Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)

A Safe, Effective Laser Treatment to Help Lower Eye Pressure

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of permanent vision loss, but early treatment can help protect your sight. Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a safe, minimally invasive laser procedure designed to lower eye pressure by improving your eye's natural drainage system.

At Eye Care & Surgery, we offer advanced SLT treatment to help patients manage glaucoma and ocular hypertension, often reducing or eliminating the need for daily eye drops.

What Is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)?

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is an outpatient laser procedure used to treat open-angle glaucoma and ocular hypertension. The laser gently targets specific cells within the eye's drainage system (trabecular meshwork), stimulating the body's natural healing response to improve fluid outflow and lower intraocular pressure (IOP).

Because the laser selectively treats only targeted cells, the surrounding tissue is left unharmed, making the procedure safe and repeatable if necessary.

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Benefits of SLT

• Lowers intraocular pressure (IOP)
• Quick, outpatient procedure
• No incisions or stitches
• Minimal discomfort
• Little to no recovery time
• May reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma eye drops
• Can be repeated if additional treatment is needed
• Proven long-term treatment option for many glaucoma patients

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Who Is a Candidate for SLT?

SLT may be recommended for patients who:

• Have primary open-angle glaucoma
• Have ocular hypertension (high eye pressure)
• Are having difficulty using glaucoma eye drops
• Experience side effects from glaucoma medications
• Want to reduce their dependence on daily medications
• Need additional pressure lowering despite current treatment

Your ophthalmologist will determine whether SLT is appropriate based on your eye pressure, optic nerve health, and overall glaucoma management plan.

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What to Expect During the Procedure

SLT is performed in the office and typically takes only 5 to 10 minutes per eye.

During the procedure:

• Numbing eye drops are placed in the eye.
• A special contact lens is positioned on the eye.
• The laser is applied to the drainage angle.
• Most patients experience little to no discomfort.

You can usually return to your normal daily activities shortly after the procedure.

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After Your SLT Treatment

Vision may be slightly blurry for a few hours after treatment, but this typically resolves quickly. Your eye pressure will be monitored during follow-up visits to ensure the treatment is working effectively.

While many patients experience significant pressure reduction, the full effect of SLT may take several weeks to develop. Some patients may still require glaucoma medications, while others can reduce or eliminate them under their doctor's guidance.

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Why Choose Eye Care & Surgery?

Our experienced glaucoma specialists use the latest diagnostic technology and evidence-based treatments to preserve your vision. We develop personalized glaucoma management plans that may include laser therapy, medications, or surgery based on your individual needs.

Our goal is to help protect your eyesight for years to come through early detection, advanced treatment, and ongoing care.

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Call to Action

Protect Your Vision Before Glaucoma Causes Permanent Damage

If you have glaucoma or elevated eye pressure, Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) may help lower your eye pressure and reduce your reliance on daily eye drops.

Schedule a glaucoma evaluation today to find out if SLT is the right treatment option for you.