ABOUT MIGS
Thanks to the amazing innovations in glaucoma treatment techniques in recent years, millions of people with glaucoma now have a wide variety of options to improve their eye health. The majority of these new techniques fit into the category of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). At The Eye Center of Southern Indiana, we are so happy to offer MIGS treatments and various other new laser procedures for our Bloomington, IN patients. MIGS techniques are done using microscopic surgical incisions and equipment to reduce internal eye pressure, delaying any damage to the optic nerve. Fortunately, MIGS can be effective for people suffering from nearly any stage of glaucoma.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF MIGS?
A personalized MIGS treatment for glaucoma can significantly reduce IOP (intraocular pressure) and help preserve eye health with benefits including:
- Improved patient safety
- Can decrease the need for more invasive procedures
- Can be effective when other treatments have failed
- Reduces risks of double vision
- Lessens risk of infection
- Lowers risk of corneal swelling
- Can achieve a more stable IOP
AM I A CANDIDATE FOR MIGS?
Only an experienced ophthalmologist can determine whether or not a patient is an ideal candidate for MIGS or laser therapy. Glaucoma can range vastly in severity so each patient should receive a personalized treatment plan to manage their symptoms. The most ideal candidates for MIGS:
- Haven't been able to control their internal eye pressure with prescription eye drops
- Don't have a high risk of severe progression
- Are diagnosed with both glaucoma and cataracts
- Are over 18 years of age
- Are experiencing mild to moderate glaucoma
Once we have determined that someone is eligible for MIGS, we will go over each of his or her available options. We specialize in multiple MIGS procedures, and all of them are performed using the most cutting-edge technologies and tools.
HOW DOES MIGS WORK?
At The Eye Center of Southern Indiana, our team of extremely trained ophthalmologists are excited to be able to perform MIGS treatments for our glaucoma patients. As soon as we have determined that a patient is eligible for MIGS, we will examine all of his or her best options. Our team specializes in a range of MIGS procedures, and each one is performed via the most state-of-the-art technology and tools. Generally, MIGS treatments are done in outpatient contexts and are over with very quickly. Many of these procedures in Bloomington, IN only last 15 minutes.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER MIGS?
Due to the fact that MIGS is minimally invasive, downtime is less than traditional glaucoma surgery. Nearly all patients can return to their jobs or their day-to-day routines within 2 – 5 days. After the surgery is over, we will thoroughly go over each patient's post-surgery requirements for how to care for their eyes as they heal. We also require our MIGS patients to schedule a few very important follow-up exams at The Eye Center of Southern Indiana that allow us to thoroughly monitor their intraocular pressure throughout this period.
MIGS FAQS
Is MIGS safe?
Yes, MIGS is considered a safe procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon. The risks associated with MIGS are similar to those associated with traditional glaucoma surgery, but they are generally lower. The Eye Center of Southern Indiana uses top-of-the-line technology to minimize these risks and ensure the safety of our glaucoma patients.
How do I prepare for MIGS?
You will need to have a comprehensive eye exam so we can determine your candidacy for MIGS. Please inform our team in Bloomington, IN if you have chronic dry eye or other conditions that may affect your surgery. We also need to know about any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
What results can I expect from MIGS?
MIGS can effectively reduce intraocular pressure and improve the drainage of fluid from your eye, slowing down the progression of glaucoma. In many cases, MIGS can eliminate the need for glaucoma medications. Our staff will provide a more accurate estimate of what you can expect during a pre-surgical evaluation.
ADVANCED GLAUCOMA MANAGEMENT
As recently as ten years ago, patients suffering from aggressive glaucoma only had one solution for treatment. Thankfully, MIGS and laser surgeries now allow us to perform several types of treatments to help patients manage their glaucoma. Get in touch with our team at The Eye Center of Southern Indiana to arrange a MIGS evaluation, and take control of your eye health.
CALL TODAY FOR HELP
Noticing any signs of a retinal tear or detachment is reason enough to see a trained eye doctor. If you've been experiencing issues, our team will perform a comprehensive eye exam to assess your eye health and figure out how to best manage or reverse your condition. Schedule an eye exam with our team at The Eye Center of Southern Indiana to get the help you need from people who care about your vision as much as your well-being.