Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness worldwide. It often occurs when increased pressure inside the eye damages the optic nerve, leading to gradual vision loss, affecting the peripheral vision, if left untreated. Traditionally, glaucoma has been managed with prescribed eye drops, but advances in treatment now offer patients an additional treatment, Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT).

At Vision Care Clinic, we are proud to provide this innovative procedure, helping patients protect their sight with safe, effective, and convenient care.

What Is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)?

SLT is a modern, minimally invasive laser treatment for glaucoma. It works by targeting the eye’s trabecular meshwork – the part responsible for draining fluid from the eye. By enhancing the natural drainage process, SLT can lower intraocular pressure (IOP), reducing the risk of optic nerve damage and vision loss.

Unlike surgical procedures, SLT is non-invasive and performed entirely in the clinic as an outpatient treatment.

Why Is SLT Considered First-Line Treatment?

In the past, glaucoma treatment usually started with eye drops. However, clinical research has shown that SLT is just as effective and in some cases, even more effective at lowering eye pressure. For this reason, SLT is now considered a first-line treatment for many types of glaucoma, including open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of the disease.

Benefits of choosing SLT include:

Quick procedure – typically completed in under 15 minutes.

Pain-free – numbing drops are used, so patients feel little to no discomfort.

Outpatient treatment – no hospital stay required.

Long-lasting results – the pressure-lowering effect can last several years.

Repeatable – the procedure can be safely repeated if needed in the future.

What to Expect During SLT at Vision Care Clinic

Preparation: Before the procedure, numbing eye drops are applied to ensure comfort and sometimes additional drops are used to decrease the size of the pupil, for ease of treatment

The Procedure: A special laser is directed at the trabecular meshwork, which is found at the edge of the iris. The laser energy stimulates the tissue to improve fluid drainage.

Aftercare: Most patients can return to normal activities the same day. Eye pressure will be monitored at follow-up visits to ensure the treatment is working effectively.

Can SLT Replace Glaucoma Eye Drops?

For many patients, SLT eliminates or significantly reduces the need for daily eye drops. However, in some cases, it may be used in conjunction with medication for the best pressure control. Your glaucoma specialist at Vision Care Clinic, Mr Demitri Manasses, will create a tailored treatment plan based on your unique needs.

Is SLT Right for You?

SLT is suitable for many people with glaucoma, but not everyone. It is most effective in open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension, though other types may also benefit. A consultation with our specialist team will determine whether SLT is the right treatment for you.

SLT at Vision Care Clinic

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) offers patients a quick, safe, and highly effective way to lower eye pressure and protect their vision. At Vision Care Clinic, our experienced team provides advanced glaucoma review and treatments, including SLT, tailored to each patient’s individual needs.

If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma or are looking for alternatives to daily eye drops, book a consultation with Vision Care Clinic today to learn whether SLT could be the right choice for you.