Glaucoma is caused by the buildup of pressure in the eye; this pressure on the eye’s optic nerve can cause permanent vision loss and, without treatment, blindness. Glaucoma usually affects both eyes but may be worse in one eye.

This surgical treatment for glaucoma is called laser trabeculoplasty.  The laser makes small burns on the tubes that drain fluid from the eye to increase the flow of fluids out of the eye and decrease the eye pressure.  One type of this laser surgery, called selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), is used as a primary treatment.  SLT uses a lower power laser which is less damaging to tissue.

The procedure’s price varies a lot as it can be done in a number of settings – like a doctor’s office, an outpatient center, or a hospital outpatient department.  In most cases medications are used as the primary treatment for glaucoma.  

These are 2023 prices.  Use the link below to see if you can get a current, personalized cost estimate from your health insurer.