State of the Art Glaucoma Surgery with Your Naples Eye Doctors
Glaucoma has often been called the “silent thief of sight,” and for good reason. It can quietly damage vision over time without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. By the time you feel something is wrong, irreversible damage may have already occurred. Thankfully, at Naples Eye Physicians, your ophthalmologist in Naples, FL, our focus is on detecting glaucoma early and managing it effectively. For many patients, surgery and laser treatment become necessary steps when medications or lifestyle changes are no longer enough to control the pressure inside the eye.
Understanding Glaucoma and Eye Pressure
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). The pressure builds when fluid in the eye, called aqueous humor, doesn’t drain properly. Over time, this pressure damages the optic nerve fibers and narrows the visual field. The primary goal of all glaucoma treatments is to lower this pressure and prevent further loss.
When Is Surgery or Laser Treatment Needed?
For some patients, eye drops or oral medications are enough to keep pressure stable. When those methods don’t achieve the desired results, surgery or laser procedures may be recommended. The choice depends on the type of glaucoma, the stage of the disease, and the overall health of the eye.
Types of Laser Treatment
At Naples Eye Physicians, laser treatments are often the first step beyond medication. Two common procedures include:
● Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT): This technique is used for open-angle glaucoma. A laser is applied to the drainage tissue in the eye, helping it work more efficiently and allowing fluid to flow out more easily. The procedure is quick, relatively painless, and done in-office.
● Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI): This is typically used for angle-closure glaucoma. The laser creates a small hole in the iris to improve fluid flow and prevent sudden spikes in pressure.
Both procedures are designed to be minimally invasive and often require little to no recovery time.
Surgical Options for Advanced Cases
When laser treatments are not enough, or when glaucoma has progressed, surgical options may be considered. Common types include:
● Trabeculectomy: A small flap is created in the sclera (white of the eye) to help fluid drain.
● Glaucoma Drainage Implants: A tiny tube or shunt is placed in the eye to direct fluid to an external reservoir.
● Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): These newer procedures are less invasive than traditional surgery and often have shorter recovery times. MIGS may be combined with cataract surgery in eligible patients.
Glaucoma Surgery and Laser Treatment from an Ophthalmologist Near You
Facing glaucoma surgery or laser treatment can feel daunting, but it’s a decision grounded in prevention and protection. At Naples Eye Physicians, your ophthalmologist in Naples, FL, patients are guided through each step with clear information, careful evaluation, and individualized care. Call us at (239) 262-6288 for glaucoma surgery and laser treatment from an ophthalmologist near you.