Are there any risks associated with selective laser trabeculoplasty?

Complications after this treatment are uncommon. Occasionally your eye pressure will rise immediately after laser treatment; if this happens, you may need extra treatment before you can go home, usually in the form of eye drops or tablets. We will let you know which treatment you need and will advise you of how long you need to take it for. If we do treat you with eye drops, we will put them in your eye before you leave hospital. You will be asked to remain in the department until your eye pressure has reduced to a satisfactory level. This should take a few hours at most. Other complications include haemorrhage in the eye, which can blur your vision for a few days, or your eye may feel slightly bruised afterwards because of inflammation — this is usually small and can be treated with more frequent steroid drops. You may wish to take a mild painkiller such as Paracetamol to relieve any discomfort. Certain symptoms require urgent attention: excessive pain, loss of vision, flashing lights, or the eye becoming increasingly red. If you experience any of these, telephone us for advice immediately or visit your nearest accident and emergency department.