Glaucoma
What is MIGS, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery?
MIGS stands for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery, a group of procedures that improve the eye's own drainage through very small incisions, often at the same time as cataract surgery. Recovery is usually quicker and gentler than traditional drainage surgery, and the pressure reduction is more modest, which suits mild to moderate glaucoma.
How MIGS differs from traditional surgery
Trabeculectomy and drainage devices create a new route out of the eye and can achieve very low pressures, at the cost of a longer recovery and more intensive follow up. MIGS works with the eye's existing drainage pathway, avoids a bleb in most cases, and typically reduces pressure and the number of drops needed rather than removing treatment entirely.
Who it may suit
- Mild to moderate open angle glaucoma needing better control
- Patients who also need cataract surgery, so both can be done in one session
- People who struggle with drops, through side effects, cost or difficulty instilling them
- Those who want to avoid or postpone more invasive drainage surgery
What to expect
The procedure is done under the operating microscope through the same small incisions used for cataract surgery. Most people go home the same day and recover over a few weeks, using anti inflammatory drops. Pressure is checked in the following days and weeks, and your glaucoma drops are adjusted only on your ophthalmologist's instruction.
Limits to understand
MIGS is not suitable for every eye, particularly advanced glaucoma needing a very low pressure, and it may not remove the need for drops. Like every glaucoma treatment it protects remaining vision rather than restoring sight already lost, and outcomes vary between individuals. Your ophthalmologist will discuss whether it is appropriate for your eyes.
Frequently asked questions
- Can MIGS be combined with cataract surgery?
- Yes, and that is a common approach, since one operation can both improve vision and lower eye pressure.
- Will I still need drops after MIGS?
- Often fewer, sometimes none, but this varies and monitoring continues either way.
Concerned about these symptoms?
Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.
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Related answers
- When is glaucoma surgery needed?
- What is a trabeculectomy?
- What is a glaucoma drainage device?
- What laser treatments are used for glaucoma?
Return to all glaucoma answers.