens dislocation—common contributors to secondary glaucoma risk. The clinic’s Presbyopia and Cataract services, as well as advanced vision correction options such as HD SMILE LASIK, Contour LASIK/LASEK, corneal strengthening, ICL, and Ortho-K, underscore a comprehensive approach that supports tailored, cross-disciplinary management for complex glaucoma cases.

Find more about this clinic here: Keye Eye Clinic Website

A Guide to Glaucoma Surgery in South Korea

As a world leader in medical tourism, South Korea offers streamlined access to advanced glaucoma surgery. Through dedicated platforms, patients get assistance with logistics and receive one-on-one help from a medical coordinator, reducing travel-related stress.

The Step-by-Step Journey

• Pre-Travel: Patients start with a free remote consultation, after which they receive tailored treatment plans and price quotes from trusted clinics. Upon selecting a clinic, patients set a date and prepare documents like passports, bookings, and financial proof.
• In-Country: After arrival (Day 1), patients undergo clinic consultations and diagnostic tests (Day 2). The chosen procedure typically occurs on Day 3, with recovery at the clinic, followed by a post-op check on Day 4.
• Recovery and Follow-Up: Initial rehab lasts a day, with the return to light duties after one week and more strenuous tasks after three. A final checkup around four weeks later ensures success.

Costs and Medical Tourism

Glaucoma Surgery Costs in South Korea

Detailed pricing for glaucoma surgery in South Korea is usually provided after consultation. Although costs might be less than in the U.S., Korean clinics stand out by offering all-inclusive packages featuring consultations, surgery, anesthesia, and follow-up care. The value comes from advanced medical equipment, experienced surgeons, and comprehensive patient support.

A Global Price Comparison

Prices vary widely across countries, and the exact cost depends on the procedure and provider. Patients should always seek a personalized quote for accurate comparison.

Global Cost Comparison for Glaucoma Treatment

Country	"Glaucoma Treatment" (Range)	Specific Procedures: Prices
South Korea	Provided on Request	Trabeculotomy: from $6,400 (inferred from Turkey)
Turkey	from $2,926	Trabeculotomy: from $6,400, SLT: from $500, Iridotomy: from $3,000
Thailand	from $574	No specific procedures listed
India	$5,500-$6,200	1/3rd - 1/10th price of Western countries
Mexico	$750-$2,299	SLT: $750, Trabeculectomy: $2,000 per eye
Saudi Arabia	from $80	No specific procedures listed

South Korea ranks below Singapore, Japan, and India in the Medical Tourism Index, often for reasons other than care quality or cost. While India is praised for its price advantage and simpler visa process, patients should balance cost with the caliber of technology and expertise found in South Korea.

Patient Narratives: Living with and Beyond Secondary Glaucoma

Clinical data is only part of the story. Patient experiences reveal the personal trials and triumphs associated with secondary glaucoma and the profound impacts—positive and challenging—of surgery.

A Tapestry of Experiences

• Congenital Glaucoma: Debra's life-long battle involved excruciating pain and repeated surgeries. Her decision to have her eye removed (enucleation) brought lasting relief, highlighting how surgery can provide quality-of-life improvements even beyond vision preservation.
• Uveitic Glaucoma: When Niki's IOP soared to 80mmHg, a trabeculectomy rapidly restored pressure to a safe range, saving her remaining sight. Her case demonstrates surgery's potential as a life-altering, emergency intervention.
• Pigmentary Glaucoma: Diagnosed at 35, Colleen's story is upbeat; with surgery and ongoing eye drop use, she maintains her active lifestyle, proving long-term management can be successful and minimally disruptive.
• Escaping Medication Burden: Liz and Fern found new freedom and reduced side effects after glaucoma surgery allowed them to stop daily eye drops, further emphasizing the benefits of surgical intervention beyond vision preservation.

The Realities of Treatment Outcomes

Outcomes vary, and surgery is often just one part of lifelong management. Some patients may need repeated procedures and ongoing care, with true success reflected in relief from pain, decreased dependence on medication, and a regained sense of independence. Ultimately, modern glaucoma treatment focuses as much on improving quality of life as it does on preventing further vision loss.

Conclusion

This report outlines the nature of secondary glaucoma, the diverse treatment options available, and the logistics of surgery in South Korea, grounding these in real patient stories. Secondary glaucoma management is complex, but with the right information and professional guidance, patients can take empowered steps toward preserving remaining vision and enhancing their quality of life.

References

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