Glaucoma Screening & Care in Busan, Korea
Glaucoma damages the optic nerve slowly and often without symptoms until vision is lost. BGSS’s Retina–Glaucoma Examination Center uses OCT and other imaging to detect it early and helps you manage it with a clear long-term plan.
Glaucoma, explained in one minute
Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases in which the optic nerve, which carries images from the eye to the brain, is gradually damaged, often in connection with raised eye pressure. Lost vision cannot be restored, so early detection and regular monitoring are the key to protecting sight.
Most people with open-angle glaucoma notice nothing at first: side vision fades so slowly that the brain fills the gaps. Normal-tension glaucoma, common in Korea and East Asia, can damage the nerve even when eye pressure is in the normal range.
Risk is higher if you are over 40, highly short-sighted, have a family history of glaucoma, or use steroid medicines. A check-up before vision correction surgery is also a good time to screen.
Glaucoma tests at BGSS Busan
Several measurements are combined, because no single test is enough.
Eye pressure (IOP)
Measures intraocular pressure, the main modifiable risk factor.
OCT
Measures the thickness of the optic nerve fibre layer to detect early damage.
UBM
Images the drainage angle to identify angle-closure risk.
Pachymetry
Corneal thickness, which affects how eye pressure readings are interpreted.
Fundus photography (VISUCAM)
Records the appearance of the optic disc to track change over time.
Retina check
A dilated examination of the retina and optic disc by your ophthalmologist.
From screening to long-term control
Glaucoma is managed, not cured. The goal is to keep the nerve stable.
Screen & diagnose
Pressure, corneal thickness and optic nerve imaging establish whether glaucoma is present and what type it is.
Lower the risk
Treatment usually starts with pressure-lowering eye drops; laser or surgical options are discussed when appropriate.
Monitor
Regular checks compare OCT and pressure results over time. Ask for copies of your results to share with your doctor at home.
Glaucoma-focused doctors in Busan
Has performed more than 10,000 ICL procedures and published research on glaucoma.
Has published research on glaucoma.
Former associate professor specialising in retina.
Should you have a glaucoma check?
Ask for a glaucoma assessment if you:
- Are over 40 and have not had a recent eye check
- Are highly short-sighted
- Have a parent or sibling with glaucoma
- Use steroid medicines long term
- Have been told your eye pressure or optic disc looks unusual
Bring any previous eye pressure readings or test results so changes can be compared.
Founded BGSS in 1997 and helped introduce LASEK and presbyopia surgery to Korea. Fellowship at UCLA Jules Stein Eye Institute.
Trusted in Busan since 1997
- Korea’s first generation of vision correction BGSS opened in Busan in 1997 and has performed more than 628,000 procedures in Seoul and Busan, including 330,000+ in Busan.
- Every major option under one roof SMILE Pro, SMILE, LASIK, LASEK, ICL, cataract and presbyopia surgery, so your doctor can recommend what truly suits your eyes.
- Advanced diagnostics Pentacam, CASIA2, Galilei G4, OCT, UBM and more are used to measure your eyes before any treatment.
- Government-recognised Designated by Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare as an advanced regenerative medicine institution, and registered for international patients.
- Central Seomyeon location Ion City Building, near Seomyeon Station Exit 7, with care in English and Chinese.
Glaucoma Care in Busan: frequently asked questions
What is glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of diseases that gradually damage the optic nerve, often linked to raised eye pressure. Vision lost to glaucoma cannot be restored, so early detection matters.
Does glaucoma have symptoms?
Usually not in the early stages. Side vision fades slowly, so many people only notice when damage is advanced. Regular screening is the best protection.
Can I have glaucoma with normal eye pressure?
Yes. Normal-tension glaucoma is relatively common in East Asia, which is why BGSS also images the optic nerve with OCT.
How is glaucoma treated?
Most often with pressure-lowering eye drops. Laser or surgical treatment may be discussed depending on the type and stage.
Can I have vision correction if I have glaucoma?
It depends on your nerve health and pressure control. Your doctor will review this carefully during your exam.
Can international patients be screened in Busan?
Yes. The Retina–Glaucoma Examination Center is on the 10th floor, and coordinators support you in English and Chinese.
Book your Glaucoma Care consultation
Send us your prescription and travel dates. Our international team will reply with a suggested schedule.
Appointments are by reservation only. We do not accept walk-in patients.
- Address
74 Seomyeon-ro, Busanjin-gu, Busan
Ion City Bldg 8–11F · Seomyeon Station Exit 7 - International Desk +82-10-7632-8782
- Busan Clinic +82-51-805-1100
- Mon · Tue · Thu · Fri 09:00 – 18:00 (lunch 13:00–14:00)
- Saturday 09:00 – 16:00
- Wed · Sun · Holidays Closed
