Royal Eye Infirmary Laser Treatment
What is a Laser?
A laser is a high-intensity beam of light energy that can be focused and controlled very accurately.
There are many different kinds of laser. They vary in colour (some are invisible), strength and effect. They are used for different purposes.
Laser and Eye Treatment
Laser light can be shone through the front of the eye to treat the inside. Three main types of laser treatment are in use at the Royal Eye Infirmary.
One Pascal laser uses laser light to create a microscopic spot to destroy lesions or weld tissues together inside the eye where they are needed. This type of laser is used to treat diabetic eye problems, certain retinal degeneration, tears in the retina and some forms of glaucoma.
The YAG laser is used as precision cutting tool to cut inside the eye. This is used after cataract operations if there is thickening of the lens bag (capsule) to restore clear vision. It may also be used in people likely to develop “acute” (sudden) glaucoma to make an opening in the coloured part of the eye (iris).
The SLT laser is used to treat open angle Glaucoma and can reduce the pressure in the eye by up to 30%
What does laser treatment feel like?
Your surgeon will apply some anaesthetic drops to the eye before treatment. These drops may sting a little. The surgeon will then place a contact lens upon your eye. This will feel strange but will not hurt. It is important that you keep still during laser treatment to help your surgeon treat the correct area. If you experience too much discomfort, an injection of local anaesthetic may be needed to numb the whole eye. The contact lens will be removed at the end of the treatment.
After effects of laser treatment
Vision is likely to be blurred for a few hours after laser treatment. This is due to the pupil enlarging (dilating) drops that are often used. It is also due to the contact lens that was placed on the eye with thick drops during treatment. Some mild discomfort or irritation may be present for the same reasons. You will be dazzled for several minutes after the treatment by the bright microscope light. You will be warned if longer lasting symptoms are anticipated.
The eye pressure can rise after laser treatment for a day or two. If this is likely you may be given tablets and / or drops to prevent this from happening.
Some inflammation (redness) may also occur and this is sometimes treated with drops.
You should not experience severe pain following laser treatment. If you do, you must report back immediately to your consultant’s secretary. Out of hours please attend Emergency Department Level 6 Derriford hospital.
