Glaucoma refers to a set of eye diseases that gradually damage the optic nerve and can narrow side vision, sometimes without any early warning signs. Since the risk rises with age and changes can be easy to miss, regular screening is an important part of protecting long-term vision.
At the Eye Institute of Austin, glaucoma care focuses on early detection, accurate diagnosis, and long-term monitoring to help protect vision. For patients considering glaucoma treatment in Austin, the clinic offers medical therapy, in-office laser therapy, and surgical solutions when indicated.
Concerned about glaucoma or changes in eye pressure? Call 512-454-8744 or schedule an appointment online.
Glaucoma Specialist Care in Austin
All of the clinic’s ophthalmologists can screen for, diagnose, and treat glaucoma. For more complex cases, Dr. Steven H. McKinley is a fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist in Austin whom patients can consult, including those that may require surgical intervention. Treatment is tailored based on glaucoma type, severity, pressure goals, and overall eye health.
Glaucoma Treatment Options
Glaucoma damage is permanent, but it is often controllable or preventable with appropriate treatment. Current treatments aim to lower intraocular pressure to halt or limit further optic nerve damage.
Options may include:
- Prescription eye drops to reduce eye pressure
- In-office laser procedures, including laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) to improve drainage
- Peripheral iridotomy (LPI) for narrow-angle or angle-closure risk
- Surgical procedures such as trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implant (“tube shunt”) surgery for advanced or uncontrolled glaucoma
- MIGS options, including iStent® insertion during cataract surgery, for appropriate candidates
- Ongoing monitoring with pressure checks, visual field testing, and optic nerve imaging
Glaucoma care usually involves more frequent follow-up visits than a standard eye exam, so the doctor can confirm that eye pressure and optic nerve findings remain stable.
Testing and Procedures Available for Glaucoma Care
- Visual Field Test: Automated testing that measures the area visible to each eye to assess damage and track stability.
- Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): A non-invasive scan that measures retinal nerve fiber loss and supports progression monitoring alongside visual field testing.
- Laser and Surgical Procedures: Options may be recommended based on anatomy, disease severity, and response to medication.
Glaucoma Surgery in Austin
When eye drops or in-office laser care are no longer keeping pressure within the target range, the physicians may recommend glaucoma surgery for Austin patients. This will help lower intraocular pressure and reduce further optic nerve damage.
Patients are guided through the recommended approach, what to expect during recovery, and the follow-up schedule needed to monitor pressure and vision.
For families seeking a long-term specialist in Austin, the clinic focuses on continuity of care and direct, easy-to-understand communication.
When to See a Glaucoma Specialist
Patients should schedule an evaluation if they notice:
- Blurred or fluctuating vision
- Halos around lights, especially at night
- Eye pain, pressure, or severe headache (particularly with nausea)
- Sudden vision changes or loss of side (peripheral) vision
- A noticeably red eye that does not improve
Schedule Your Glaucoma Evaluation Today
Early detection and treatment are critical for protecting vision and limiting optic nerve damage. The Eye Institute of Austin serves patients throughout Central Texas, including Round Rock, Cedar Park, and Pflugerville, with convenient access to ongoing glaucoma testing and care.
Call 512-454-8744 or schedule an appointment.