SLT for Glaucoma
Glaucoma treatment has progressed beyond relying on daily drops alone. Many physicians now begin care with in-office lasers and very small-incision procedures that safely reduce eye pressure while keeping everyday life simple.
Why SLT is a strong first step
Selective laser trabeculoplasty, or SLT, boosts the performance of the eye’s natural drainage tissue so fluid leaves more easily. That lowers intraocular pressure without adding more medications. SLT has a well-established safety record, can be repeated if pressure trends upward, and many people reduce or even stop pressure-lowering drops after treatment. SLT is a medical procedure and is typically billed to medical insurance rather than vision insurance. Coverage varies by plan, and our team will help confirm your benefits in advance.
SLT at a glance
- About 5 to 10 minutes per eye.
- Numbing drops only. No injections.
- Most patients return to normal activities the same day.
- Pressure lowering is usually seen within days to a few weeks.
- Benefits commonly last for years and can be refreshed if needed.
What your visit is like
You will sit at a microscope similar to a routine eye exam. After numbing drops, a small contact lens helps guide the laser to the drainage tissue. Mild blur for several hours is common. We will schedule follow-up pressure checks to measure your response.
Who may be a good candidate
SLT is commonly recommended for open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. It is a practical option for people who want reliable pressure control with less day-to-day maintenance.
Watch SLT in action
See how SLT works and what to expect during treatment.
If you need additional pressure lowering
When SLT alone does not reach the target pressure, or if cataract surgery is planned, we can add minimally invasive glaucoma procedures. These use tiny openings to support the eye’s natural drain 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 support stents that help keep the eye’s drain open so fluid leaves more easily.
- A brief internal trim of blocked filter tissue to reduce resistance.
- Gentle widening and flushing of the main drainage canal to restore smoother flow.
- A very small surface shunt for eyes that need a larger pressure drop, routing fluid to a safe reservoir under the eyelid.
A plan designed for you
Treatment is tailored to your diagnosis, stage of disease, target pressure, and any cataract surgery plans. 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 evaluation.
