Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery) offers advanced techniques to lower eye pressure in patients with glaucoma.
It involves a group of procedures that use small incisions to improve the eye’s natural drainage system. As a result, it helps lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients, making it a safe and minimally invasive solution.
What You Need to Know
Dr. Carlos Montoya MD and the team at St. Lucia Eye Center specialize in personalized glaucoma care, offering the latest procedures to help patients maintain healthy vision.
St. Lucia Eye Center is Known for its Expertise in Glaucoma Care. Dr. Montoya Offers Personalized MIGS Procedures to Manage Glaucoma
Benefits
- Minimally invasive approach
- Reduced recovery time
- Safer than traditional glaucoma surgery
- Can be performed alongside cataract surgery
- Effective for mild to moderate glaucoma
What is MIGS?
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) involves a range of procedures that create small incisions to improve the eye’s natural drainage system. By doing so, it lowers intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients, offering a safe and minimally invasive solution.
Symptoms
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Tunnel vision
- Severe eye pain in acute glaucoma
- Blurred or cloudy vision
Glaucoma often remains symptom-free in its early stages, so regular eye exams are essential for early detection and preventing further damage.
Symptoms
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Tunnel vision
- Severe eye pain in acute glaucoma
- Blurred or cloudy vision
Glaucoma often remains symptom-free in its early stages, so regular eye exams are essential for early detection and preventing further damage.
Causes of Glaucoma
Elevated Intraocular Pressure
A buildup of fluid in the eye raises pressure, which can ultimately damage the optic nerve.
Poor Drainage of Eye Fluid
Issues with the eye's drainage system can lead to fluid buildup, resulting in increased pressure.
Age
The risk of developing glaucoma increases with age, particularly after 60.
Family History
Having a family member with glaucoma increases the risk of developing the condition.
High Blood Pressure
Chronic hypertension can contribute to glaucoma due to reduced blood flow to the optic nerve.
Eye Injury
Previous eye trauma can increase the risk of developing glaucoma.
We Believe That Everyone Deserves to Enjoy Life With Clear Vision
We offer MIGS as a safer, lower-risk alternative to traditional glaucoma surgeries. Dr. Montoya and his team will assess your condition and recommend the most effective treatment to preserve your vision. Schedule a consultation today!
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose glaucoma through eye exams, including measuring eye pressure, conducting visual field tests, and imaging the optic nerve. Afterwards, MIGS procedures like iSTENT or OMNI are used to lower eye pressure by improving fluid drainage in the eye.
Tonometry (Eye Pressure Test)
It measures the pressure inside the eye, which helps in detecting glaucoma.
Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
A non-invasive imaging technique that delivers detailed images of the retina and optic nerve.
Visual Field Test
The visual field test helps measure peripheral vision, particularly in advanced states of glaucoma.
Early detection is crucial for effective management. As a result, MIGS is an excellent treatment option for those with mild to moderate glaucoma, offering safer, faster recovery with lower complication risks. The procedures are often performed in combination with cataract surgery.
When Do You Need MIGS?
MIGS is ideal for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma. If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma and need a lower-risk option for reducing intraocular pressure, it can be a good choice to protect your vision.
Are you a Candidate?
- Patients with mild to moderate glaucoma
- People seeking a less invasive treatment option
- Those who need glaucoma surgery and cataract surgery
Timing
Early glaucoma detection improves the effectiveness of MIGS in preventing further vision loss.
Driving Requirements
Glaucoma can impact peripheral vision, eventually making it unsafe to drive in its advanced stages.
Scheduling
Regular monitoring and follow-up are important for managing glaucoma, even so after MIGS.
Why choose MIGS for glaucoma treatment?
MIGS Advantages
This procedure offers several benefits, including reduced recovery time, lower complication rates, and the ability to treat both glaucoma and cataracts simultaneously. As a result, it serves as an excellent option for many glaucoma patients.
Shorter Recovery Time
The procedures involve small incisions, leading to a quicker recovery compared to traditional glaucoma surgery.
Less Invasive
MIGS utilizes microscopic instruments and small incisions, which reduces the need for larger, more invasive surgeries.
Safer for Mild to Moderate Glaucoma
Particularly beneficial for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma, offering a lower-risk option than traditional surgery.