What it is
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a minimally invasive laser treatment that lowers eye pressure. Short pulses of low-energy laser light are directed at the trabecular meshwork — the eye's natural drainage tissue — to help fluid (aqueous humour) drain out of the eye more easily.
Who it's for
Suitable people with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension (raised eye pressure without optic nerve damage). SLT may be used as a first treatment or alongside glaucoma eye drops, depending on your condition.
What to expect
SLT is done in the outpatient clinic. The eye is numbed with drops and a special contact lens is placed on it to focus the laser. The treatment takes a few minutes, and you may see flashes of light.
Recovery
Mild blurring, redness or aching for a day is common, and you may use drops for a few days. Your eye pressure is checked at follow-up visits to see how well the treatment has worked. Continue any glaucoma drops unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Frequently asked questions
Will I still need eye drops after SLT?
Some people can reduce or stop their drops, while others still need them. Your doctor will decide based on your eye pressure at follow-up.
Does SLT cure glaucoma?
No. SLT helps control eye pressure, and regular monitoring is still needed. Its effect can lessen over time, and the treatment can sometimes be repeated.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Sweta Patro