Modern Glaucoma Care: Beyond Daily Eye Drops
Glaucoma care has moved well beyond a drops-only approach. Many doctors now begin with in-office lasers and tiny-incision procedures that safely reduce eye pressure while simplifying day-to-day routines.
Why we often begin with SLT
Selective laser trabeculoplasty, or SLT, activates the eye’s natural drainage tissue so fluid leaves the eye more easily. That lowers intraocular pressure without adding more bottles to your counter. SLT has a strong safety record, can be repeated if pressure rises again, and many people reduce or even stop pressure-lowering drops after treatment. SLT is a medical procedure and is typically billable to medical insurance rather than vision insurance. Coverage varies by plan, and we will help you confirm benefits before treatment.
Quick facts about an SLT visit
- Typical chair time is about 5 to 10 minutes per eye.
- Numbing drops are used. No injections.
- Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
- Pressure changes are usually seen within days to a few weeks.
- Benefits often last for years and can be refreshed with another treatment if needed.
What the appointment feels like
You will sit at a microscope similar to the one used during a routine eye exam. After numbing drops, a small contact lens is placed to 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 commonly recommended for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It suits 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 treatment.
When more pressure lowering is needed
If SLT alone does not reach your target pressure, or if cataract surgery is planned, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery can be added. These procedures use very small openings to support the eye’s natural drainage or create a gentle alternate pathway, 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 trim of the clogged filter tissue inside the eye to reduce blockage.
- Gentle cleaning and widening of the main drainage channel to restore smoother flow.
- For eyes that need a bigger drop in pressure, a very small surface shunt 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.
