Glaucoma Treatments
Glaucoma treatment focuses on reducing pressure within the eye to slow or prevent damage to the optic nerve.While vision already lost cannot be restored, early and ongoing treatment is highly effective in preserving remaining vision and maintaining long-term eye health.
How Is Glaucoma Treated?
Glaucoma is managed by lowering intraocular pressure (IOP) — the pressure inside the eye — which is the main factor contributing to optic nerve damage.
Treatment is tailored to the individual and may involve a combination of:
- Medications
- Laser therapy
- Surgical intervention
The approach depends on the type of glaucoma, its severity and how it responds over time.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Glaucoma treatment is not one-size-fits-all.
Your ophthalmologist will consider:
- The type and stage of glaucoma
- Your current eye pressure
- Rate of progression
- Lifestyle and ability to manage ongoing treatment
In many cases, a combination of treatments is used to achieve stable, long-term control.
Treatments
Eye Drops & Oral Medications
For many patients, treatment begins with prescription eye drops.
These medications work by either reducing the amount of fluid produced within the eye or improving its drainage, helping to lower intraocular pressure.
Some patients may require more than one type of drop to achieve adequate control. In certain situations – particularly when pressure needs to be reduced quickly – short-term oral medications may also be used.
Consistency with treatment is essential, as glaucoma is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management.
Laser Treatment (SLT)
Laser therapy is an effective and minimally invasive option for lowering eye pressure.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is commonly used to improve the drainage of fluid from the eye, reducing intraocular pressure without the need for daily medication in some cases.
The procedure is performed in the clinic and is well tolerated, with no incisions required. While the effect may reduce over time, the treatment can often be repeated if needed.
Laser treatment may be used as a first-line therapy or in combination with eye drops.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
In some patients, particularly those undergoing cataract surgery, small implants can be used to improve fluid drainage within the eye.
These procedures – often referred to as Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – are designed to lower intraocular pressure with less disruption to the eye than traditional glaucoma surgery.
Implants such as micro-stents create a more efficient drainage pathway, helping reduce reliance on medications.
Ongoing Care & Monitoring
Glaucoma requires lifelong monitoring.
Regular follow-up is essential to:
- Ensure eye pressure remains controlled
- Detect any progression early
- Adjust treatment as needed
With appropriate management, most patients are able to maintain good vision and quality of life.
A Long-Term Approach to Vision Preservation
While glaucoma cannot be cured, it can be effectively managed.
Early diagnosis, consistent treatment and ongoing care are key to protecting vision over time — allowing patients to continue daily activities with confidence.