The SLT procedure is performed to improve the outflow of fluid through the drain of the eye, therefore lowering the eye pressure. It is not painful, is done right in the office, and takes just a few minutes. Approximately 30 to 60 minutes prior to the laser, an eye drop is put into the eye to decrease the risk of a pressure rise within the first hour of the procedure. A lens is placed onto the eye and the laser is aimed at the drainage system (trabecular meshwork) of the eye. Your activities are not limited afterwards, as they would be after incisional surgery.

The laser can be used alone to treat glaucoma or it can act in addition to your eye drops. It can work to lower your pressure as well as an eye drop, and it may be repeatable though its effects may diminish over time (several years). One eye is done at a time though both eyes may require the laser treatment. You will be on a short course of anti-inflammatory eye drops following the laser.