Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

What Is Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)?

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery is a group of surgical techniques designed to control glaucoma with smaller incisions, less tissue disruption, and faster recovery. 

Unlike conventional filtering surgeries, MIGS surgery uses advanced devices to improve fluid drainage from the eye. As a form of minimally invasive eye surgery, it focuses on lowering pressure while preserving natural eye structures whenever possible.

How Does MIGS Work to Treat Glaucoma?

MIGS treatment involves using specialised micro-instruments or tiny stents inserted through tiny openings in the eye. These create new drainage pathways or enhance existing ones, allowing fluid to exit more efficiently. 

This supports long-term glaucoma pressure management and prevents damage to the optic nerve. By reducing reliance on drops, eye surgery for glaucoma through MIGS provides patients with an effective, targeted, and safe alternative.

Benefits of Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) Over Traditional Methods

The benefits of MIGS include smaller incisions, quicker healing, and fewer complications. Unlike conventional surgery, which often carries a higher risk of scarring or infection, MIGS vs traditional glaucoma surgery offers a gentler approach.

Patients experience reduced discomfort, shorter recovery times, and a lower chance of side effects. These advantages of MIGS make it a preferred choice for many glaucoma patients who need surgical care.

Who Is a Good Candidate for MIGS?

Candidates for MIGS are typically those with early to moderate stages of glaucoma. Patients who have tried medications or laser therapies without sufficient control may be ideal. 

Glaucoma candidates include adults who still have functional outflow pathways and wish to reduce dependence on drops. The best candidates for MIGS are those needing surgical intervention with minimal disruption to their daily lives.

Types of Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery Procedures

• Stent-Based MIGS Procedures

Glaucoma stent surgery utilises tiny implants, such as the iStent procedure or Hydrus microstent, to create permanent channels for fluid drainage. These stents are placed inside the eye’s natural drainage system, lowering pressure safely and effectively. They are particularly helpful when combined with cataract surgery, offering long-term relief with minimal additional risk.

• Trabecular Bypass MIGS

Trabecular meshwork surgery involves bypassing the natural resistance within the eye’s drainage system. With a MIGS trabecular bypass, fluid flows directly into Schlemm’s canal, significantly reducing pressure. This option is often recommended for patients where traditional drops or laser therapy have failed, but surgery must remain minimally invasive.

What to Expect During a MIGS Procedure

• Pre-Surgery Preparation for MIGS

Before MIGS preparation, patients undergo detailed examinations, including eye pressure checks, gonioscopy, and a review of their medical history. Current medications are assessed, and the target intraocular pressure is discussed. 

Patients may be advised to adjust certain drops or avoid specific drugs before the procedure. Clear planning ensures the MIGS surgery preparation stage is safe and smooth.

• During the MIGS Procedure

The MIGS surgery steps are straightforward. Under local anaesthesia, a surgeon makes a very small incision at the corneal edge. 

Using advanced micro-instruments, a stent or bypass device is inserted. The MIGS surgical procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes, and patients typically return home the same day. 

Recovery and Aftercare After Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery

MIGS recovery is generally faster than with conventional surgery. Most patients notice less discomfort and return to daily activities sooner. The MIGS healing process involves close follow-up to monitor intraocular pressure and eye stability. The overall recovery time after MIGS is often just a few weeks, depending on the individual.

The MIGS healing process involves close follow-up to monitor intraocular pressure and eye stability. The overall recovery time after MIGS is often just a few weeks, depending on the individual.

• Post-Surgery Care and Instructions

MIGS aftercare includes using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection or inflammation. Patients should avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or swimming during the first few weeks. Following all post-surgery instructions for MIGS helps ensure successful outcomes and minimises complications.

• When to Return to Normal Activities

Most patients resume normal routines within a week. Light office work is often safe after a few days, while exercise may need to be avoided for two to three weeks. 

MIGS activity restrictions are temporary, and patients typically return to their normal life routine quickly. Returning to normal life after MIGS is faster compared to traditional glaucoma surgeries.

Potential Risks and Complications of MIGS

Although considered safe, MIGS procedures carry risks, including minor bleeding, inflammation, or temporary fluctuations in eye pressure. Rarely, devices may move or additional surgery may be required. Compared with traditional methods, MIGS complications are far less frequent. The overall risks of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery remain low, and outcomes are generally excellent when proper care and follow-up are provided.

Why Choose MIGS for Glaucoma Treatment?

There are many reasons to consider choosing MIGS. It offers quick recovery, minimal discomfort, and effective pressure control with fewer risks. 

As part of modern glaucoma management, MIGS advantages are well-suited for patients who seek reliable results with minimal downtime. For many, MIGS for eye health is the ideal way to strike a balance between safety and success, highlighting the core benefits of MIGS for patients with glaucoma.

Conclusion: Is Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery Right for You?

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery represents an important step in advancing glaucoma care. It offers patients effective pressure reduction with reduced risks and quicker recovery compared with older methods. 

The decision to undergo MIGS depends on the stage of glaucoma, overall health, and the results of previous treatments. Patients should consult their ophthalmologist to decide whether MIGS is the best choice among today’s glaucoma surgery options.