What is Laser Treatment
Laser is a ubiquitous term with energy being focused and directed to different parts of the eye, for different indications. Laser is used medically in a variety of different ways for management of certain glaucoma or ‘after cataract’.
- A small laser hole can be created in the iris to prevent acute glaucoma. This is called a peripheral iridotomy and is useful in patients with narrow drainage angles (please read more)
- If the drainage angles are open, selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) can be used to reduce the pressure and prevent the need of glaucoma drops.
- 20% of patients after cataract surgery, require a top up laser ‘polish’ of the capsule. This posterior capsulotomy increases the clarity and sharpness of vision.
What does it involve?
The laser is connected to a slit-lamp, similar to the one used for eye assessments. Hence laser is performed in a sitting position at the slit lamp. Drops alone are used to numb the eyes, ensuring complete comfort during the procedure. Laser is not invasive, as no cuts are made to the eye. Hence there is no risk of infection and no antibiotics are required.
Recovery
Recovery after laser is very rapid. After most types of laser, a short course of post operative steroid drops is given to reduce any inflammation. You will be able to go back to work after the procedure.