LASER FOR GLAUCOMA
OVERVIEW
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that causes loss of vision and eventual blindness, most commonly due to raised intraocular pressure in the eye. This high pressure damages the optic nerve behind the eye. Laser treatment, known as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), is used to lower the pressure in certain patients who have open-angle glaucoma.
Laser eye surgery, a safe in-office medical procedure, is performed to resolve certain types of glaucoma. It works by allowing fluid to drain steadily from the eye, thereby reducing intraocular pressure. If you are unsure about laser eye treatment, remember that our highly skilled ophthalmologist is always available to help put you at ease and guide you through the process.
What can I expect with laser eye treatment for glaucoma?
During the procedure, the ophthalmologist will use a speculum to keep the eye open and administer numbing eye drops. A beam of light (laser) will be directed into the eye to facilitate drainage by unclogging the trabecular meshwork. Patients can rest assured that they may go back to their normal routine a day after the procedure, minimising any potential disruption to their daily life.
In other types of glaucoma, where there is a blockage of fluid drainage channels by the iris (closed-angle glaucoma), a laser can be used to create a small hole in the iris to allow for the drainage of fluid from the back of the eye to the front, relieving the pressure build-up behind the iris.
Can I expect any adverse effects from the procedure?
Like any procedure, laser eye treatment may carry side effects. These can include soreness, swelling, and temporary changes in vision. The pain usually dissipates as the cornea is given sufficient time to heal.
Our ophthalmologist, a highly trained professional and expert in laser eye surgery, performs surgery with a high level of accuracy and precision, thereby instilling confidence in our patients and minimising the chance of potential adverse effects.