About Glaucoma Laser Treatment
Glaucoma is a category of eye conditions that can deteriorate the eye's optic nerve, which is responsible for sending visual impulses to the brain. The disease is nearly always caused by high intraocular pressure from built-up fluid. If not addressed early enough, glaucoma can lead to blind spots and/or total blindness so we recommend seeking treatment as soon as possible. The board-certified ophthalmologists at Kirk Eye Center utilize a number of advanced laser treatments to address a variety of types of glaucoma. We invite you to contact our office in River Forest or Gurnee, IL to schedule your consultation, and find out if you are a candidate for one of our glaucoma laser procedures.
Is Laser Treatment Right for Me?
If you are diagnosed with open angle glaucoma, selective laser trabeculoplasty is an excellent first line option to help control glaucoma, especially in patients where eye drops are not a practical or appealing option. Alternatively, if you have narrow or closed angle glaucoma, a laser peripheral iridotomy may be essential to help control your condition. We offer specific lasers to treat different types of glaucoma so our team will perform a comprehensive eye health assessment to determine which treatment is best for you. Your treatment will depend on the severity of your glaucoma (open-angle, closed-angle, secondary, etc.). It's vital to have glaucoma treated as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your vision.
How is Laser Treatment Done?
At Kirk Eye Center, our skilled team uses top-of-the-line technology to address various types of glaucoma. We offer multiple laser-assisted glaucoma treatments based on your specific condition:
- Laser peripheral iridotomy (LPI): A laser iridotomy is a type of laser surgery that is used for narrow-angle glaucoma or for those who are potentially at risk for closed-angle glaucoma. A small hole is created in the iris to allow fluid to drain out, which helps lower eye pressure.
- Laser trabeculoplasty: We offer selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), which targets the trabecular meshwork of the eye using light energy. This helps increase the flow of drainage. SLT does not damage tissue, has a quick recovery and works as well as our first line eye drop therapies in over 80% of patients. SLT is used in patients with open angle glaucoma.
Kirk Eye Center Reviews
Great overall experience with my Lasik procedure for both my eyes. Dr. Kirk & the staff were fantastic throughout the entire process. I'm so pumped that I don't have to wear contacts or glasses ever again!
This is the second time I’ve been to Kirk Eye Center on Harlem. I could not be more pleased. I’ve never had to wait more than a minute or 2 after I arrive. Everyone is friendly and helpful. I’ve seen the technician Rose and Dr Kirk Jr both times and enjoyed being assisted by both. There is even plenty of parking. Glad to have them caring for my diabetic and other needs
This is absolutely no exaggeration. Dr Tyler Kirk saved my right eye. He is the reason I have vision in that eye. I will be a Kirk Eye Center customer for life!
Gurnee Kirk is my "go to home office". Recently had the Femto/Lasik cataract surgery at the surgical center in River Forest. I cannot begin to tell you how professional and yet personal everyone was I came in contact with. From the doctors and technicians, to staff and even the terrific van driver. Everything went so smoothly and I was informed every inch of the way in a very successful procedure. Even the followups being turned over to my long time Optometrist just down the street from me. Five stars is not enough... twenty or more is necessary. Choose Kirk Eye Center, you'll always be grateful you did. Darrell May, Antioch IL.
Had cataract surgery on both eyes and they took very good care of me would highly recommend them.
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Glaucoma Laser Treatment Follow-Up
Following your laser glaucoma treatment, you will be observed for a brief period to make sure you are in optimal health before being sent home. A member of our team will provide any follow-up instructions, in addition to detailed aftercare guidelines to help ensure proper healing. In addition, you will need to attend follow-up visits at our office so we can monitor your eye health.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does glaucoma laser treatment work to lower eye pressure?
Glaucoma laser treatment targets specific structures in the eye to improve fluid drainage or reduce fluid production. This helps lower intraocular pressure, which is critical to prevent further damage to the optic nerve. The type of laser treatment you receive depends on your specific needs; for example, some lasers open the drainage angle, while others reduce fluid production. Each treatment is tailored to help manage your glaucoma more effectively.
Does the procedure hurt?
Most patients report little to no pain during glaucoma laser treatment. Your eye will be numbed with drops before the procedure to ensure your comfort. You might feel a mild pressure sensation or see bright flashes of light from the laser, but these sensations are typically brief and tolerable. After the procedure, some people experience mild irritation, but this usually resolves quickly.
Is glaucoma laser treatment effective long-term?
Glaucoma laser treatment is generally effective, but the results may vary from person to person. For many patients, the benefits last several years, significantly lowering eye pressure and reducing the risk of disease progression. However, the effect of the laser may diminish over time, and additional treatments or medications may be needed. Regular follow-ups are essential to track your eye health and make any necessary adjustments.
Regain Your Eye Health
Reducing eye pressure is the most effective method known to treat glaucoma. The board-certified ophthalmologists at Kirk Eye Center offer a number of laser-assisted procedures to manage the symptoms of glaucoma. It is important to get treatment as soon as possible so we encourage you to contact our office in River Forest or Gurnee, IL for a consultation if you have noticed any abnormalities in your vision.
