Laser treatment for glaucoma
glaucoma laser · SLT laser · selective laser trabeculoplasty · laser iridotomy
The doctor uses a laser to help fluid drain out of the eye better. This lowers the pressure in the eye.
For glaucoma or high eye pressure, and for a narrow drainage angle, to prevent an attack.
⏱ Duration: the procedure itself usually takes 5 to 15 minutes, about an hour with preparation
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Drops. Do not stop your glaucoma drops on your own. Ask your doctor whether to use them that day.
- Getting there. Vision may be blurry afterward. Best to come with someone.
What to bring
- Your eye drops
- Your ID
- Sunglasses
- Someone to take you home
How it goes
- The eye is numbed with drops, sometimes the pupil is narrowed or widened
- You sit at the machine with your chin on a stand
- A lens is placed on your eye
- The doctor gives laser pulses, and you see flashes
- The lens is removed
- After a while, your eye pressure is checked
What you'll feel
- Flashes of light, sometimes clicks
- Mild discomfort, sometimes a headache
- Blurry vision for a few hours
Afterwards
- Use the prescribed drops, and your own drops as your doctor says
- Come for pressure checks on time
- The laser's effect is judged after a few weeks
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Severe eye pain, headache, nausea, or rainbow rings around lights: call emergency services or see an eye doctor urgently
- A sudden drop in vision
Common questions
Can I stop my drops after the laser?
Sometimes you need fewer drops, but only your doctor decides.
Will the laser cure glaucoma?
Glaucoma is lifelong. The laser helps keep the pressure normal.
Will it need to be repeated?
Sometimes the effect fades over time, and it is repeated.