SLT & DSLT Glaucoma Laser Treatment
What Are SLT and DSLT?
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
SLT is a type of laser therapy used to treat open-angle glaucoma. It works by delivering laser pulses to the trabecular meshwork (the eye’s natural drainage system), stimulating a healing response that improves fluid outflow and lowers intraocular pressure (IOP).
The procedure is quick, painless, and performed in-office. SLT is often used as:
- First-line treatment in early-stage glaucoma
- An alternative to or replacement for pressure-lowering eye drops
- A solution for patients with difficulty adhering to drop schedules
- A way to delay or avoid surgery
Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT)
DSLT is the latest evolution of SLT, using advanced optics and robotics to deliver laser energy externally, without the need for a contact lens or direct access to the trabecular meshwork.
It is non-contact, non-invasive, and even faster than SLT, often completed in just a few minutes. At Westlake Eye Specialists, we are proud to offer this leading-edge technology to our patients seeking a drop-free future.
How Do These Laser Treatments Work?
Both SLT and DSLT stimulate a biological response in the drainage system of the eye, encouraging it to clear blockages and improve outflow.
- Laser energy is precisely targeted to pigmented cells
- These cells absorb the energy, triggering a mild inflammatory healing response
- This enhances the eye’s ability to drain fluid naturally
- Intraocular pressure (IOP) decreases over time—usually within days or weeks
The beauty of SLT and DSLT is their selective nature: only targeted cells are affected, leaving surrounding tissue unharmed.
Who Is a Candidate for SLT or DSLT?
You may be a good candidate for laser glaucoma therapy if you:
- Have primary open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension
- Struggle with medication compliance or cost
- Experience side effects from glaucoma eye drops
- Want to reduce or eliminate your dependence on drops
- Need an additional method to control IOP alongside medication
- Have early to moderate glaucoma and are not ready for surgery
Patients in Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels can schedule an evaluation with Dr. Zarmeena Vendal to determine if SLT or DSLT is right for them.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Both SLT and DSLT are outpatient procedures performed right here at Westlake Eye Specialists.
You can return to normal activities the same day in most cases.
For SLT:
- Numbing drops are placed in your eye
- A special lens is used to focus the laser
- You may see flashes of light but no pain
- The procedure takes just 5–10 minutes per eye
- Vision may be blurry for a few hours after
For DSLT:
- No lens is used on your eye
- The system automatically targets the right area externally
- No physical contact with your eye
- Even faster—typically under 5 minutes
- Minimal to no recovery time
Results and Benefits
- Lower IOP without daily drops
- No systemic side effects like oral medications may cause
- Can be repeated if needed after several years
- Ideal for patients with arthritis, tremors, or other issues preventing eye drop use
- DSLT adds even more comfort and speed for modern glaucoma care
Some patients may still require drops afterward, but at a reduced frequency or dosage.
Why Choose Westlake Eye Specialists?
- Led by Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, MD, one of Central Texas’ leading experts in glaucoma
- Harvard-trained glaucoma specialist with extensive laser experience
- Advanced laser technology including SLT and DSLT systems
- Four accessible locations in Austin, Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels
- Personalized treatment plans and follow-up care focused on long-term success
Schedule a Laser Glaucoma Consultation Today
Interested in a drop-free future? Or want to see if you qualify for SLT or DSLT? Let’s talk. Our experienced team is here to answer your questions and help you protect your vision—safely and comfortably.
Call today or book online to meet with Austin glaucoma specialist Dr. Zarmeena Vendal, proudly serving patients in Kyle, Killeen, and New Braunfels.
