Relieve excessive eye pressure with minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) at Vantage Eye Consultants. MIGS treats elevated intraocular pressure due to glaucoma, which can lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. Dr. Enoch Nam specializes in MIGS procedures, such as the iStent, to provide safe, quick recovery options for glaucoma patients.
Relieve Intraocular Pressure With Minimal Disruption
Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition that occurs when elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) damages the optic nerve, potentially leading to vision loss and, if untreated, blindness. Known as the “silent thief of sight,” glaucoma often develops gradually without noticeable symptoms until vision loss has already begun. Common symptoms, when they do appear, include eye pain, blurry vision, and seeing halos around lights. Early and effective treatment is essential to manage IOP and protect long-term eye health.
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) is a cutting-edge approach to treating glaucoma by reducing eye pressure with minimal tissue disruption. Unlike traditional glaucoma surgery, MIGS procedures, such as the iStent, ensure quicker recovery and fewer complications. Dr. Nam offers MIGS as a safer, more comfortable surgical option for glaucoma patients.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) Treats:
- Loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Increased intraocular pressure
- Gradual vision loss without early warning signs
How Does the iStent Work?
The iStent is a microscopic device, smaller than a grain of rice, designed to create an additional pathway for fluid to drain from your eye, effectively lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). During the procedure, Dr. Nam carefully inserts the iStent into your eye’s trabecular meshwork, the primary drainage system within the eye. This placement enables fluid to bypass any blockages, allowing it to flow more freely and reducing the pressure that can damage the optic nerve.
The iStent is implanted through a tiny incision, typically during cataract surgery, making the procedure quick and minimally invasive. As one of the smallest medical implants available, the iStent integrates seamlessly within the eye, with little to no impact on vision. By restoring proper fluid flow, the iStent provides long-term control of eye pressure, helping to manage your glaucoma while minimizing your need for daily eye drops.
Advantages of the iStent:
- Effectively reduces intraocular pressure
- Minimally invasive procedure with quick recovery
- Can be performed alongside cataract surgery
- Reduces or eliminates the need for daily glaucoma medications
- Tiny implant with no noticeable impact on vision
- Long-term solution for managing eye pressure
- Lower risk of complications compared to traditional glaucoma surgery
- Preserves eye tissues with minimal disruption
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) FAQs
How is MIGS Different From Traditional Glaucoma Surgery?
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) refers to a group of surgical techniques that lower intraocular pressure (IOP) with minimal disruption to eye tissues. Unlike traditional glaucoma surgery, which often involves more extensive incisions and longer recovery times, MIGS procedures are quick and safe with smaller incisions, less trauma, and a faster recovery.
Who is a Good Candidate for MIGS?
MIGS is typically recommended for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma, particularly those who want to lower their IOP with less invasive options. If you have open-angle glaucoma and your intraocular pressure isn’t well-controlled with medications, MIGS may be a suitable option. Dr. Nam will evaluate your eye health and determine whether MIGS is the right choice based on factors like glaucoma severity, current treatment success, and any previous eye surgeries.
Is MIGS Effective in Reducing Eye Pressure?
Yes, MIGS can be highly effective in lowering eye pressure. By creating a new drainage pathway, procedures like the iStent help to increase fluid outflow and reduce IOP. While MIGS may not achieve as drastic a reduction in IOP as traditional surgeries in some advanced cases, it can be a safe and effective solution for many patients.
Will I Still Need to Use Eye Drops After MIGS?
Some patients find that MIGS allows them to reduce or even eliminate their need for daily glaucoma eye drops, though this depends on individual eye pressure levels and how well the MIGS device controls IOP over time. After your surgery, Dr. Nam will monitor your IOP and determine if any additional medications are necessary to maintain healthy pressure levels.
Restore Clearer Vision With Dr. Nam
At Vantage Eye Consultants, Dr. Enoch Nam provides expert glaucoma and cataract care with a patient-first approach. As a board-certified ophthalmologist known as the “surgeon’s surgeon,” Dr. Nam is trusted for his precise surgical skills, compassionate care, and innovative use of advanced technology like the iStent. With a dedication to outstanding outcomes and patient education, he ensures that each individual feels informed and supported in their journey. Schedule a consultation to explore your options for preserving your sight today.
