In this case abnormal retinal blood vessels cause bleeding and scarring of the macula. These blood vessels may be treated with the argon or krypton laser to prevent further damage to the macula. Lasers can be used to treat glaucoma . Glaucoma can affect the optic nerve when the intraocular pressure is elevated for an extended period of time. Loss of vision from glaucoma can often be prevented if your ophthalmologist discovers this disorder before much damage occurs to the optic nerve.
Eye drops or pills are the usual way to treat glaucoma.
If that does not control pressure within the eye, laser surgery may be used to create a tiny opening, allowing excess fluid within the eye to drain to reduce pressure on the optic nerve. Preparing for Surgery Most laser surgery of the eye does not require any special preparations. Click here for more general information on preparing for surgery. During Surgery Laser surgery is usually quick and painless. Depending on the type of surgery, you may be required to use eye drops.