Modern Glaucoma Treatments: Beyond Daily Eye Drops
Glaucoma care has moved past a drops-only mindset. Many doctors now start with in-office lasers and small-incision procedures that safely lower eye pressure while cutting down on daily routines.
Why we often begin with SLT
Selective laser trabeculoplasty, or SLT, gently targets the eye’s natural drain so fluid can exit more easily. This lowers intraocular pressure without adding more bottles to your counter. SLT has a strong safety record, it is repeatable if pressure rises again, and many patients can reduce or even stop pressure-lowering drops after treatment. SLT is a medical procedure and is typically billable to medical insurance, not vision insurance. Coverage varies by plan, and we will help you confirm benefits before treatment.
Quick facts about an SLT visit
- Time in the chair is usually 5 to 10 minutes per eye.
- Numbing drops are used, no injections.
- Most people resume normal activities the same day.
- Pressure improvement is often seen over days to a few weeks.
- Results commonly last for years and can be refreshed later if needed.
What the appointment feels like
You will sit at a microscope similar to the one used for routine eye exams. After numbing drops, a small contact lens helps guide the laser to the drainage tissue. Mild blur for a few hours is common. We will schedule follow-up pressure checks to confirm your response.
Who may be a good candidate
SLT is frequently recommended for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It is a practical choice for people who want dependable pressure control with less day-to-day maintenance.
Watch SLT in action
See how SLT works and what to expect during the treatment.
When more pressure lowering is needed
If SLT does not reach the target pressure by itself, or if cataract surgery is already planned, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery can be added. These procedures use very small openings to improve the eye’s natural drain or create a gentle new path for fluid to leave the eye, aiming for steady pressure control with a quicker recovery than traditional surgery.
More ways to lower eye pressure
These small-incision procedures can be added if you need more pressure control or are having cataract surgery.
- Tiny stents that help the eye’s drain stay open so fluid exits more easily.
- A brief trimming of the clogged filter tissue inside the eye to reduce blockage.
- A gentle cleaning and widening of the main drainage channel to restore flow.
- For eyes that need a bigger drop in pressure, a very small shunt on the eye’s surface that directs fluid to a safe reservoir.
A plan designed for you
Recommendations are based on your diagnosis, the stage of disease, your target pressure, and whether cataract surgery is part of the plan. Our goal is the same in every case, protect vision with the least burden on your daily life.
Next step
If you have glaucoma or elevated eye pressure, SLT may be a safe and effective first step. Call us today to book your exam.
