As people age, the risk of developing eye conditions like glaucoma increases. Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damages the optic nerve and can cause vision loss and blindness if left untreated. Traditionally, glaucoma has been treated with medications or surgery, but more and more people are turning to a newer approach: minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Here are the top reasons why Rapid City minimally invasive glaucoma surgery is becoming a popular treatment option for glaucoma.
Minimal side effects
One of the main reasons why people are turning to MIGS is that it has fewer side effects than traditional glaucoma surgery. Because MIGS procedures use smaller incisions and less invasive techniques, they typically cause less trauma to the eye. Patients are less likely to experience complications like infection or bleeding. Additionally, because MIGS procedures don’t require as much tissue to be removed, patients are less likely to experience post-operative pain or discomfort.
Faster recovery time
Another advantage of MIGS is that it typically has a shorter recovery time than traditional glaucoma surgery. Because MIGS procedures are less invasive, patients can usually resume normal activities within a few days of the procedure. It contrasts traditional glaucoma surgery, requiring weeks or even months of recovery. For people who want to minimize the impact of their glaucoma treatment on their daily life, MIGS is an attractive option.
Long-term efficacy
While MIGS is a relatively new approach to glaucoma treatment, studies have shown that it can be as effective as traditional surgery in reducing IOP. Some MIGS procedures have been shown to have better long-term efficacy than medications alone. Patients who undergo MIGS may be able to reduce or even eliminate their reliance on glaucoma medications, which can have side effects and be expensive over time.
Versatility
MIGS procedures are not one-size-fits-all. Instead, various MIGS procedures can be tailored to the specific needs of individual patients. Some MIGS procedures are designed to be used in conjunction with cataract surgery, while others can be used as standalone treatments for glaucoma. Some MIGS procedures can be used in patients with mild to moderate glaucoma, while others are better suited for patients with more advanced diseases. This versatility means that MIGS can be an option for a wide range of patients with different types and stages of glaucoma.
Minimal disruption to the eye
Because MIGS procedures are less invasive, they typically cause less disruption to the eye than traditional glaucoma surgery. It can be particularly important for patients with other eye conditions, like age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy, who may be at higher risk for complications from surgery. Also, because MIGS procedures don’t require as much tissue to be removed, they can be a good option for patients with thin or fragile corneas.
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery offers patients a safe, effective, fast way to reduce their intraocular pressure and restore their vision. It is no wonder why more and more people are turning to this type of surgery as a viable option to treat glaucoma. With so many advantages, it is evident that minimally invasive glaucoma surgery is a great choice for those suffering from the condition and looking for an efficient and lasting solution.
