iStent® in Birmingham, AL

The iStent is a microscopic metal device, and it is presently the tiniest medical implant that boasts an FDA approval. This implant is carefully distributed into the eye to produce a new tunnel within the trabecular meshwork so fluid can easily drain out of the eye, allowing us to effectively reduce a person's internal eye pressure. For countless individuals, this technique has minimized or eliminated their dependence on glaucoma medications. inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham is pleased to perform this contemporary technique as a reliable option to create the most dramatic results. Contact our team in Birmingham, AL to set up an eye exam or to discover more about this MIGS (minimally invasive glaucoma surgery) treatment.

The iStent offers a number of great benefits to help you treat your glaucoma, including:

• Lowering intraocular pressure
• Reducing dependence on medication
• An easy outpatient procedure
• FDA approved
• Safe and effective

The best candidates for the iStent include men and women over the age of 18 with mild to moderate glaucoma. Most patients want to lower their IOP (intraocular pressure) but also want to reduce their reliance on medications. That makes the iStent the perfect nonsurgical option to lower IOP, improve overall eye health, and preserve vision.

Implanting the iStent is typically performed as an outpatient procedure by our skilled team. This treatment is usually performed at the same time as cataract surgery. Before beginning your surgery, we will completely numb your eye and administer mild sedation to keep you comfortable throughout. Using a fine, specialized tool, we will inject the iStent into the trabecular meshwork of your eye to encourage the drainage of excess aqueous fluid, reducing your eye pressure in the process. This MIGS technique has provided glaucoma relief for a number of our patients, even to the point of eliminating the need for prescription glaucoma medications and eye drops.

Is the iStent safe?

Yes, it is. iStent was approved by the FDA in 2012 as safe and effective for relieving intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients.

Does getting an iStent hurt?

No, having an iStent placed isn't painful. Placing an iStent is done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home after you're done. To keep you comfortable, your doctor will numb your eye(s) with anesthetic drops and give you a mild sedative.

Is iStent surgery usually successful?

iStents have been shown to be very successful. According to clinical studies, almost 70% of glaucoma patients treated with an iStent didn't need glaucoma medication after one year.

Even if you're diagnosed with glaucoma, there is still hope. With innovations being made in medical technology every day, our skilled eye doctors at inVision Ophthalmology Birmingham are able to offer more solutions for patients with unique needs. The iStent treatment is especially effective for many who suffer from glaucoma. Reach out to our team in Birmingham, AL to restore your eye health today.