laser procedures

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After modern cataract with lens implant surgery, the back membrane of the cataract is left in place to support the lens implant. This membrane may become cloudy and cause blurred vision, and sometimes patients will see streaks or haloes around lights. These problems worsen with time. This can occur in up to 50% of people after cataract surgery, appearing anytime from immediately post-op to many years after the initial surgery. 

Fortunately, a modern YAG laser treatment can be done to open the cloudy membrane and clear the line of sight. Topical freezing drops are used and a contact lens is placed on the eye to focus the laser beam. There is no pain from the procedure and it takes less than 3 minutes. There is no restriction on physical activity or use of the eye after the procedure, and no eye patch is required. 

This is a laser surgery used for people with, or at risk for, narrow-angle glaucoma. The laser is used to make a small hole in the iris (colored part of the eye). This hole should let more fluid flow out through the drainage part of the eye which helps to maintain a normal pressure in the eye. Furthermore, it will help to prevent scar formation between the iris and cornea which can lead to progression of the glaucoma. 

Most individuals respond well to this, while others may require additional interventions to help manage their problem. Your response is determined by the type of narrow-angle glaucoma you have and the basic make-up of your eye. Even in cases where more work is required this is an important first step. 

SLT is used for patients with open angle types of glaucoma. The laser is utilized to treat the drainage system of the eye known as the trabecular meshwork, in order to improve the outflow of fluid from the eye. This type of laser surgery will be effective in some patients but not others. The procedure may be performed in one or two sessions. Nearly all patients find the procedure comfortable and pain free. The procedure generally takes less than 5 minutes.