Advancing Glaucoma Treatment: Beyond Daily Drops
Glaucoma treatment today extends far beyond eye drops. Many specialists now turn first to in-office laser options and minimally invasive techniques that lower pressure effectively while easing the need for multiple daily medications.
Why SLT is often our first step
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) carefully treats the eye’s natural drainage system to improve outflow. This reduction in eye pressure doesn’t rely on adding more drops to your routine. SLT is well studied, safe, repeatable, and for many patients it allows fewer—or sometimes no—pressure-lowering medications. Because it is a medical procedure, SLT is usually billed to medical insurance. Benefits vary by plan, and our team will review your coverage before moving forward.
SLT visit at a glance
- Treatment time is typically 5–10 minutes per eye.
- Only numbing drops are needed—no injections.
- Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
- Pressure changes are usually seen within days to a few weeks.
- Results often last years and can be repeated if needed.
What to expect during the procedure
You will be seated at a microscope similar to those used in routine exams. After numbing drops are applied, a small lens directs the laser to the drainage tissue. Mild blurriness for a few hours is normal. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to confirm how your pressure responds.
Who may benefit
SLT is commonly offered to patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. It is a reliable option for those seeking steady pressure control without the constant routine of multiple drops.
See SLT in action
Watch how SLT works and what happens during the procedure.
When additional pressure lowering is needed
If SLT alone doesn’t reach the target pressure, or if cataract surgery is already scheduled, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) can be performed at the same time. These procedures create tiny openings to enhance the natural drainage or provide a new pathway, aiming for lasting control with a quicker recovery than traditional surgery.
Other options for pressure control
Several small-incision approaches can be considered as standalone procedures or during cataract surgery:
- Micro-stents that keep the natural drain open for better fluid outflow.
- Removing a portion of blocked tissue inside the eye to reduce resistance.
- Clearing and widening the main drainage channel to improve flow.
- For eyes needing larger pressure drops, a small surface shunt can direct fluid to a safe reservoir.
Personalized treatment plan
Your care plan depends on your diagnosis, stage of disease, target pressure, and whether cataract surgery is included. Our goal is always the same: protecting your vision while minimizing impact on your daily routine.
Next step
If you have glaucoma or high eye pressure, SLT could be a safe and effective starting point. Call us today to schedule your evaluation.
