Laser Treatment Options for Glaucoma

Laser Treatment is a minimally invasive option that can help lower eye pressure in certain types of glaucoma. Different laser procedures are used for different reasons—some help the eye’s natural drainage system work better (often used in open-angle glaucoma), such as Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), while others create a small opening to relieve blockage in narrow or “angle-closure” glaucoma (Laser Peripheral Iridotomy, or LPI). Your ophthalmologist will recommend the most appropriate laser based on the type of glaucoma and the structure of your eye.

Laser treatment may be used as an alternative to medications, or as an additional therapy when eye pressure is not adequately controlled.

When Laser Treatment Is Considered

Laser treatment may be recommended:

• When eye pressure remains elevated despite medication
• When medication side effects limit long-term use
• As an early treatment option in selected cases
• To reduce reliance on daily eye drops
• When the drainage angle is narrow or at risk of closing (where LPI may be advised)

The suitability of laser therapy depends on the type of glaucoma and individual clinical factors.

How Laser Treatment Works

Laser procedures target specific parts of the eye to improve fluid flow and lower eye pressure. These treatments are typically performed as an outpatient procedure and do not involve incisions.

Depending on the type of glaucoma, laser treatment may:

• Improve drainage through the eye’s natural outflow system (for example, SLT in open-angle glaucoma), or
• Create a small opening to help fluid move more freely and prevent pressure build-up in angle-closure risk (such as LPI)

Benefits and Limitations of Laser Treatment

Potential benefits of laser treatment may include:

• Reduced eye pressure
• Decreased need for medications
• Short recovery time

However, laser treatment may not be effective for all patients, and the pressure-lowering effect may diminish over time. Ongoing monitoring remains essential.

Follow-Up After Laser Treatment

After laser therapy, follow-up visits are important to:

• Assess eye pressure response
• Monitor optic nerve health
• Determine whether additional treatment is required

Laser treatment may be combined with medical therapy or followed by other treatment options if necessary.

Next Steps

Laser treatment may be an appropriate option for certain forms of glaucoma. An evaluation helps determine whether laser therapy is suitable, and which laser approach best matches your glaucoma type and treatment goals.