What Is Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery?

Known as a leading cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide, glaucoma often progresses silently until noticeable damage has already occurred. As there is no cure for glaucoma, treatment focuses on slowing or preventing further vision loss—most commonly by lowering intraocular pressure (IOP). While prescription eye drops and laser treatments are generally effective, some patients require surgical intervention to better manage their condition.

In recent years, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) has emerged as an innovative option for select patients, offering pressure reduction with fewer risks and a faster recovery compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries. At Riverside EyeCare Professionals, patients can benefit from advanced glaucoma care tailored to their individual needs, including access to modern surgical techniques when appropriate.

Understanding Glaucoma and Eye Pressure

Glaucoma typically occurs when fluid inside the eye does not drain properly, causing pressure to build up. Over time, this elevated pressure can damage the optic nerve, which is responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain. Left untreated, glaucoma can lead to permanent vision loss.

Treatment usually begins with medications or laser therapy designed to improve fluid drainage or reduce fluid production. When these methods are no longer sufficient, or cause unwanted side effects, surgical solutions may be recommended.

What Is Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery?

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures designed to lower eye pressure using tiny incisions and microscopic devices. MIGS procedures can be less disruptive to the eye’s natural anatomy than traditional glaucoma surgeries, such as trabeculectomy or tube shunt implantation.

The primary goals of MIGS are to:

• Lower intraocular pressure
• Reduce dependence on glaucoma medications
• Minimize surgical risks
• Promote quicker healing and recovery

Since MIGS can be gentler on the eye, it is commonly performed earlier in the course of glaucoma treatment rather than as a last resort.

How MIGS Works

Most MIGS procedures are designed to enhance the eye’s natural drainage system, allowing excess fluid to exit more efficiently. Depending on the specific technique, this may involve:

• Creating a tiny bypass within the eye’s drainage pathway
• Opening blocked drainage channels
• Redirecting fluid to alternative drainage routes

The devices used in MIGS are known to be extremely small, often no larger than the tip of a pen, and are implanted using specialized instruments under high magnification.

Common Types of MIGS Procedures

There are several MIGS options available, and the most appropriate approach generally depends on the type and severity of glaucoma, as well as the patient’s overall eye health. Common MIGS procedures include:

• Trabecular micro-bypass devices, which improve fluid outflow through the eye’s natural drainage system
• Canal-based procedures, which widen or open blocked drainage canals
• Subconjunctival micro-stents, which allow fluid to drain beneath the surface of the eye

Many MIGS procedures are performed at the same time as cataract surgery, making them especially appealing for patients who have both cataracts and mild to moderate glaucoma.

Who Is a Good Candidate for MIGS?

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery is not right for everyone. It is most often recommended for patients who:

• Have mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma
• Are not achieving adequate pressure control with medications alone
• Experience side effects or difficulty using glaucoma eye drops
• Are already planning cataract surgery

Patients with advanced glaucoma or certain secondary forms of this disease may require more traditional surgical options. A comprehensive eye exam and glaucoma evaluation at Riverside EyeCare Professionals can determine whether MIGS is an appropriate choice.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery

MIGS offers several advantages compared to conventional glaucoma surgery, including:

• Lower risk profile: Smaller incisions help reduce the risk of complications
• Faster recovery: Most patients experience minimal downtime
• Medication reduction: Many patients are able to reduce or eliminate some glaucoma drops
• Preservation of eye anatomy: MIGS procedures are designed to be tissue-sparing

While MIGS may not lower eye pressure as dramatically as traditional surgeries, it often provides sufficient pressure control for appropriately selected patients.

What to Expect During and After the Procedure

MIGS is typically performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. The surgery itself usually takes less than 30 minutes, especially when combined with cataract surgery.

After this procedure, patients may experience mild redness, irritation, or blurry vision for a short period. Most people can resume normal daily activities within a few days, though eye drops and follow-up visits are still essential to ensure proper healing and pressure control.

Your eye doctor can provide personalized post-operative instructions and monitor your eye pressure closely in the weeks following surgery.

Is MIGS a Cure for Glaucoma?

It is important to understand that minimally invasive glaucoma surgery does not cure glaucoma. Instead, it helps manage the condition by controlling eye pressure and slowing disease progression. Lifelong monitoring remains essential, even after successful surgery.

Regular eye exams allow your ophthalmologist to detect changes early and adjust treatment as needed to protect your vision.

Advanced Glaucoma Care at Riverside EyeCare Professionals

At Riverside EyeCare Professionals, protecting your vision is always the top priority. By combining advanced diagnostic technology with personalized treatment plans, board-certified ophthalmologists Dr. Michael Sumsion and Dr. Sean Sumsion ensure that each patient receives care tailored to their specific needs. For patients who may benefit from minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, careful evaluation and clear communication help guide informed decisions every step of the way.

If you have glaucoma or are struggling to control eye pressure with medications alone, a consultation can help determine whether MIGS or another treatment option may be right for you. Early intervention and ongoing care remain the keys to preserving vision for years to come. Contact our Redding practice today to learn more or to schedule a consultation!