Trust in Pittsburgh’s Best Glaucoma Specialist
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a condition commonly associated with diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of the disease. It is a chronic condition that damages the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. When left untreated, glaucoma symptoms can lead to vision loss and even blindness. Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
At Medical & Surgical Eye Associates, our board-certified ophthalmologists are experts in detecting early signs of glaucoma and treating the problem quickly. We offer the latest in medical and surgical treatments, and we're committed to working with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Your vision is precious, and we're here to help you protect it.
If you think you may have glaucoma, or if you have been diagnosed with the condition, we can help. Don't wait to receive the care you need from the best glaucoma specialist Pittsburgh, PA has to offer. Schedule an appointment with Medical & Surgical Eye Associates in Forest Hills today.
Glaucoma Treatment from Your Pittsburgh Eye Surgeons
Glaucoma Symptoms and Treatment Options
Catching glaucoma early is the key to preserving your vision. That's why it's important to know the symptoms and to see your eye doctor regularly for comprehensive eye exams.
Signs of glaucoma may include:
- Gradual, painless loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Halos around lights
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain or redness
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see your eye doctor right away. Early detection is vital to preventing vision loss from glaucoma.
Once glaucoma is diagnosed, our team will work with you to develop a treatment plan. Our team utilizes Microinvasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) techniques, which are minimally invasive and have a quick recovery time.
We perform three types of MIGS procedures:
- iStent: The iStent is a tiny implant that is placed in the eye to improve drainage and reduce pressure. It is the smallest medical device ever approved by the FDA, and it is the only MIGS procedure that is covered by Medicare.
- Trabectome: The Trabectome is a minimally invasive surgery that uses a small device to remove part of the eye's trabecular meshwork (the tissue that drains fluid from the eye). This procedure improves drainage and reduces pressure.
- XEN Gel Stent: The XEN Gel Stent is a biodegradable, collagen-based implant that is placed in the eye to improve drainage and reduce pressure. It dissolves over time, so there is no need for removal.
These procedures can be done in our office, and they're often covered by insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will every case of glaucoma require surgery?
Not necessarily. In many cases, the condition can be managed with glaucoma medications in the form of eye drops. If eye drops are not effective, or if you cannot tolerate them, surgery may be recommended. Your Medical & Surgical Eye ophthalmologist will work with you to develop the best treatment plan for your individual needs.
Will my vision be restored after glaucoma surgery?
Glaucoma surgery can help to improve drainage and reduce pressure in the eye. In some cases, it can even help to restore vision that has been lost due to glaucoma. However, it is important to remember that vision loss from glaucoma is irreversible. Surgery can only stop further progression of the disease.
Do your glaucoma doctors near me accept insurance?
Yes! Medical & Surgical Eye Associates is proud to accept insurance from providers across the Western Pennsylvania region in order to keep our care as accessible as possible. Visit our Insurance page to view our list of providers, and reach out to us with any questions you have about your coverage.
How can I get started with the top glaucoma doctors near me?
At Medical & Surgical Eye Associates, we’ve made our appointment scheduling process as simple and user-friendly as possible. Just use our online scheduling tool to request an appointment at a time that works for you.