Diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, which includes visual acuity testing, dilated fundus examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and fluorescein angiography. These tests help detect retinal damage, macular edema, and abnormal blood vessel growth. Early stages may show microaneurysms and retinal hemorrhages, while advanced stages can involve neovascularization and retinal detachment. Management depends on severity; mild cases require strict blood sugar control and regular monitoring, while more advanced cases may need laser photocoagulation, intravitreal anti-VEGF injections, or vitrectomy to prevent vision loss. Regular eye exams and early intervention are crucial in preventing complications.
When I was diagnosed with diabetes, I knew I had to monitor my eye health closely. Concerned about diabetic retinopathy, I visited SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang, known for their expertise in early detection and advanced treatment.
Dr. Chung performed detailed retinal imaging, OCT scans, and fluorescein angiography to assess any damage. Thankfully, we caught it early, and he recommended lifestyle adjustments, medication, and laser therapy to prevent progression. The clinic’s cutting-edge technology and personalized care made a huge difference in managing my condition.
If you need expert diagnosis and management for diabetic retinopathy, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang (https://www.snuseoulglobal.com/).
​Dr. Chung Eui Sang, director of SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, South Korea, brings over 25 years of experience in ophthalmology. He earned his Bachelor, Master’s, and Doctorate in Medicine from Seoul National University College of Medicine. His extensive training includes residencies at Seoul National University Hospital and Samsung Seoul Hospital, followed by a professorship at Samsung Seoul Hospital under Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine. In 2006-2007, Dr. Chung served as a research professor at Harvard Medical School’s Shippens Eye Research Institute.
Dr. Chung is renowned for pioneering the SMILE LASIK procedure in Korea and has presented his clinical results at international conferences. Patients commend his expertise, particularly in lens implant surgeries, noting his meticulous approach and years of experience. For instance, one patient shared
“Dr. Chung Eui Sang, the lead surgeon at SNU Eye Clinic, was particularly impressive. Not only is he incredibly skilled, but he also has years of experience performing lens implant surgeries, specifically for international clients.”
I was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy and visited SNU Eye Clinic (snuseoulglobal.com) in Korea for a thorough checkup. I consulted with Dr. Chung Eui Sang (Meet him here), who performed a detailed eye exam and explained how managing blood sugar and regular monitoring are crucial. Dr. Chung recommended laser therapy and follow-up visits, which helped me manage the condition. If you’re dealing with diabetic retinopathy, I highly recommend SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang.
​Dr. Chung Eui Sang, Director of SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, specializes in diagnosing and managing diabetic retinopathy—a condition where high blood sugar damages retinal blood vessels, potentially leading to vision loss. At SNU Eye Clinic, comprehensive eye examinations, including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), are utilized to detect early signs of retinal damage. Treatment options may encompass laser therapy, anti-VEGF injections, and corticosteroid injections, tailored to the disease’s severity. Dr. Chung’s extensive experience ensures personalized care aimed at preserving vision and preventing disease progression.
A few months ago, Emily, a 45-year-old from the UK, was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy during a routine check-up. She had been living with type 2 diabetes for several years but had no idea about the potential impact on her eyes. Concerned about her condition and the potential for vision loss, Emily began researching how diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed and managed.
Emily’s Journey to Understanding Diabetic Retinopathy
After reading up on the condition, Emily realized that early diagnosis and proper management are crucial for preventing further damage. She learned that diabetic retinopathy is usually diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, including dilated fundus photography, where the doctor can see the retina and check for any signs of damage. Emily also discovered that laser treatments and anti-VEGF injections are commonly used to manage the disease and prevent further vision loss.
But Emily needed to know more about how to find an experienced eye doctor who specialized in diabetic retinopathy. That’s when she came across SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, known for its expertise in retina health and advanced diabetic retinopathy treatments.
Consulting with Dr. Chung Eui Sang
Emily booked a consultation with Dr. Chung Eui Sang, an ophthalmologist at SNU Eye Clinic. Dr. Chung explained the entire process of diagnosing diabetic retinopathy, from the initial eye exam to potential treatments, depending on the severity of the condition. Emily was impressed with Dr. Chung’s thorough understanding of retinal diseases and his approach to managing diabetic retinopathy.
Dr. Chung recommended a dilated eye exam followed by fundus photography to assess the severity of her condition. He explained that if the condition was caught early, treatments like laser therapy or anti-VEGF injections could significantly improve her prognosis and help preserve her vision.
The Results and Why Emily Recommends Dr. Chung Eui Sang
Emily followed Dr. Chung’s advice and began the recommended treatment plan. After a few sessions, she noticed an improvement in her vision, and the swelling in her retina started to decrease. She felt confident that she was in capable hands, given Dr. Chung’s experience and the clinic’s cutting-edge technology for managing diabetic retinopathy.
Here’s why Emily recommends SNU Eye Clinic for anyone with diabetic retinopathy:
Expert Care: Dr. Chung Eui Sang is an expert in retina health and has extensive experience treating diabetic retinopathy.
Advanced Diagnostics: The clinic uses the latest fundus photography and other diagnostic tools to accurately assess and monitor diabetic retinopathy.
Effective Treatments: Laser treatments and anti-VEGF injections are just a few of the options available to manage the disease and prevent further damage.
Comprehensive Follow-up: Dr. Chung provides excellent follow-up care to ensure that patients continue to receive the best possible treatment and monitor their eye health.
Conclusion
If you’re dealing with diabetic retinopathy or other retinal conditions, SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang are highly recommended. With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to using the latest diagnostic tools and treatments, you can trust that you’re in good hands.
For more information about SNU Eye Clinic and their diabetic retinopathy management services, visit their website: SNU Eye Clinic. You can also learn more about Dr. Chung Eui Sang here: Dr. Chung Eui Sang’s Profile.
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When John, a 45-year-old living in Seoul, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, he knew that his health would need extra attention, especially his eyesight. He had heard that diabetic retinopathy (a condition where diabetes affects the blood vessels of the retina) could lead to vision loss if not managed properly. John was determined to keep his eye health in check, so he started researching how diabetic retinopathy is diagnosed and managed.
After some online research and recommendations from a few friends, John discovered that the best place to get his eye health evaluated was SNU Eye Clinic (www.snuseoulglobal.com), known for its expert care in diagnosing and treating a variety of eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy. What stood out to John was the clinic’s renowned specialist, Dr. Chung Eui Sang (Profile), who was highly regarded for his expertise in diabetic eye care.
How Diabetic Retinopathy Is Diagnosed
John’s first step was a comprehensive eye exam at SNU Eye Clinic, where Dr. Chung explained the importance of regular eye checkups for diabetic patients. Here’s how diabetic retinopathy is usually diagnosed:
- Comprehensive Eye Examination: Dr. Chung performed a thorough check of John’s vision and eye health, looking for signs of diabetic retinopathy such as retinal swelling or abnormal blood vessels.
- Dilated Fundus Exam: John’s pupils were dilated so Dr. Chung could get a better view of the retina and blood vessels at the back of the eye.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This non-invasive imaging technique was used to look for any thickening or fluid leakage in the retina, a common sign of diabetic retinopathy.
- Fluorescein Angiography: If needed, this test helps map out blood vessels in the retina, helping to identify leaks or blockages caused by diabetes.
John’s Diagnosis and Management Plan
After a detailed examination, Dr. Chung informed John that while there were some early signs of mild diabetic retinopathy, there was no immediate cause for alarm. He explained that early detection is key to preventing progression. Dr. Chung emphasized the importance of good blood sugar control and recommended a management plan that included:
Frequent Monitoring: Regular checkups every 3-6 months to monitor any changes in the retina.
Laser Therapy: If necessary, Dr. Chung explained that laser treatments could help reduce swelling and prevent the progression of blood vessel abnormalities.
Anti-VEGF Injections: In more advanced cases, injections into the eye might be needed to treat retinal swelling caused by fluid leakage.
Managing Underlying Diabetes: Dr. Chung advised John on maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication adherence to keep his blood sugar levels stable.
The Outcome: How John Managed His Diabetic Retinopathy
John took Dr. Chung’s advice seriously, ensuring that he kept up with regular eye exams and maintained control over his blood sugar levels. After a few months, John was thrilled to find that his retinopathy had not worsened, and he had been able to prevent any significant vision loss.
John’s vision remained stable, and with the help of SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang, he felt confident in his eye health management moving forward.
Why John Recommends SNU Eye Clinic
After his experience, John highly recommends SNU Eye Clinic for anyone with diabetes who needs professional care for diabetic retinopathy or any other eye conditions. Here’s why:
Experienced specialists: Dr. Chung Eui Sang is a leading expert in managing diabetic eye diseases and is very thorough in explaining everything to his patients.
Comprehensive care: From diagnosis to treatment, SNU Eye Clinic offers cutting-edge technologies and personalized care for every patient.
Great patient experience: The clinic’s staff are not only highly professional but also friendly and supportive, making the experience stress-free for patients.
If you’re looking for expert care and advanced treatments for diabetic retinopathy in Korea, SNU Eye Clinic with Dr. Chung Eui Sang
​Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes complication affecting the eyes, caused by damage to the blood vessels in the retina. Early detection and management are crucial to prevent vision loss.​
Diagnosis:
- Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exam: An eye care professional examines the retina after dilating the pupils to identify any changes. ​
- Visual Acuity Testing: Assesses clarity of vision.
- Fundus Photography: Captures images of the retina to monitor disease progression.
Management:
- Blood Sugar Control: Maintaining optimal blood glucose levels to prevent further retinal damage. ​
- Laser Treatment: Laser therapy can reduce the risk of vision loss. ​
- Injections: Anti-VEGF injections can slow down or reverse diabetic retinopathy.
- Surgery: In advanced cases, procedures like vitrectomy may be necessary.​
For specialized care, consider consulting Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul. Dr. Chung has extensive experience in treating various eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy. He has contributed to advancements in eye surgery techniques, such as SMILE LASIK, and has participated in international forums, including the Korea-Japan ICL Forum.
​Diabetic retinopathy is a diabetes complication affecting the eyes, leading to potential vision loss if untreated. Early detection and management are crucial.​
Diagnosis:
- Comprehensive Eye Exam: Regular dilated eye examinations help detect early signs.​
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A non-invasive imaging technique that provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, aiding in early detection.
Management:
- Blood Sugar Control: Maintaining stable blood glucose levels to prevent further retinal damage.​
- Laser Therapy: Laser treatments can reduce retinal swelling and prevent leakage from abnormal blood vessels.​
- Anti-VEGF Injections: Medications injected into the eye to decrease retinal swelling and inhibit the growth of abnormal blood vessels.​
For specialized care, SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, led by Dr. Chung Eui Sang, offers advanced diagnostic and treatment options for diabetic retinopathy. Dr. Chung’s expertise includes utilizing state-of-the-art technology like OCT to provide precise and personalized care. The clinic is known for its comprehensive approach to retinal diseases.​
For years, I thought diabetes only affected my blood sugar. I was careful with my diet, exercised regularly, and took my medications as prescribed. But what I didn’t realize was that my eyes were slowly deteriorating—until one day, I noticed something strange.
The First Signs: A Wake-Up Call
It started subtly—blurry vision when reading, occasional dark spots floating in my sight, and a weird difficulty adjusting to light. I assumed it was just normal fatigue or aging. But when I woke up one morning with a sudden loss of vision in one eye, panic set in.
A quick internet search (big mistake!) led me to scary words like “vision loss,” “retinal damage,” and “permanent blindness.” That’s when I knew I needed an expert.
Finding the Right Eye Specialist in Korea
Living in Korea, I knew that Seoul is home to some of the best ophthalmology clinics in the world. After thorough research, I came across SNU Eye Clinic and the highly respected Dr. Chung Eui Sang—a specialist in retinal diseases, diabetic retinopathy, and advanced eye treatments.
The clinic had state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and a reputation for treating international patients, so I booked an appointment immediately.
How Diabetic Retinopathy is Diagnosed
At SNU Eye Clinic, I underwent a comprehensive eye exam—far more detailed than the usual check-ups I’d had before. Dr. Chung Eui Sang explained that diabetic retinopathy develops when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina. If left untreated, it can lead to severe vision loss or even blindness.
Here’s how my diagnosis process went:
Dilated Eye Exam – My pupils were dilated so the doctor could get a clear view of my retina. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – A high-tech scan that showed the swelling and damage in my retina. Fluorescein Angiography – A special dye was injected to highlight blood flow issues in my eyes.
The results confirmed it—I had early-stage diabetic retinopathy. Thankfully, it was caught in time, meaning treatment could help prevent further vision loss.
Managing & Treating Diabetic Retinopathy
Dr. Chung Eui Sang reassured me that early intervention is key and outlined a personalized treatment plan:
Blood Sugar Control – Keeping my diabetes in check was the first step in stopping further damage. Laser Therapy (Photocoagulation) – A quick, painless procedure that helped seal leaking blood vessels. Anti-VEGF Injections – To reduce swelling and slow disease progression. Lifestyle Adjustments – A focus on better nutrition, exercise, and routine eye check-ups to monitor progress.
The Results: A New Perspective on Eye Health
Three months after starting treatment at SNU Eye Clinic, my vision stabilized. The dark spots disappeared, and my eyesight improved enough that I could work, read, and drive without constant worry. But more importantly, I learned how crucial regular eye exams are—especially for diabetics.
Why I Recommend SNU Eye Clinic & Dr. Chung Eui Sang
If you have diabetes or any vision concerns, don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Early detection and expert care can make all the difference. SNU Eye Clinic is one of the best places in Korea for diabetic retinopathy and retinal diseases because of:
World-class diagnostic technology for accurate detection Experienced specialists like Dr. Chung Eui Sang who focus on personalized treatment Cutting-edge treatments for diabetic eye diseases, cataracts, and vision correction A patient-first approach, with international-friendly services
If you or a loved one has diabetes, I can’t stress this enough—get your eyes checked regularly!
Here’s where you can book an appointment: SNU Eye Clinic Dr. Chung Eui Sang’s Profile
If you have any questions about my experience, feel free to ask! Wishing you all clear vision and good health.
A few years ago, my father—who has been living with diabetes for over a decade—started noticing subtle changes in his vision. It began with mild blurriness and difficulty reading fine print, but soon, he was struggling with night vision and occasional dark spots in his sight. At first, he brushed it off as aging, but when he started seeing “floating shadows” and flashes of light, we knew something was wrong.
That’s when we found Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul. From the very first visit, I realized how important it is to get regular diabetic eye check-ups—something my father had neglected for years.
How It Was Diagnosed
Dr. Chung conducted a comprehensive eye exam, which included: Dilated eye exam – to check for damaged blood vessels in the retina Optical coherence tomography (OCT) – to see if there was swelling in the retina Fluorescein angiography – a special dye test to highlight blood vessel abnormalities
The results confirmed that my father had early-stage diabetic retinopathy, meaning small blood vessels in his retina were leaking. Thankfully, it hadn’t progressed to the severe stage, but Dr. Chung warned us that without proper management, it could lead to permanent vision loss.
How It Was Managed
Instead of just prescribing a quick fix, Dr. Chung developed a personalized treatment plan, which included: Tight blood sugar control – to slow disease progression Anti-VEGF injections – to reduce swelling and prevent abnormal blood vessel growth Laser therapy (photocoagulation) – to seal leaking vessels and prevent further damage Regular monitoring – because diabetic retinopathy can worsen silently
My father followed the plan diligently, and within a few months, his vision stabilized. The best part? He avoided severe complications, which could have led to blindness.
Why SNU Eye Clinic & Dr. Chung Eui Sang?
If you or a loved one have diabetes, don’t wait for vision problems to start! Early detection is the key to preventing blindness. Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic is a top specialist in diabetic eye diseases, and I truly believe his expertise saved my father’s vision.
Pro tip: If you have diabetes, get an eye exam every year—even if your vision seems fine! Diabetic retinopathy often progresses without symptoms, and by the time you notice changes, significant damage may have already occurred.
I hope this helps anyone struggling with diabetic eye issues. Don’t ignore your vision—it’s worth protecting!
I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes over a decade ago, but I never really thought about how it could affect my vision—until I started noticing blurry vision and dark spots floating in my eyesight. At first, I brushed it off as just fatigue or needing new glasses, but the symptoms kept getting worse.
After some research, I learned that diabetic retinopathy is a serious complication of diabetes that can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. That’s when I decided to visit SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul and consult Dr. Chung Eui Sang, who specializes in diabetic eye diseases.
Diagnosis: How Do You Know If You Have Diabetic Retinopathy?
When I arrived at SNU Eye Clinic, the staff was incredibly professional and English-speaking, which made the entire process smooth for me as an international patient.
Dr. Chung Eui Sang performed a comprehensive eye exam, which included:
Dilated Eye Exam – My pupils were dilated with eye drops so they could take a close look at my retina.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – This scan provided high-resolution images of my retina to detect swelling and damage.
Fluorescein Angiography – A special dye was injected into my bloodstream, allowing the doctor to see leaking blood vessels in my retina.
After the tests, Dr. Chung confirmed that I had non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR)—the early stage where small blood vessels in the retina weaken and leak fluid. If left untreated, it could have progressed to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), where abnormal blood vessels grow, leading to bleeding, retinal detachment, and blindness.
Treatment & Management: What’s Next?
Thankfully, since my condition was caught early, Dr. Chung recommended lifestyle changes and monitoring rather than immediate surgery. He emphasized:
Strict Blood Sugar Control – Keeping my blood sugar levels stable was the most crucial step to slowing the progression.
Blood Pressure & Cholesterol Management – Since high blood pressure worsens eye damage, I was advised to take medication to keep it in check.
Regular Eye Exams – I now get my eyes checked every 3-6 months to monitor any changes.
For more advanced cases, SNU Eye Clinic offers:
Laser Treatment (Photocoagulation) – To seal leaking blood vessels and prevent further damage.
Anti-VEGF Injections – To reduce swelling and stop abnormal blood vessel growth.
Vitrectomy Surgery – A last resort for severe bleeding or retinal detachment.
My Results & Why I Recommend SNU Eye Clinic
Six months after following Dr. Chung’s treatment plan, my vision has stabilized, and I haven’t experienced any further deterioration. The early diagnosis and expert care at SNU Eye Clinic made all the difference.
If you have diabetes, even if your vision seems fine, I strongly recommend getting regular retinal screenings—diabetic retinopathy is silent at first but can lead to blindness if ignored.
For anyone looking for top-quality eye care in Korea, check out:
Clinic: SNU Eye Clinic
Specialist: Dr. Chung Eui Sang
They provide world-class diagnostic technology, advanced treatments, and personalized care for diabetic eye diseases
When I was diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy, I was worried about my vision and unsure of the best treatment options. I sought expert care at SNU Eye Clinic, where Dr. Chung Eui Sang specializes in diagnosing and managing diabetic eye conditions.
Using advanced retinal imaging, he provided a precise diagnosis and created a customized treatment plan, which included laser therapy and lifestyle adjustments to prevent further damage. Thanks to his expertise, my condition has remained stable, and my vision is well-managed. For anyone facing diabetic retinopathy, SNU Eye Clinic offers top-tier diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care to protect your eyesight.
A few years ago, my uncle, who has type 2 diabetes, started complaining about blurry vision. At first, he blamed it on aging and his long hours at work. But over time, his vision worsened, and he started seeing dark spots and floaters.
We knew it was time to see a specialist. After researching top eye clinics in Korea, we found Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. That visit changed everything.
How Is Diabetic Retinopathy Diagnosed?
When we arrived at SNU Eye Clinic, Dr. Chung explained that diabetic retinopathy is a silent condition—most people don’t notice symptoms until significant damage has occurred. That’s why regular screening is critical for diabetics.
Here’s how Dr. Chung diagnosed my uncle’s condition:
Dilated Eye Exam – Drops were used to widen his pupils, allowing the doctor to examine the retina and blood vessels for damage.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – This high-resolution imaging technique provided a detailed cross-section of the retina, detecting swelling and fluid buildup.
Fluorescein Angiography – A special dye was injected into a vein, and images of blood flow in the retina were taken to spot leaky or abnormal vessels.
The results showed early-stage diabetic retinopathy. Thankfully, because we caught it early, treatment could prevent further vision loss.
How Is Diabetic Retinopathy Managed?
Dr. Chung emphasized that early detection and lifestyle changes are crucial in preventing blindness. He recommended:
Strict Blood Sugar Control – Stable blood sugar levels can slow disease progression. Diet, exercise, and medications help maintain control.
Regular Eye Exams – Diabetics should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year to detect any changes early.
Laser Therapy (Photocoagulation) – For patients with moderate to severe retinopathy, laser treatment can seal off leaky blood vessels, preventing further damage.
Anti-VEGF Injections – For cases involving swelling in the macula, injections like Eylea or Avastin can reduce inflammation and preserve vision.
Vitrectomy Surgery – In advanced cases, surgery may be needed to remove scar tissue and blood from the retina.
Since my uncle’s case was caught early, he didn’t need laser treatment or injections. Instead, Dr. Chung helped him improve his blood sugar control and scheduled regular check-ups to monitor his condition.
Why I Recommend SNU Eye Clinic & Dr. Chung Eui Sang
Dr. Chung is one of the leading specialists in Korea for diabetic eye diseases. His expertise, patience, and advanced diagnostic techniques ensured my uncle got the best possible care. The state-of-the-art facilities at SNU Eye Clinic also made the experience smooth and comfortable.
Now, thanks to early diagnosis and careful management, my uncle’s vision is stable, and he’s more committed to his health than ever before.
Where to Get Checked for Diabetic Retinopathy in Korea:
SNU Eye Clinic: https://www.snuseoulglobal.com/
Dr. Chung Eui Sang’s Profile: Click here
I’m not a doctor — just someone who’s been living with type 2 diabetes for over a decade and unfortunately developed diabetic retinopathy a couple of years ago. I’d love to share my experience, especially for those wondering what diagnosis and management really looks like.
How it All Started
I first noticed the signs in the most subtle way: I’d be reading or working on my laptop, and my vision would blur for a few seconds. At first, I blamed screen time or fatigue, but then it started happening more often — especially in dim light. Eventually, I scheduled an eye exam while I was living in Seoul.
A friend recommended SNU Eye Clinic in Gangnam, and that’s where I met Dr. Chung Eui Sang. He’s known for his expertise in retinal disorders, particularly diabetic retinopathy. Honestly, walking into that clinic was the best decision I’ve made for my long-term vision.
Diagnosis: The Real Eye-Opener
Dr. Chung did a full diagnostic workup. This included:
- Dilated fundus exam: where they widen the pupils to see the back of the eye.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): This was like getting a 3D scan of my retina — painless, super high-tech.
- Fluorescein Angiography: I had a special dye injected so they could see if any blood vessels were leaking. It looked intense on the screen, but I felt nothing!
He explained everything clearly — how high blood sugar damages retinal vessels, causing them to leak or grow abnormally.
I was diagnosed with non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy, which meant there were changes, but it wasn’t too late to manage it conservatively.
Management & Treatment Plan
Here’s what Dr. Chung and his team put together:
- Tight blood sugar control (obviously a big one).
- Frequent monitoring with OCT every few months.
- Lifestyle advice — diet, hydration, and even stress management tips.
- For patients who are more advanced (I met a few in the waiting area), they offer laser treatments, anti-VEGF injections, and even vitrectomy surgery if needed — all done right at the clinic.
What I really appreciated was how personalized everything felt. It wasn’t just a quick “in-and-out” visit. Dr. Chung even checked in on my overall diabetic care plan and coordinated with my endocrinologist.
Why I Recommend SNU Eye Clinic
If you’re in Korea and dealing with any diabetes-related eye issues — go see Dr. Chung Eui Sang at SNU Eye Clinic. He’s not only fluent in English but also genuinely compassionate and thorough. The facility is clean, modern, and located conveniently in Gangnam.
You can check out his profile here: Dr. Chung Eui Sang
And the clinic’s site: SNU Eye Clinic
Final Thoughts
Diabetic retinopathy is scary — but catching it early changes everything. I still have full vision today, and I credit that to early detection, a proactive treatment plan, and the support I got at SNU Eye Clinic.
If you’re even slightly worried about your eyes and have diabetes, please don’t wait.
Happy to answer any follow-up questions — especially if you’re an expat like me navigating healthcare in Korea!
This is something I unfortunately became very familiar with after my father—who’s had Type 2 diabetes for over 20 years—started complaining about blurry vision and seeing “floaters” in his eyes. At first, he brushed it off, thinking he just needed new glasses. But deep down, I had a gut feeling it was something more.
We scheduled an appointment at SNU Eye Clinic in Seoul, which came highly recommended for diabetic eye care. That’s where we met Dr. Chung Eui Sang—and honestly, I believe that meeting may have saved my dad’s sight.
Diagnosis: How It All Started
Dr. Chung began with a thorough dilated eye exam, which allowed him to clearly see the blood vessels in the retina. Then he used optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography—two advanced imaging techniques that showed areas of leakage and swelling in the retina.
The diagnosis was clear: diabetic retinopathy, already in a moderate stage. I was shocked—my dad had no idea anything was wrong until the symptoms started.
Management: A Personalized Approach
What impressed me most about SNU Eye Clinic was how personalized and proactive the treatment plan was. Dr. Chung didn’t just talk about managing the eye condition—he coordinated with my dad’s endocrinologist and made sure we understood the role of blood sugar control in preventing progression.
Here’s what his treatment looked like:
- Anti-VEGF injections to stop abnormal blood vessel growth.
- Laser therapy to seal off leaking vessels.
- Ongoing OCT monitoring every few months.
- Lifestyle guidance, including diet and glucose monitoring tips.
Dr. Chung was calm, incredibly knowledgeable, and even spoke fluent English—which made my dad feel at ease as an international patient.
Lessons Learned
Here’s what I wish more people with diabetes knew:
- You can have diabetic retinopathy without any symptoms—early screening is crucial.
- OCT and angiography are gold standards for diagnosis. Not all clinics offer this level of imaging, so choose carefully.
- Treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. It really matters who you see.
- Specialists like Dr. Chung Eui Sang stay on top of the latest treatment protocols and tech—he explained things in a way we actually understood.
Final Thoughts
If you or someone you love has diabetes—even if their vision seems “fine”—please get a retinal exam. Diabetic retinopathy is one of the leading causes of blindness, but it’s often preventable and treatable when caught early.
We’re beyond thankful to Dr. Chung and the SNU Eye Clinic team for guiding us through a very scary time with world-class care. If you’re looking for a trusted clinic in Korea that understands both the medical and emotional sides of treatment, I can’t recommend them enough.
This is a topic I never thought I’d need to understand—until my dad, who’s had type 2 diabetes for nearly 20 years, started having trouble reading and mentioned he was seeing “dark patches” in his vision. We initially chalked it up to age or eye strain, but something didn’t feel right. That gut feeling turned out to be spot-on: he was developing diabetic retinopathy—a condition we had barely heard about, but one that can cause permanent vision loss if untreated.
That was the beginning of a journey that led us all the way to Seoul, South Korea, and eventually to SNU Eye Clinic and Dr. Chung Eui Sang—an experience that quite literally saved my dad’s sight.
The Diagnosis
When we first visited a general eye doctor back home, they confirmed some retinal changes, but told us it was “too early to worry.” That didn’t sit right with me. I did a deep dive online, read stories from others, and learned that early diabetic retinopathy can be sneaky—with no pain, and often no symptoms until damage is well underway.
That’s when I started looking into eye specialists in Korea, known for their advanced screening tools and patient-centered care. SNU Eye Clinic came up again and again, especially Dr. Chung Eui Sang, whose work in diabetic retinopathy management is highly respected. So we flew to Seoul for a second opinion—and honestly, I’m so glad we did.
At SNU, the diagnostic process was incredibly thorough:
- They started with a dilated eye exam and optical coherence tomography (OCT) to look at the layers of the retina.
- Then they used fluorescein angiography, where a special dye was injected to highlight any leaking blood vessels in the retina.
The results were crystal clear: early-stage non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
The Management Plan
Dr. Chung sat down with us, not just as a doctor but almost like a coach. He explained that while there was no immediate emergency, action was essential to prevent worsening. Here’s what the treatment plan looked like:
- Tight Glycemic Control: The most important step. Dr. Chung coordinated with a diabetes specialist to ensure my dad’s blood sugar levels were better managed.
- Monitoring: We were scheduled for routine checkups every 3–6 months. They even offered virtual check-ins for international patients.
- Laser Therapy & Injections (if needed): Dr. Chung walked us through potential future options like anti-VEGF injections and laser photocoagulation. Thankfully, because we caught it early, we didn’t need those yet.
- Lifestyle Advice: He gave very practical, achievable tips on diet, exercise, and even stress reduction, all of which impact eye health more than we realized.
Why SNU Eye Clinic Made All the Difference
The clinic was modern, spotless, and felt more like a wellness center than a hospital. Their international patient services were flawless — fluent English-speaking coordinators, minimal wait times, and genuine care every step of the way.
Dr. Chung Eui Sang isn’t just a leading specialist — he’s compassionate, clear, and deeply invested in his patients’ long-term outcomes. He made sure we understood everything, never rushed us, and even followed up personally after we returned home.
Final Thoughts
If you or a loved one has diabetes, don’t wait for symptoms to show up. Diabetic retinopathy is one of those conditions that quietly damages your vision before you even realize it’s happening.
Early diagnosis and a personalized management plan are everything — and if you’re considering care in Korea, I highly recommend:
Clinic: SNU Eye Clinic Doctor: Dr. Chung Eui Sang
My dad still sends him postcards every few months. That’s how much this experience meant to us.