Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) in Chesterfield, MO

At West County Ophthalmology, we offer our patients who have glaucoma many options for glaucoma surgery, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Glaucoma is a vision-threatening condition wherein rising intraocular pressure causes damage to the optic nerve. When left untreated, glaucoma can progress to irreversible vision loss. The key to managing glaucoma effectively is early detection and consistent treatment by a professional ophthalmologist. Glaucoma surgery typically aims to slow the progression of the illness by creating channels for fluid to drain more seamlessly from the eye, which, in turn, can lower the rising intraocular pressure which would otherwise damage the optic nerve. If you have glaucoma, then contact one of our facilities to learn about your glaucoma surgery options, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery in Chesterfield or O'Fallon, MO.

At West County Ophthalmology, we know a glaucoma diagnosis can be scary. However, with minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, we are proud to offer our patients a noninvasive way to treat this condition. Many of our patients who have received this surgery enjoyed benefits such as:

• Quick, in-office procedure
• Lowers the amount of pressure placed on the eyes
• Preserves vision by preventing or slowing further vision loss
• Protects further damage from occurring to the optic nerve

Only a skilled ophthalmologist can identify if an individual is eligible for MIGS or laser therapy. Each type of glaucoma can present various degrees of severity; therefore, each patient requires a specialized procedure plan to control their symptoms. The most suitable candidates for MIGS:

• Are over the age of 18
• Are living with mild to moderate glaucoma
• Haven't been able to manage their symptoms with eye drops
• Have both glaucoma and cataracts
• Are not at an elevated risk for severe progression

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery can be done at the time of cataract surgery and, like most other glaucoma surgeries, can be performed as an outpatient procedure under a local anesthetic. MIGS will often be suggested if medications or daily eye drops have not proven effective or have caused undesirable side effects. To perform this procedure, your ophthalmologist will create an incision in, or implant a small device into, your eye to help create new channels by which fluid can drain.

Recovery time can vary from patient to patient depending on the type of glaucoma surgery they receive. All patients will need to follow up with their physician to ensure that their surgery was successful and that intraocular pressure is decreasing.

Is minimally invasive glaucoma surgery safe?
MIGS is considered a safe procedure when it is performed by an experienced surgeon, like the ones at West County Ophthalmology. While there are risks (as with every procedure), they are fewer than traditional glaucoma procedures. We also utilize state-of-the-art technology and techniques to minimize risk.

How can I prepare for MIGS?
Prior to your MIGS surgery at our O'Fallon or Chesterfield, MO office, you should let our team know if you have chronic dry eye, as this could affect your surgery. You should also bring a list of any medications you take, their dosage, and the reason for taking them.

What can I expect after MIGS?
This glaucoma treatment will reduce intraocular pressure and improve how fluid drains from your eye, both of which will slow down the progression of your glaucoma. For many, this procedure allows them to quit their glaucoma prescription medications.

A glaucoma diagnosis may cause some fear that you will lose your vision and be unable to do many of the things that you now love. However, glaucoma patients who maintain regular appointments with their ophthalmologist and follow their treatment plan can effectively slow the progression of the disease and significantly decrease their odds of total vision loss. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma, then contact one of our West County Ophthalmology centers to learn more about glaucoma treatment options, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery.