- Medically Reviewed by Mr Mfazo Hove Consultant Ophthalmologist
- Author: Chris Dunnington
- Published: November 14, 2025
- Last Updated: November 17, 2025
Understanding the comfort level and safety of any medical procedure is naturally a priority when considering your eye health. At Blue Fin Vision® Eye Clinic, we are committed to providing reassuring and expert care, particularly regarding Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT).
This cutting-edge treatment for glaucoma management is renowned for its effectiveness, but many patients wonder: Is selective laser trabeculoplasty painful? Here’s a detailed exploration of what you can expect regarding pain, safety, side effects, and complications from top-rated specialists across London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield.
Does Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty Hurt?
The short answer is no – SLT is not painful. During the procedure, a topical anaesthetic is applied to numb your eye completely. This ensures that you won’t feel any discomfort during the laser treatment itself. Most patients report only a mild sensation of pressure or brief flashes of light as the laser pulses target the trabecular meshwork in the eye’s drainage system.
After the treatment, it is normal to experience some mild irritation, such as redness, slight soreness, or watery eyes. This is usually temporary and resolves within a few hours to a couple of days. Our top doctors at Blue Fin Vision® ensure you have all the necessary eye drops and detailed aftercare guidance to minimise any discomfort after your procedure.
How Safe is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty?
SLT is widely respected as one of the safest glaucoma treatments available. It is a non-invasive laser procedure that selectively targets pigment cells without damaging surrounding tissue, which dramatically lowers the risk of complications compared to conventional surgery.
At our private eye clinics, the procedure is performed by experienced top specialists who use the latest advanced laser technology, ensuring precision and safety. The minimal risks involved are thoroughly explained during your personalised consultation, with ongoing support provided throughout your treatment journey.
What Are the Side Effects of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty?
While SLT is safe, it can cause some mild side effects, mostly temporary and manageable:
- Redness or mild eye irritation, typically clearing up in a day or two
- Brief blurry vision or light sensitivity
- Rare mild inflammation, controlled with prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops
- Temporary, slight increase in eye pressure in the first 24 hours after treatment in some patients – monitored closely by your specialist
At Blue Fin Vision®, these common side effects are carefully managed with comprehensive aftercare, ensuring your comfort and safety.
What is the Most Common Complication of SLT?
The most common complication is a transient increase in intraocular pressure immediately following the treatment. This pressure spike usually resolves on its own or with short-term medication within 24 hours and is the reason for careful monitoring post-procedure by our leading surgeons.
Other serious complications are exceptionally rare due to the selective and non-destructive nature of the laser. Our experienced clinicians’ skill and use of premium technology minimise any risks further.
Why Choose Blue Fin Vision® for Your SLT Treatment?
Choosing the right clinic for your selective laser trabeculoplasty is fundamental to ensuring the best outcomes and a comfortable experience. Blue Fin Vision® stands out through a combination of clinical expertise, advanced technology, and prestigious industry recognitions that affirm our commitment to excellence. When you trust your eyes with us, you’re placing your vision in truly distinguished hands.
Our achievements include:
- Tatler Address Book 2026 – Featuring our Harley Street clinic, this accolade celebrates practices that blend precision with bespoke, discreet patient care, affirming our status as one of London’s finest eye clinics.
- Spear’s 500 Health & Wellness Index 2025 – Our founder and consultant ophthalmic surgeon, Mr Mfazo Hove, is recognised as a Top Recommended Adviser, a peer-validated honour reserved for the UK’s leading ophthalmologists.
- Doctify Outstanding Patient Care Awards 2024 & 2025 – With over 530 verified five-star patient reviews and zero negative feedback, Blue Fin Vision® exemplifies transparency, trust, and exceptional patient satisfaction across all locations.
- Top Doctors UK – Mr Hove’s profile confirms objective clinical excellence, experience, and transparent complication data, reinforcing our authority among patients and referring clinicians alike.
- ZEISS Key Opinion Leader – Partnering with this world-class ophthalmic technology company, Blue Fin Vision® plays an active role in refining premium lens and biometry systems, demonstrating leadership in clinical innovation.
With multiple locations in London, Chelmsford, and Hatfield, Blue Fin Vision® offers accessible world-class eye care with consistent standards, so you can select the clinic most convenient for you without compromise on quality.
Entrust your vision to Blue Fin Vision® – where excellence is a collective achievement, and your eye health is our highest priority. Book your consultation today and experience why so many patients choose us for their glaucoma management and vision correction treatments.
