Treatment
Glaucoma laser surgery
Medical reviewer Mr Mohamed Mohyudin, Consultant Ophthalmic SurgeonArticle reviewed
About this review
The reviewer checked the version identified in this article’s review record.
What is glaucoma laser surgery?
Laser surgery for glaucoma aims to lower eye pressure to protect the optic nerve. Unlike incisional glaucoma surgery, it uses a laser applied to the eye's drainage system or, in angle-closure glaucoma, to the iris. It is often used when eye drops are not controlling pressure well enough, cause side effects, or are difficult to use.
Common types
The type of laser depends on your kind of glaucoma.
- SLT (selective laser trabeculoplasty) for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension
- Laser peripheral iridotomy to create a small hole in the iris in angle-closure glaucoma
- Laser cyclophotocoagulation for advanced glaucoma when other treatments have not worked
What happens on the day of glaucoma laser surgery?
The procedure is usually done in an outpatient clinic with numbing drops.
- Drops to numb the eye and sometimes to prevent pressure spikes
- A contact lens placed gently on the eye to focus the laser
- A few minutes of laser treatment, which may feel like brief flashes or mild discomfort
- Anti-inflammatory drops afterwards and a check of eye pressure
What to expect from glaucoma laser surgery
Eye pressure often falls over days to weeks, though drops may still be needed. SLT can be repeated if the effect wears off. Serious complications are uncommon, but you may have temporary blurring, light sensitivity, or inflammation, which your clinician will monitor.
Conditions this can help
Frequently asked questions
Is glaucoma laser surgery painful?
The eye is numbed with drops, so most people feel only brief flashes or mild discomfort rather than pain. Any soreness or light sensitivity afterwards is usually mild and short-lived.
How effective is laser treatment for glaucoma?
SLT lowers eye pressure in many people, often for several years, though the effect can wear off and the laser may be repeated. It does not restore vision already lost from glaucoma, but it helps protect the sight you have.
Can I stop eye drops after glaucoma laser?
Some people need fewer drops or none for a time, but many still need ongoing treatment. Your eye specialist will check your pressure and adjust your plan rather than stopping drops without guidance.
Sources for this information
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