Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)

SLT is a proven glaucoma treatment that uses short pulses of low-energy light to treat the trabecular meshwork (the tissue responsible for draining fluid from the eye).

SLT & How It Works

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is a gentle, in-office laser treatment used to help lower eye pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension. Unlike traditional lasers that can cause heat damage, SLT selectively treats pigment cells without injuring surrounding tissue.

During the procedure, your glaucoma surgeon will:

  • Apply numbing drops
  • Use a special lens to focus the laser
  • Deliver precise laser pulses to the trabecular meshwork
  • Check your eye pressure and ensure you’re comfortable
  • Provide detailed aftercare instructions

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Why Our Patients Choose Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)

SLT offers a balance of effectiveness, convenience, and peace of mind, especially for those looking to reduce dependence on long-term eye drops while protecting their vision.

SLT lowers eye pressure, allowing use of eye drops to be less frequent from the daily burden of management.

SLT is performed at our office and only takes a few minutes per eye. It does not require being in a operating room or needing sedation.

Patients return to work and play the same day, with little or zero downtime.

SLT treats cells in the eye’s drainage system without causing thermal damage.

If eye pressure rises again over time, SLT can be repeated as well as combined with other glaucoma treatments.

SLT has a long track record of safely lowering intraocular pressure for many patients with glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Discuss Your Glaucoma Treatment Options

Take the next step toward better vision and fewer daily drops. Talk to your Southwest Eye doctor about Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT).

Protect Your Vision with SLT

Is SLT Right For Me?

Your glaucoma specialist at Southwest Eye Institute will review your eye pressure history, optic nerve health, and treatment goals to determine whether SLT is the right choice for your situation.

You may be a candidate for SLT if you:

  • Have open-angle glaucoma
  • Need additional pressure reduction
  • Want to reduce or eliminate drops
  • Experience irritation or difficulty with medications
  • Prefer a non-invasive treatment option
  • Have a history of pressure fluctuations
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) laser device used for glaucoma treatment in an ophthalmology clinic.

Safety & Results of SLT

SLT is FDA-approved, repeatable, and well-tolerated by most patients. Pressure typically begins to decline within days to weeks, and many patients enjoy sustained improvement for several years.

Possible short-term effects can include mild irritation, light sensitivity, or temporary changes in pressure. Your doctor will monitor your response closely to ensure long-term safety and stability.

For additional medical insight, visit the Glaucoma Research Foundation

Insurance and Financing SLT

The SLT procedure is reimbursed by Medicare and many private insurance plans when it is medically necessary, which helps minimize your out-of-pocket costs. Before scheduling Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT), our team will review your benefits, confirm any prior authorizations, and explain expected copays or coinsurance so there are no surprises.

If you do not have insurance or you are on a high-deductible plan, Southwest Eye Institute offers flexible financing options to help make care more affordable. You can explore our patient financing options on our finance page or talk with our team about a payment plan that fits your budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many patients benefit for several years, though results vary. SLT can be safely repeated as needed.

For some patients, yes. Your response will depend on your pressure goals and how your eye reacts to treatment.

No. Most patients feel only mild pressure during the treatment.

Yes. SLT is low-energy, non-invasive, and considered one of the safest glaucoma treatments available.

Smiling middle-aged Hispanic woman in an embroidered blouse, standing outdoors and representing a satisfied Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) patient at Southwest Eye Institute

Manage Glaucoma with SLT

Experience clearer, more stable pressure control with a gentle laser approach. Schedule an appointment with our glaucoma specialists at Southwest Eye Institute to learn more about Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT.

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