The laser iridotomy, also known as peripheral iridotomy, is a minimally invasive laser treatment that creates a small hole in the periphery of the iris. This process improves the flow of aqueous humour between the chambers in the eye and consequently helps lower eye pressure, as well as preventing or treating angle closure glaucoma. Laser iridotomy is a very safe and effective way of protecting your vision through improved fluid drainage in the eye.

Key characteristics of the laser iridotomy include:

• Minimally invasive procedure that does not require any surgical cuts.
• Creating a small hole in the peripheral iris by using special laser technology.
• Improving the flow of aqueous humour in the eye.
• Lowering the intraocular pressure due to blocked or narrowed drainage angles.
• Preventing and managing angle closure glaucoma.
• Very safe and effective outpatient procedure for suitable candidates.

Why is a Peripheral Iridotomy Performed?

Laser iridotomy is performed to improve the drainage of fluid within the eye when narrow or blocked drainage angles increase the risk of a sudden rise in eye pressure. By creating an alternative pathway for fluid flow, the procedure helps prevent vision-threatening complications associated with angle-closure glaucoma and supports long-term eye health. 

Your ophthalmologist may recommend laser iridotomy to:

• To prevent the development of acute angle-closure glaucoma when the drainage angles are narrow
• To relieve pupillary block and enable normal flow of fluid
• To lower intraocular pressure (IOP) resulting from angle closure
• To reduce the chance of future angle-closure episodes
• To protect the optic nerve from damage
• To prevent vision loss before it happens

Symptoms That May Require Laser Iridotomy 

Angle-closure glaucoma may occur abruptly or progressively, and it is important to identify the symptoms as soon as possible to avoid permanent vision loss. Should you experience any of the following signs, your ophthalmologist will suggest a thorough eye evaluation to find out whether you need Laser Iridotomy.

Symptoms include:

• Sudden intense eye pain
• Blurred or reduced vision
• Haloes seen around the lights
• Red eyes
• Headache with eye pain
• Nausea or vomiting due to high eye pressure
• Repeated instances of mild eye pain or blurring of vision, particularly in low light conditions

Laser Iridotomy is a brief and painless outpatient treatment which takes just a few minutes per eye. Before the process, anaesthetic eye drops are used for patient comfort. Laser treatment involves making a very small hole in the peripheral portion of the iris, so that fluid flow becomes normal, and eye pressure becomes low.

The process follows these steps:

• Eye examination and testing of eye pressure before the treatment
• Eye-anaesthetising drops for numbness of the eyes
• Use of special contact lenses placed on your eye for laser focus
• Using precise laser treatment to make a small opening in the periphery of the iris
• Pressure or pinching feeling during the treatment
• Checking the eye pressure after the procedure before discharge
• Most people can be discharged on the same day and prescribed eye drops

Recovery After Laser Iridotomy

The recovery time following a laser iridotomy surgery is relatively short, and most people return to their routine within one day after the surgery. You may experience some eye irritation, blurriness of vision, or sensitivity to bright lights. However, these side effects do not last long and go away in a few hours or several days. The doctor will prescribe eye drops and arrange follow-up visits.

After the surgery, you can anticipate:

• Temporary eye irritation and sensitivity to bright light.
• Possible blurring of vision or headache.
• Eye drops prescribed for preventing swelling and ensuring proper recovery.
• Intraocular pressure measurement and checking the iridotomy area during a follow-up visit.
• Return to routine after 24 hours post-surgery.
• Medical care in case of severe eye pain, vision loss, or redness of the eyes.

Laser Iridotomy Risks and Possible Side Effects

Laser iridotomy is viewed as a fairly safe procedure with few complications; however, there is always a possibility that laser iridotomy could produce some temporary side effects or complications, just as any medical procedure. Your eye specialist will discuss the potential risks with you and determine whether you have any.

Some risks and side effects may be:

• Slight eye irritation following the procedure.
• Blurred vision or temporary sensitivity to light.
• A slight increase in intraocular pressure, controlled by your doctor.
• Slight inflammation in the eye.
• Iris bleeding in small quantities; it goes away on its own.
• Visual disturbances such as glare or seeing a line of light due to the presence of the iridotomy opening.

At Vasan Eye UAE, we provide advanced Laser Iridotomy in Dubai using modern technology and a patient-focused approach. Our experienced ophthalmologists deliver precise treatment, personalised care, and comprehensive follow-up to help protect your long-term vision.

Patients trust us because of:

• Experienced glaucoma specialists
• Advanced laser technology
• Personalised treatment plans
• Safe outpatient procedure
• Comprehensive eye evaluation
• Dedicated follow-up care
• Patient-first approach