MIGS or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery uses tiny incisions and/or microscopic equipment to reduce pressure in the eye (IOP).
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) is a group of advanced procedures that reduce intraocular pressure (IOP) by improving the eye’s natural fluid drainage or reducing fluid production.
Unlike traditional glaucoma surgery, MIGS uses microscopic instruments and tiny incisions to treat the eye internally. This approach helps:
Compared to traditional glaucoma surgery, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) offers several important advantages:
Because these procedures are gentler on the eye, they are often recommended for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma and, in some cases, for more advanced disease.
If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma or are concerned about your eye pressure, early treatment is critical. Schedule an eye exam today and take the next step toward protecting your vision.
Many MIGS procedures can be performed simultaneously with cataract surgery, allowing patients to address both conditions in a single procedure.
This combined approach can:
Some MIGS options are also available as standalone procedures if cataract surgery is not needed.
At Southwestern Eye Center, we offer a full spectrum of minimally invasive glaucoma procedures designed to lower eye pressure, reduce reliance on medications, and protect your long-term vision. Every treatment plan is personalized based on the type and severity of your glaucoma, your eye anatomy, and how well your current treatments are working.
For many patients, we begin with less invasive options and progress only if needed, helping you avoid more complex surgery whenever possible.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) is often one of the first procedural steps in glaucoma care. It uses gentle laser energy to improve the eye’s natural drainage system and lower pressure without incisions. SLT Iridotomy or Iridectomy is used for narrow-angle glaucoma, creating a small opening in the iris to improve fluid flow and prevent dangerous pressure spikes.
Devices like the Hydrus® Microstent and iStent® are placed inside the eye to improve fluid outflow through the eye’s natural drainage channels. These are commonly performed during cataract surgery and can significantly reduce the need for daily eye drops. For more advanced cases, iStent Infinite® provides additional support by placing multiple stents to improve drainage.
We also offer sustained drug-delivery options like Durysta® and iDose®, which release medication over time directly into the eye, helping reduce or eliminate the need for daily drops.
Procedures such as the OMNI® System, iTrack®, and VIA360™ focus on restoring the eye’s natural drainage pathways. These techniques work by opening, flushing, or dilating the eye’s internal drainage canal to improve fluid flow. The Kahook Dual Blade® is another option that removes diseased tissue in the drainage system to enhance outflow.
For patients who need greater pressure reduction, procedures such as the Ahmed® glaucoma valve or the P-50 Express shunt may be recommended. These create new pathways for fluid to leave the eye and are typically used when other treatments have not provided enough control.
The benefit of offering all of these options in one place is simple: you’re not forced into a one-size-fits-all treatment. Our doctors can choose the right procedure or a combination of treatments to best protect your vision now and in the future. If you’ve been told your glaucoma is progressing or your current treatment isn’t working as well as it should, it may be time to explore these advanced options. Get started with a comprehensive eye exam.
MIGS is a group of advanced procedures that lower intraocular pressure (IOP) using tiny incisions and microscopic instruments. These techniques either improve the eye’s natural drainage or reduce fluid production to help protect your vision.
MIGS is designed to be safer and less invasive than traditional glaucoma surgery. It typically involves smaller incisions, less disruption to the eye, and a faster recovery. While traditional surgery may lower pressure more aggressively, MIGS offers a strong balance of effectiveness and safety, especially in earlier stages of glaucoma.
MIGS offers several key advantages, including:
These benefits make it an appealing option for many patients.
MIGS is often recommended for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma, especially if eye drops are not effectively controlling pressure or are causing side effects. Some patients with more advanced glaucoma may also benefit, depending on their condition and treatment goals.
Yes. Many MIGS procedures can be done at the same time as cataract surgery. This allows patients to improve their vision while also lowering eye pressure, often reducing the need for additional procedures later.
At Southwestern Eye Center, we offer a wide range of options, including:
Your doctor will recommend the best option based on your specific needs.
In many cases, MIGS can reduce the number of medications you need. Some patients may be able to stop drops altogether, while others may still need them but at a lower frequency. Results vary depending on the procedure and severity of glaucoma.
Recovery is typically faster and more comfortable than with traditional glaucoma surgery. Most patients experience mild irritation and can return to normal activities relatively quickly, though your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your procedure.
MIGS procedures are considered very safe and are designed specifically to reduce the risks associated with traditional glaucoma surgery. While all procedures carry some risk, MIGS has a strong safety profile when performed by experienced surgeons.
You may want to consider MIGS if:
A comprehensive eye exam is the best way to determine if MIGS is right for you.
The first step is scheduling a glaucoma evaluation. Your doctor will assess your eye pressure, overall eye health, and treatment history to recommend the most effective approach for preserving your vision.
