Eye pressure (glaucoma) is an eye condition that can damage the optic nerve due to increased intraocular pressure, often progressing without symptoms in the early stages. Therefore, many people seek answers to questions like “how is laser treatment for eye pressure performed?” and “how is eye pressure treated?”. Various treatment options can be considered for controlling glaucoma, such as medication therapies, laser procedures, and surgical methods. Laser treatment for eye pressure is one of the methods that aim to regulate the drainage of intraocular fluid and can be part of the treatment plan for some patients.
How is Eye Pressure Detected?
Regular eye examinations are necessary for diagnosing glaucoma in its early stage. Diagnosis is made through measuring intraocular pressure, optic nerve assessment, visual field tests, and imaging methods like OCT.
One commonly used test is the tonometry test, which measures the resistance of the intraocular fluid by applying slight pressure to the eye. Doctors perform this test after providing local anesthesia with eye drops.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a more advanced technology that uses light to capture detailed images of the retina, allowing doctors to identify any damage or abnormalities in the eye.
The pachymetry test measures the thickness of the cornea, which can assist in evaluating the risk of glaucoma.
Based on the results of all these tests, the specialist will assess whether the eye pressure is within the normal range.
How is Eye Pressure Treated?
The first step in treating eye pressure is medication. Medication can be in the form of drops or tablets and is decided to lower intraocular pressure. The aim of medication treatment is to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent damage to the optic nerve.
If medications are insufficient, the doctor may suggest laser treatment and surgical operation. In laser treatment, the drainage channels of the tears are opened to reduce pressure.
ALT
Argon laser therapy is a process of directing a laser beam to the trabecular mesh within the eye to create holes to expand the movement of the intraocular fluid. The treatment may help to reduce intraocular pressure.
SLT
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a treatment method that uses low-energy laser light targeted at the trabecular meshwork tissue. SLT damages the targeted cells to improve the outflow of intraocular fluid. It is a less invasive method compared to other laser therapies and can be reapplied.
Who is Suitable for Eye Pressure Laser Treatment?
The method to be applied in the treatment of eye pressure (glaucoma) is determined by the type of disease, the level of intraocular pressure, and the general eye health of the patient. Therefore, whether laser treatment is suitable or not should be planned by an eye diseases specialist after comprehensive eye examination and evaluation.
Generally, eye pressure laser treatment can be considered in the following situations:
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In patients whose intraocular pressure is not adequately controlled by medication
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In individuals who find it difficult to use eye drops regularly
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In patients diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma
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In cases where additional support treatment is needed alongside medication therapy
Laser treatment may not be suitable for every glaucoma patient. Therefore, the decision for treatment should be personalized by considering the patient’s eye structure, type of glaucoma, and progression of the disease.
Stages of Laser Treatment: How is Eye Pressure Laser Treatment Done?
Laser treatment for eye pressure is applied in certain stages to regulate the drainage of intraocular fluid. Before the procedure, the patient’s eye structure is assessed, and in appropriate cases, laser application can be planned.
1. Preparation Process
Before eye pressure laser treatment, the patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation. Intraocular pressure is measured, and eye structure is examined in detail. Before the procedure, eye drops that constrict the pupil are applied to the eyes. This ensures that the laser beam is correctly directed during the treatment. Eye drops providing local anesthesia are applied to ensure the procedure is painless. The patient remains awake during the procedure and does not feel any pain.
2. Laser Application
During the treatment, a specialized contact lens is placed on the patient’s eye, and this lens directs the laser beam to the target area. The wavelength and energy of the laser used may vary according to the choice of SLT or ALT laser method. The procedure generally takes 5 to 6 minutes for each eye. The laser beam aids in reducing pressure by affecting the channel structure that provides the outflow of intraocular fluid.
3. Post-Procedure Follow-Up
Immediately after the laser application, the patient's intraocular pressure is measured again. There may be a slight stinging and blurring sensation in the eye, but such effects typically disappear quickly.
Short-term corticosteroid drops may be prescribed to some patients to prevent mild inflammation that may occur after the treatment. The patient is usually discharged 1–2 hours after the procedure and called for a follow-up within a few weeks. This follow-up process is important to prevent vision loss and evaluate the success of the treatment.
What to Expect After Laser Treatment?
The healing process starts after eye laser treatment. A mild burning and itching sensation may be experienced within the first few hours, which is normal. During the healing process, you should take care not to rub your eyes.
You will notice a significant improvement in your vision from the first day of the treatment. However, full healing occurs within one week to a month. During this time, you should follow your doctor's instructions and attend the prescribed check-ups regularly.
What is expected after laser treatment can vary depending on the individual.
Is Eye Pressure Laser Treatment a Permanent Method?
A permanent cure for glaucoma cannot be achieved with laser treatment or with medications and surgical procedures. Therefore, glaucoma patients must remain under constant supervision by an eye doctor for the rest of their lives.
Are There Side Effects of Eye Pressure Laser Treatment?
Laser treatment for eye pressure results in minimal side effects. The severity of side effects can vary from person to person and is generally considered to pose no risk.
A slight inflammation may appear after the treatment, but this can be alleviated within a few days with anti-inflammatory drops. Sometimes, a very slight increase in intraocular pressure can occur after treatment. Short-term and minimal elevations are considered normal and can be controlled quickly with various medications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does eye pressure laser treatment hurt?
No, the procedure is painless and without discomfort. Before the treatment, a local anesthetic drop is used on the eye to prevent any sensation of discomfort during the procedure.
Does the use of drops end after laser treatment?
The use of eye pressure drops depends on the patient's response to treatment. In some patients, there may be no need for drops after laser treatment as intraocular pressure decreases; in others, continued use of drops might be necessary to support the treatment.
How long does eye pressure laser surgery take?
The duration of the procedure is quite short. The laser procedure generally takes 5-6 minutes for each eye; including preparations and final checks, the total duration can be around 30 minutes.
Can laser treatment be repeated?
The SLT method can be repeated if necessary, as it does not cause permanent damage to the eye tissue. However, Argon Laser treatment is performed only once; applying it to the same area a second time may pose a risk to the eye tissue.
Is further surgery needed after eye pressure laser treatment?
Eye pressure laser treatment may help some patients control intraocular pressure, but glaucoma is a chronic disease that requires regular follow-up. The effect of laser treatment may diminish over time, and additional treatment methods or surgeries may be needed in some cases. The treatment process is assessed by an eye diseases specialist according to the patient's condition.
