The methods of treating glaucoma at our facility include medical treatment of glaucoma and laser treatment of glaucoma. These treatment options for controlling glaucoma are quite important, as glaucoma has no cure. The good news is that in almost all cases, glaucoma is treatable, but must be diagnosed as early as possible. Thanks to advances in medical and laser eye surgery for glaucoma, our glaucoma specialists will be able to recommend an individual treatment plan that is best for you.
The following information is limited to the treatment of primary open-angle glaucoma, as it is the most common type of glaucoma. At EMG, primary open-angle glaucoma is treated by the two different approaches above depending on the severity of the disease and the ability of each treatment option to slow or halt the disease progression and preserve your vision.
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Medical Treatment of Glaucoma
Primary open-angle glaucoma is most often treated with eye drops. There are many types of medications that can be prescribed to lower your Intraocular Pressure (IOP). By using a single type of medication or sometimes 2 eye drops in combination, more than 80% of the patients with open-angle glaucoma can be successfully treated. These eye drops work by either decreasing the amount of fluid being produced inside your eye or by increasing the rate of drainage of fluid from your eye. For most patients, using the eye drops as prescribed-1-2 times per day it is possible to control the Intraocular Pressure (IOP) and slow or even halt the loss of vision.
Unfortunately, some patients may experience side effects of these eye drops making the use of eye drops a poor treatment option. Also, some patients are unable to achieve adequate control with eye drops alone and require laser eye surgery for glaucoma in addition to the eye drops in order to maintain control.
Laser Treatment of Glaucoma
The use of laser eye surgery for treatment for glaucoma has become an important treatment option for many patients. In the past, laser eye surgery for glaucoma was considered a “last resort” before glaucoma surgery. Today, thanks to advances in lasers, using a laser treatment for glaucoma in conjunction with the eye drop treatment or sometimes even using the laser treatment as the primary treatment are excellent options to help maintain control and slow or stop the progression of the disease. Laser treatment for glaucoma is widely used to help prevent vision loss and is becoming a glaucoma treatment of choice for many patients who have problems with eye drops or are unable to use eye drops properly.
Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) is a type of glaucoma laser treatment that helps to reduce the Intraocular Pressure (IOP) by creating more effective drainage of fluid through the Trabecular Meshwork, however, for some patients, the effect of ALT decreases over time, rendering it ineffective. This is limiting, as ALT cannot usually be repeated. Another type of
Another laser treatment for glaucoma is called Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT). This type of laser treatment is the preferred treatment for glaucoma for a number of important reasons. First, SLT appears to be considerably gentler on the eye. Second, should the effect decrease over time, SLT can be repeated several times in order to control the pressure and slow or halt the progression of the disease. SLT is becoming an important treatment option not only for glaucoma patients who are unable to use eye drops and obtain control but as a primary treatment to help glaucoma patients avoid needing to use eye drops altogether. Our eye physicians and surgeons routinely perform all types of laser eye surgery for glaucoma. If laser treatment is the best option to help you control your glaucoma, they will spend the time necessary to explain the risks and benefits so that you fully understand your treatment options.
Glaucoma is a very complex eye disease and not simply an elevated Intraocular Pressure (IOP). Nonetheless, when detected early it can be successfully treated. Glaucoma specialists provide the full scope of advanced technology diagnostic testing and treatment, as well as taking the time necessary to give each patient the personal education needed to fully understand their condition and get the best possible outcomes for their patients.
My experience at EMG was one of the best. The staff was friendly and informative. I felt very comfortable with the entire experience. All my questions were answered and explained.
I had my second cataract surgery yesterday. Dr. France and the surgical staff are really professional, kind, and pleasant. The idea of cataract surgery kind of skeeved me out, but the entire process was smooth, and remarkably painless. Everyone made a point of making sure I was comfortable, and ready. I am grateful to Dr. France and all of his staff (both sides of the office). Thank you!
Elizabeth Jamison
From my initial appointment to set up cataract surgery, I have felt wrapped around with the utmost care and concern. All procedures were clearly explained. I knew that I could call at any time with questions and that I was in expert hands. For surgery, I entered the building and was totally supported. Nurses made me feel comfortable first. Dr. Daly checked in with me. The anesthetist asked questions to make sure that I understood the procedure and to inform me of what I would experience. The procedure was done on time, and I felt assured that I was getting the best of care. I left knowing that my eyes were healing and soon would be renewed. I had a follow-up call to check in with me and remind me that I had an appointment the following day. Post op went smoothly again with the knowledge that I could ask any questions I had as well as being able to call back with any questions I had. The notes and support materials including the video made me feel on top of what I was doing at home. All in all, the very best experience!
Leah Campbell
I was referred to Dr. Hill by Dr. Rhodes from within the group due to apparent dry eye conditions following elective lens replacement surgery by Dr. Sterrer. Although I was happy overall with my lens replacements, I was experiencing some cloudy and inconsistent vision. Dr. Hill and her staff were very helpful in getting me an earlier appointment than I originally had, were extremely thorough and detailed in their baseline evaluation, were confident that they had identified the source of my dry eyes, and gave me great recommendations on home treatment and if office treatment going forward. I feel well taken care of and have confidence that the path forward with lead to improvements that will end up giving me better vision than I already have. Great work!
Jim Sevey
From the first appointment, every staff member of Eyecare Medical Group and Dr. Sise were very kind, informative and professional. I was a very nervous patient at the first cataract surgery and the surgical staff calmed my nerves and helped me relax. I have worn glasses for 57 years, now with both eyes having the cataracts removed I am glasses free. Dr. Sise took the time to explain everything and asked repeatedly if I had any questions. I am so glad I was referred to Eyecare Medical Group and met this amazing practitioner and his staff.
Elizabeth Doherty
Had cataract surgery on both eyes. Dr. France is a miracle worker. First time in 25 years I can see without glasses. His team of nurses are amazing.
Steven Hutton
From the moment I walked in every person that I encountered was amazing! The level of care and concern from all the staff made me feel so at ease with a somewhat nerve-racking procedure that was ahead of me. I can’t say enough good about the whole experience!
Sharon Norman
I could not be more pleased with my experience. Dr. Sterrer did my cataract surgery, and I’m currently seeing Dr. Parnes, who treats my AMD. I have complete confidence in everyone in this practice.
Victoria Armontrout
Bruce Sanderson saw Dr. Kahn and had a minor surgery done. Everything was perfect and I can't spread the word any faster. I accidentally deleted the review you sent me so I'm writing this. Thank you, Bruce.
Bruce Sanderson
I work at a large medical office that prides itself on care without compromise. However, Eyecare Medical Group stands at the top of the list for caring employees. EVERY person there made my husband and I feel welcomed and cared for. They are one in a million! Many thanks to everyone there! :-)
Linda Boucher
I had a really great experience with Dr. Hill and Terry (nurse) at Eyecare Medical Group in Saco! Their new facility, while a bit farther than their Portland office, is gorgeous and has all the equipment needed to evaluate you for chronic dry eye. I was seen immediately after checking in and each eye drop, test, and exam was well explained. I felt like Dr. Hill really listened to my concerns, was respectful, and came up with a good treatment plan for me. I appreciate that she was positive, but also realistic, so I left feeling motivated to implement my new eye health plan. I will be going to Eyecare Medical Group again in four months, and am really happy to continue my eye care with Dr. Hill!
Jenny McKee
Location
Eyecare Medical Group Portland 53 Sewall Street Portland, Maine 04102 207-828-2020 Fax: 207-773-7034
Eyecare Medical Group Saco 655 Main Street Saco, Maine 04072 207-828-2020 Fax: 207-773-7034
From outside the Portland area, call toll-free: 1-888-374-2020
Vision is a complex system that requires specific subspecialists working together to maintain healthy eyes and good vision for the patient. Optometry plays a key role in this. Think of the optometrist as your primary care provider of the eye world. Do you see an orthopedic surgeon for your annual physical exam or instead, do you see a Primary Care Physician (PCP)? Your optometrist is the PCP of your vision. They evaluate the health of the eye and visual system working with you to isolate any potential issues. When appropriate the optometrist will refer and co-manage with sub-specialty ophthalmologists.
EMG works with an amazing network of optometrists that provide excellent primary care for the eyes. We work closely with them to coordinate your care. This allows for the right care, at the right time, by the right expert. It is typically best to start with an optometrist to assess the underlying issue and to outline and coordinate the best possible course of action. While you may not be at 53 Sewall St. in Portland Maine, by working with an optometrist within our network you will always be an EMG patient. When the time comes your optometrist will coordinate with us to have your ophthalmological needs taken care of. Many eye conditions can be managed, and the vision of the patient maintained relatively well. This, however, is often dependent on early detection and intervention. A short appointment now can save your vision later.
