Glaucoma laser surgery, also known as selective laser trabeculoplasty or SLT, has been used for more than 25 years across the world by glaucoma specialists to help lower intraocular or eye pressure in individuals with glaucoma. People who do not see any improvements in their eye pressure with regular use of eye drops and are witnessing significant side effects are often advised to opt for glaucoma laser surgery. That said, consulting your glaucoma specialist can help you better understand your options for the procedure. Continuing on the subject, we discuss a few commonly asked questions about glaucoma laser surgery. Read on!
1. Who is Eligible for the Glaucoma Laser Surgery?
Individuals whose drainage system in the eye is open and are suffering from primary or secondary open-angle glaucoma are eligible to go for laser treatments to lower their IOP. Generally speaking, individuals who have already tried non-surgical methods and have seen poor improvement are often eligible to undergo the laser surgery.
2. What Happens During Glaucoma Laser Surgery?
During glaucoma surgery, doctors apply laser energy to the eye’s drainage tissue of individuals with glaucoma to start a biological and chemical change that allows efficient drainage of fluid from the eye. Although the entire process helps in lowering the IOP and curing glaucoma in most of the cases, there may be chances that individuals need to take medicines and use eye drops after the glaucoma eye surgery to lower their eye pressure and get rid of the condition.
3. What are the Risks Associated With Glaucoma Laser Surgery?
Generally speaking, glaucoma laser surgery is a risk-free procedure. In some cases, though, a mild inflammation in eyes can be experienced. Using anti-inflammatory drugs or eye drops as prescribed by the glaucoma specialist will be helpful. Approximately five percent of individuals may witness elevation in IOP after laser surgery, which can be cured and managed by following prescribed medication for a certain period of time.
4. What Results Should be Expected After Glaucoma Laser Surgery?
While glaucoma laser surgery cures the condition in most cases, there may be chances wherein individuals that have undergone the surgery need to opt for extra IOP lowering therapy or take regular medications to maintain their eye pressure levels. Following up with post-surgical checkups and scheduling regular eye examinations can help identify any complications or the need for extra IOP lowering therapy.
Wrap Up
Glaucoma laser surgery can help reduce IOP levels in the eyes of individuals with open-angle glaucoma. As we said earlier, the surgery is effective in most cases, but can sometimes also tend to require extra IOP lowering therapy. If you or a loved one are looking for glaucoma treatment in Texas and nearby places, reach out to a reputable glaucoma specialist in Waxahachie, Texas. You can also consult an ophthalmologist online and get a quick word of advice from a trusted specialist.