Selective laser trabeculoplasty is a glaucoma laser treatment that targets the eye’s natural drainage tissue to lower pressure and protect the optic nerve.
How SLT lowers eye pressure
After numbing drops, a special contact lens is placed on the eye to focus gentle laser pulses onto the trabecular meshwork. This encourages the tissue to clear microscopic blockages so fluid drains more easily.
- Takes only a few minutes per eye in the clinic
- Does not remove tissue so can often be repeated if needed
- Can reduce or sometimes replace the need for pressure lowering drops
- You can go home shortly after the procedure
What to expect after SLT
Vision may be slightly blurred and the eye a little red or achy for a day or two. Pressure is checked at follow up visits to see how well the treatment has worked and whether any drops can be reduced.
- Pain relief and anti inflammatory drops may be prescribed briefly
- Most people resume normal activities the next day
- Ongoing glaucoma monitoring remains essential long term
- Contact the clinic urgently if you notice severe pain or sudden vision loss
