🠕
Pushpanjali Eye Care Hospital, Golpark, Kolkata-700029
Pushpanjali Eye Care Hospital, Golpark, Kolkata-700029
By Pushpanjali
10.02.2025
Wondering if Laser Iridotomy Surgery is painful? Learn what to expect, possible discomfort, and recovery tips from a reputed eye hospital.
Eye health is essential, and when conditions like narrow-angle glaucoma arise, medical intervention becomes necessary. Laser Iridotomy Surgery is a common procedure used to prevent vision loss caused by increased intraocular pressure. However, many patients worry about whether the surgery is painful or uncomfortable.
Understanding what to expect during and after the procedure can ease concerns and help patients prepare for the experience with confidence. This guide provides insights into Laser Iridotomy Surgery, explaining the level of discomfort involved, the steps of the procedure, and tips for a smooth recovery.
Laser Iridotomy Surgery is a minimally invasive laser treatment designed to treat or prevent narrow-angle glaucoma. The procedure involves using a laser to create a small hole in the iris, allowing better fluid drainage and reducing eye pressure.
This surgery is recommended for individuals at risk of acute angle-closure glaucoma, a condition where the eye’s drainage system becomes blocked, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. If it has been untreated, it can cause permanent vision loss.
✅ Prevents Glaucoma Progression: Reduces the risk of optic nerve damage.
✅ Minimally Invasive: No surgical incisions are required.
✅ Quick Procedure: Typically completed within 10-15 minutes.
✅ Fast Recovery: Patients can resume normal activities within a day or two.
One of the most common concerns among patients is whether Laser Iridotomy Surgery is painful. The good news is that while mild discomfort may be felt, the procedure itself is not considered painful due to the use of numbing eye drops.
Patients who have undergone Laser Iridotomy Surgery describe the sensation as:
🔹 A momentary sting or mild irritation, similar to an eye exam light flash.
🔹 A quick pinching feeling, which disappears in seconds.
🔹 Mild discomfort afterward, but manageable with eye drops.
Most patients report that the fear of pain before the procedure was worse than the actual experience. The procedure is over before you realize it!
While the surgery is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience temporary side effects.
🔹 Mild Eye Redness – This occurs due to laser exposure but resolves quickly.
🔹 Slight Blurry Vision – Some patients experience blurriness immediately after the procedure, which clears within a few hours.
🔹 Light Sensitivity – Temporary, lasting only for a short period.
🔹 Mild Headache – Caused by slight changes in eye pressure but can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
🔹 Halos or Glare – Some patients see rings around lights, but this effect fades over time.
✔️ Use Prescribed Eye Drops – These help in healing and reducing inflammation.
✔️ Rest Your Eyes – Avoid screens and bright lights for the first few hours.
✔️ Wear Sunglasses – Helps with light sensitivity.
✔️ Follow Up with Your Doctor – Attend check-ups to ensure proper healing.
The recovery process is relatively quick and smooth for most patients.
🔹 First Few Hours: Vision may be slightly blurry. Avoid driving immediately after the procedure.
🔹 Within 24 Hours: Most patients can resume normal activities.
🔹 First Few Days: Any mild discomfort or light sensitivity should subside.
🔹 First Week: A follow-up appointment is usually scheduled to ensure the eye pressure is stable.
✔️ Avoid Strenuous Activities – No heavy lifting or intense exercise for the first 24-48 hours.
✔️ Follow Medication Instructions – Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
✔️ Limit Screen Time – Reduce strain on your eyes by avoiding prolonged use of screens.
✔️ Stay Hydrated & Eat Well – A balanced diet helps with healing.
While complications are rare, contact your doctor if you experience:
🚨 Severe or worsening eye pain
🚨 Sudden loss of vision
🚨 Persistent redness or swelling
🚨 Increased light sensitivity that does not improve
At the Best Eye Hospital, experienced specialists ensure safe and effective Laser Iridotomy Surgery, offering expert post-operative care to help patients recover smoothly.
The procedure typically takes 10-15 minutes per eye.
No, it is recommended to arrange for someone to drive you home as your vision may be blurry for a few hours.
In most cases, the procedure is a long-term solution, but some patients may require additional treatments if the drainage hole becomes blocked.
Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops for a few days, but the need for long-term medication depends on your specific condition.
No, the surgery helps prevent further damage but does not cure glaucoma. Regular eye check-ups are essential.
Laser Iridotomy Surgery is a quick, effective, and mostly painless procedure designed to prevent serious glaucoma complications. While mild discomfort is possible, the benefits far outweigh the risks, and proper post-care ensures a smooth recovery.
If you are experiencing symptoms of narrow-angle glaucoma, consulting a specialist at the Best Eye Hospital in Kolkata, can help you determine whether Laser Iridotomy Surgery is the right solution for you.
By staying informed and following your doctor’s advice, you can take proactive steps to protect your vision and maintain lifelong eye health.
