MIGS

What is Migs?

Glaucoma is one of the most common reasons for permanent vision loss among men and women and can even lead to blindness. As a renowned board-certified and fellowship-trained ophthalmologist, Dr. Steven Yaplee performs minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) for Bakersfield, CA patients with high-level skill and refined technique. MIGS is a collection of innovative techniques specifically designed to minimize or prevent optic nerve damage by lowering pressure within the eye. Performed through microscopic incisions, equipment, and advanced technology, MIGS can be conducted at almost all stages of a glaucoma condition. Contact Triangle Eye Institute today to schedule a MIGS consultation with our eye doctor, and learn more about managing your glaucoma.

What to expect with Migs

As one of the foremost glaucoma specialists and MIGS-trained surgeons in Kern and Tulare counties, Dr. Yaplee is able to offer a variety of MIGS treatments for our glaucoma patients. Each MIGS treatment at Triangle Eye Institute is performed via the most advanced technology and equipment.

  • iStent® is a small implant placed within the eye to enhance its ability to drain fluid naturally, reducing ocular pressure.
  • The Hydrus® Microstent is a small implant placed within Schlemm’s canal to help manage the natural flow of ocular fluid within the eye.
  • A viscocanalostomy creates flaps to expose Schlemm’s canal (a primary drainage canal within the eye). A high-viscosity gel is introduced into the canal, which enlarges its diameter to help enhance the flow of fluid and prevent a buildup of pressure.
  • A Kahook Dual Blade® goniotomy utilizes this specialized device to remove the trabecular meshwork within Schlemm’s canal in a more minimally invasive manner, allowing for increased flow of ocular fluid.
  • The OMNI® Surgical System employs a special device that enables Dr. Yaplee to perform a viscocanalostomy to open Schlemm’s canal and a trabeculotomy to remove part of the meshwork to manage fluid flow within the eye.
  • i-Track™ is a surgical system that uses a patented illuminated microcatheter tip to enhance precision when performing ABiC™ (ab interno canaloplasty) to dilate Schlemm’s canal and reduce intraocular pressure.

MIGS treatments are often provided as outpatient procedures and are carried out rather efficiently with many only taking around 15 minutes to complete.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does MIGS surgery hurt?

    No, it doesn’t. None of the MIGS treatments for glaucoma are painful because before he begins, Dr. Yaplee will numb your eyes with anesthetic drops. Most patients don’t feel anything, but if they do, they have reported a slight feeling of pressure.

    Is MIGS surgery for glaucoma safe?

    Yes, MIGS surgery is generally considered safe for the majority of glaucoma patients. MIGS carries a lower risk of complications than other glaucoma treatments. Traditional glaucoma surgeries are still safe and effective, but MIGS provides a less invasive option to treat glaucoma.

    How long does MIGS last?

    Studies have shown that if a patient’s glaucoma has been controlled for five years with a MIGS procedure and then they have a traditional trabeculectomy, they may go the rest of their life without serious loss of vision.

    Are you asleep for MIGS glaucoma surgery?

    No, you aren’t. During MIGS procedures, patients are awake with their eyes completely numbed with anesthetic drops.

    Advanced Glaucoma Care

    Advancements in technology have given way to minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries, allowing ophthalmologists, like Dr. Yaplee, to provide multiple options for safely managing this condition. Reach out to Triangle Eye Institute to schedule a MIGS consultation at our Bakersfield or Delano, CA office, and learn more about your options for care. Our friendly team will be happy to provide additional information on MIGS, insurance coverage, and other details surrounding this approach to glaucoma treatment.