Just diagnosed with glaucoma?
That sinking feeling — “Am I going blind?” — is real.
You’re not alone. Glaucoma ranks among the top causes of permanent blindness worldwide. But here’s what most doctors won’t tell you up front: there are quick, low-risk laser treatments that can slow or stop it — and they don’t require surgery, stitches, or a hospital stay.
And unlike what you might expect, these aren’t risky or experimental. These are safe, FDA-approved outpatient procedures that can make a huge difference in how your glaucoma progresses.
Let’s learn what types of glaucoma laser surgeries are available, who they’re for, how they work, and whether one of them could help you keep your vision longer.
When it comes to glaucoma, early action makes a big difference.
What Is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma isn’t one disease — it’s several conditions that can damage the nerve that sends images from your eye to your brain.
The biggest cause?
High pressure inside the eye (called intraocular pressure or IOP).
Usually, your eye makes fluid and drains it out. But if the fluid doesn’t drain properly, pressure builds up, putting stress on your optic nerve, leading to irreversible vision loss.
Among the different types of glaucoma, these two are the most widely diagnosed:
- Open-angle glaucoma: The drainage system works, but not fast enough. It’s slow, sneaky, and most people don’t feel symptoms until their vision is already compromised.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: It involves a sudden blockage in the eye’s drainage system. It’s urgent — delay in treatment can result in permanent blindness.
Check out this helpful post for more details on symptoms and early warning signs.
How Does Laser Eye Surgery Help?
Laser surgery doesn’t “cure” glaucoma, but it does lower eye pressure by helping the fluid drain better or reducing the amount of fluid your eye makes.
And here’s the best part — it’s usually an outpatient procedure. That means no hospital stay, minimal recovery time, and little to no pain.
There are five key laser procedures used to treat glaucoma. Let’s go through them one by one.
1. Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
- Best for: Open-angle glaucoma
- How it works: A laser targets the eye’s drainage system (the trabecular meshwork) and improves its function without damaging the tissue.
- Why it’s popular: It’s safe, quick (about 10 minutes), and doesn’t involve cutting or stitches.
- Bonus: SLT can be repeated. If pressure starts creeping back up months or years later, the treatment can be repeated.
It’s good to know that SLT is increasingly being used before eye drops. That’s because it is so effective and safe.
2. Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT)
- Best for: Open-angle glaucoma
- How it works: Like SLT, this procedure targets the drainage meshwork but uses an argon laser instead. It creates tiny burns to help fluid drain more effectively.
- Downsides: Can’t be repeated like SLT. It causes more thermal damage to the tissue.
- Today, ALT is being replaced by SLT in many clinics due to lower risk and better repeatability.
3. Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)
- Best for: Angle-closure glaucoma
- How it works: A laser creates a tiny hole in the iris (the colored part of your eye), allowing fluid to flow again and relieving pressure.
- Doctors often turn to this procedure during emergencies to prevent angle-closure in vulnerable individuals.
4. Cyclophotocoagulation (CPC)
- Best for: Advanced glaucoma or failed surgeries
- How it works: Targets and partially destroys the ciliary body (the part of the eye that makes fluid). Less fluid = less pressure.
- Types:
- Traditional CPC: It involves more invasion and a greater chance of inflammation.
- Micropulse CPC (MP-CPC): Uses gentle bursts. Fewer side effects.
Because this is more aggressive, it’s typically used when other options haven’t worked.
5. Micropulse Laser Trabeculoplasty (MLT) – gentle but powerful
- Best for: Open-angle glaucoma
- How it works: A newer method that uses rapid “pulses” of laser instead of one intense beam. It treats the eye in a more controlled, low-heat way.
- Why it matters: Less tissue damage and inflammation; can be repeated like SLT.
Which Laser Surgery Is Best?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your doctor will consider:
- Type of glaucoma (open-angle vs. angle-closure)
- How high your IOP is
- Whether medications are working
- Your age, eye structure, and lifestyle
- How far the disease has progressed
SLT or MLT are great starting points for most people with open-angle glaucoma. When it comes to angle-closure, LPI is considered the top choice.
If you’re further along or other laser treatments have failed, CPC or MP-CPC might be recommended.
Curious about the best LASIK eye surgery choice for you? Our glaucoma experts will guide you with a custom plan—book your consultation today.
Laser Eye Surgery: What Happens Before, During, and After
Before
- Quick eye exam and pressure check
- Eye drops might be used to get your eyes ready
During
- You’ll be awake
- No pain, just a light or mild pressure
- 5–15 minutes max
After
- Mild redness or irritation for a day or two
- You can go home right away
- Vision might be blurry for a few hours
- Follow-up visit in a few days
Most people are back to normal the next day.
Risks and Side Effects: What You Should Know
Glaucoma laser surgery is generally safe. But like any procedure, there are risks:
- Inflammation
- Temporary rise in IOP (usually lasts a few hours)
- Mild discomfort
- Rarely: vision changes or long-term complications
Always ask your doctor to explain both the risks and benefits for your case.
The Bottom Line
Laser surgery might sound like a big step, but the small change could save your sight.
Your vision is too valuable to put off, and when it comes to something as critical as your eyesight, experience matters.
For over two decades, Southwest Florida Eye Care has supported patients in protecting their vision. Our board-certified ophthalmologists and optometrists offer the latest in glaucoma surgery treatments — from SLT and LPI to advanced techniques like Micropulse CPC.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with glaucoma — or is at risk — let’s talk.
Don’t wait until your vision starts slipping. Talk to a board-certified glaucoma specialist at Southwest Florida Eye Care. Thousands have trusted us to safeguard their vision — you can too.
Contact us today and book your glaucoma consultation.
**Disclaimer: This blog is for general informational purposes only. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please speak with a qualified eye care provider to discuss your specific diagnosis and treatment needs.**
