Glaucoma Management & MIGS
What is Glaucoma?
Early Detection Saves Vision
Symptoms and When to Seek Care
Acute Angle-Closure Glaucoma (Medical Emergency)
If you experience these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Advanced Glaucoma
By the time symptoms appear, irreversible vision loss may have already occurred. This is why regular screening is so important.
Treatment Options
Medical Management
Laser Therapy
Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Advanced Surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose vision from glaucoma?
Early detection and appropriate treatment can prevent vision loss. Once the optic nerve is damaged, lost vision cannot be recovered. This is why regular screening and early treatment are essential. With proper management, most people with glaucoma maintain their vision throughout their lives.
Can I stop taking glaucoma drops if my pressure is controlled?
No. Glaucoma medications control pressure but do not cure the disease. Even if your pressure is well-controlled, you must continue treatment as prescribed. Stopping medications can cause pressure to rise again and lead to vision loss. Discuss any concerns about your medications with your eye doctor.
Is MIGS right for me if I don't have cataracts?
MIGS can be performed standalone without cataract surgery, though it's often recommended when both conditions exist. Standalone MIGS is an option for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma who want to reduce medication dependence. Your specialist will evaluate whether standalone MIGS is appropriate based on your eye pressure, optic nerve appearance, and glaucoma severity.
How long does it take to see results from treatment?
This varies by treatment type. Eye drops typically show results within 2–4 weeks. Laser therapy (SLT) reaches peak effectiveness at 6–8 weeks. MIGS shows progressive improvement over 3 months. Advanced surgical procedures often show immediate pressure reduction. Your specialist will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your response.
What happens if medications and laser therapy don't work?
If medical and laser treatments fail to control eye pressure adequately, or if you experience unacceptable side effects, surgical options like MIGS, trabeculectomy, or valve implants are available. These procedures offer more significant and often permanent pressure reduction. Your specialist will discuss the best surgical approach for your specific situation.
Are there any side effects from glaucoma medications?
Different glaucoma drops can cause different side effects. Common ones include eye redness, itching, drooping eyelids, darkening of eye color, and rashes. Some drops can affect heart rate or asthma. Most side effects are mild and well-tolerated, but if you experience bothersome side effects, tell your doctor. Many alternatives are available.
Can glaucoma be prevented?
While you cannot prevent glaucoma entirely, you can protect your vision through early detection. Regular comprehensive eye exams are the best prevention—they catch elevated eye pressure and early optic nerve changes before vision loss occurs. If you have risk factors (age 40+, family history, elevated pressure), ask your eye doctor about more frequent screening.
How often should I have eye exams if I have glaucoma?
Once diagnosed, glaucoma patients typically need exams every 3–6 months initially, then every 6–12 months depending on disease stability and treatment response. More frequent monitoring may be needed if pressure is not well-controlled or disease is progressing. Your specialist will create a schedule based on your individual situation.
