SLT

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) in West Georgia

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a highly effective, minimally invasive laser treatment used to lower eye pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. At Georgia Vision Institute, our glaucoma specialists use SLT to improve the eye’s natural fluid drainage, protect the optic nerve, and reduce the risk of progressive vision loss. As a leading provider of glaucoma treatment in West Georgia, we offer SLT as a safe, quick, and proven option for long-term eye pressure control.

What Is Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)?

SLT is an advanced glaucoma laser treatment that targets the part of the eye responsible for draining fluid. Using low-energy laser pulses, the treatment stimulates the body’s natural healing response to improve drainage and lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Because SLT uses selective light energy, it treats only pigmented cells and leaves surrounding tissue unharmed, making it a gentle yet powerful option for many glaucoma patients.

SLT can be used as first-line glaucoma therapy, as an alternative to medicated eye drops, or as an additional treatment when other methods are not controlling eye pressure well enough.

Benefits of SLT for Glaucoma Treatment

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty offers several advantages for patients with open-angle glaucoma:

  • Non-invasive and quick — The procedure takes only a few minutes and requires no incisions.
  • Minimal discomfort — Most patients experience little to no pain during SLT.
  • Long-lasting pressure reduction — SLT can effectively lower intraocular pressure for several years.
  • Drop-reducing alternative — Many patients rely less on daily glaucoma drops after treatment.
  • Repeatable therapy — Unlike some laser procedures, SLT can be safely repeated if needed.

SLT is especially beneficial for patients who struggle with medication side effects, compliance, or the cost of long-term glaucoma eye drops.

Glaucoma Specialist in Georgia<br />

What to Expect During an SLT Procedure

SLT is performed in-office by our experienced glaucoma specialists in Carrollton, Villa Rica, Bremen, and Douglasville. After numbing drops are applied, a special contact lens is used to help guide the laser to the trabecular meshwork. The procedure typically takes 5–10 minutes per eye, and patients may resume normal activities shortly afterward.

Eye pressure is checked following the procedure, and results are often seen over several weeks as the drainage system gradually improves.

Is SLT Right for You

SLT may be recommended if you have:

  • Open-angle glaucoma
  • Ocular hypertension (high eye pressure)
  • Poor response to glaucoma medications
  • Difficulty using or tolerating eye drops

 

Our doctors at Georgia Vision Institute will evaluate your eye pressure, optic nerve health, and previous treatments to determine whether SLT is the best option for your long-term glaucoma management.

Glaucoma Specialist in Georgia

Schedule a Consultation for SLT in West Georgia

If you have been diagnosed with glaucoma or elevated eye pressure, SLT may help protect your vision and reduce your reliance on medications. Schedule an appointment at one of our Georgia Vision Institute locations in Carrollton, Villa Rica, Bremen, or Douglasville to learn more about this effective laser glaucoma treatment.

FAQ: Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)

What is SLT?

SLT is a minimally invasive laser procedure used to lower eye pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

How long does SLT last?

Most patients experience effective eye pressure reduction for 3–5 years, and the procedure can be repeated if needed.

Does SLT replace glaucoma eye drops?

For many patients, SLT reduces or eliminates the need for daily medicated eye drops, depending on disease severity.

Is SLT safe?

Yes. SLT is a well-established glaucoma treatment with minimal discomfort, low complication risk, and no tissue damage.