SLT in Lake Worth, FL

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that causes excess intraocular pressure within the eye. Without early detection and preventive treatment, it could permanently damage your eyesight and cause partial or total vision loss. For patients who have glaucoma, it may seem overwhelming to hear this diagnosis. However, at Palm Beach Eye Center, our ophthalmologists offer innovative treatments for managing glaucoma, including selective laser trabeculoplasty in Lake Worth, FL. We use laser-assisted technology to reduce intraocular pressure and prevent long-term damage to your optic nerve. Known for its safe and effective results, SLT has helped patients decrease glaucoma symptoms for the last 20 years. Reduce your need for prescription medications and preserve your eyesight by calling our eye center in Lake Worth, FL to learn more.

One of the main benefits of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is that it helps to save your current eyesight that might otherwise be impacted by glaucoma instead of just improving sight that's already begun to fade. SLT works as a form of preventative treatment to maintain your sight. SLT may also lower eye pressure by around 20 – 30%, and you can begin to see results around three months following your treatment. The laser effect can last for several years, but it does fade over time. However, your eye can be stimulated again to repeat the treatment. If you are a new glaucoma patient or you are looking for ways to save your eyesight, contact our team. We will discuss the treatment with you so that you understand all your options.

If you have ocular hypertension, you may be a great candidate for SLT laser treatment. Additionally, you may be a qualifying candidate for SLT if you experience:

• Primary or secondary open-angle glaucoma
• Pigmentary or juvenile glaucoma
• Intolerance to glaucoma medications
• A failed history with argon laser therapy (ALT)

If you fit into any of these categories, our Palm Beach Eye Center staff can help you determine if SLT for glaucoma is right for you.

Selective laser trabeculoplasty in Lake Worth, FL works best for patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma. It can also help patients who have tried more conservative options, like eye drops. After completing a comprehensive consultation and developing a treatment plan, we can perform SLT as an outpatient procedure. During this time, we use targeted laser energy to precisely treat excess eye drainage in an area of eye tissue called the trabecular meshwork. Excess fluid buildup causes an increase in eye pressure and damages the optic nerve. To reduce problems associated with this issue, the laser makes “micro-injuries” and stimulates your body’s natural healing process. This process allows the fluid to flow naturally out of the eye through the drainage channels and lowers your eye pressure. After your treatment, you may have fuzzy vision for 1 – 2 days, and the symptom will subside on its own. Generally, it takes a couple of months to see your final results because your eye needs time during the healing process.

One of the great things about SLT is there is virtually no recovery or downtime. Aside from possible blurry vision and irritation for a day or two, you can get right back to work, school, or your other daily activities after your treatment. Your ophthalmologist may prescribe eye drops to ward off infection and promote healing. A follow-up appointment is typically scheduled after the procedure to assess the IOP and check for symptoms of glaucoma. If you have any questions about selective laser trabeculoplasty recovery, please do not hesitate to ask our team prior to your procedure.

Will I still need glaucoma medications after SLT?
Once you have your SLT procedure, you may experience freedom from glaucoma medication. While many patients do experience freedom from medication, some patients may still require medication. It varies from person to person and we will help you determine if you will still need glaucoma medications after your treatment over time.

Does SLT hurt?
SLT is a quick 15-minute outpatient procedure. We do use anesthetic drops to help you remain comfortable during your procedure. Many of our patients find that if they experience any discomfort, the results are worth it.

How does SLT lower my IOP?
The precise laser used during a SLT procedure only targets pigmented cells in the trabecular meshwork of the eye. This allows for increased drainage of fluid from the eye, thus reducing your intraocular pressure.

Our compassionate eye doctors at Palm Beach Eye Center have extensive experience helping patients manage glaucoma. If you have prescription eye drops or medications but need a slightly more aggressive treatment, you may benefit from SLT. Located in South Florida and near Delray Beach, FL, please schedule an appointment with one of our expert ophthalmologists to learn more about glaucoma treatments such as selective laser trabeculoplasty in Lake Worth, FL.