Advanced, Lower-Risk Options for Glaucoma Management
Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that can quietly damage the optic nerve and lead to permanent vision loss if left untreated. For many patients, eye drops and medications can help manage intraocular pressure. However, when these treatments are insufficient, or patients want a more convenient, long-term solution, Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) can be an excellent next step.
At the Willis Knighton Eye Institute, Dr. Christopher Shelby, Dr. Wyche T. Coleman, III, and Dr. Kelli Coleman offer a full range of MIGS procedures designed to safely lower eye pressure using tiny, precise surgical techniques. These modern procedures are performed through very small incisions, resulting in less discomfort, faster recovery, and fewer risks than traditional glaucoma surgery.
What Is MIGS?
MIGS refers to a group of procedures that improve the eye’s natural fluid drainage system to reduce intraocular pressure. These techniques use microscopic devices and advanced technology to enhance outflow without significantly altering the eye’s anatomy.
Because MIGS procedures are both effective and gentle, they are often an ideal option for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma, especially when performed at the same time as cataract surgery.
Types of MIGS Procedures We Offer
iStent Inject
These tiny stents are placed inside the eye to create a permanent channel that helps fluid drain more efficiently. They are often implanted during cataract surgery and have been shown to significantly reduce eye pressure and, in many cases, lessen or eliminate the need for daily glaucoma drops.
Hydrus Microstent
The Hydrus Microstent is a flexible, curved device placed in the eye’s natural drainage canal to widen and support improving outflow and lowering pressure. It is especially helpful for patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.
Kahook Dual Blade Goniotomy (KDB)
This procedure removes a small strip of tissue that blocks the eye’s drainage pathway. By opening this natural channel, KDB can improve long-term pressure control without the use of implanted devices.
OMNI & VIA360 Canaloplasty and Trabeculotomy
The OMNI & VIA360 surgical system allows surgeons to open the eye’s natural outflow pathways using a single device. It is particularly beneficial for patients who need more substantial pressure reduction while still avoiding more aggressive glaucoma surgery.
Why Choose Our Surgeons for MIGS?
At the Willis Knighton Eye Institute, patients have access to a team of experienced anterior segment surgeons trained in the latest MIGS techniques. Dr. Christoher Shelby, Dr. Wyche T. Coleman, III, and Dr. Kelli Coleman evaluate each patient individually to determine which procedure, or combination of procedures, will best support long-term vision and pressure control.
Their approach focuses on:
- Personalized treatment planningbased on glaucoma type and severity
- Advanced surgical technologyfor precision and safety
- Minimally invasive techniquesdesigned to protect healthy tissue
- Coordinated carebetween all three surgeons for seamless follow-up and ongoing management
For many patients, MIGS offers a meaningful reduction in eye pressure, fewer medications, and a smoother recovery—often performed at the same time as cataract surgery for added convenience.
Protecting Vision with Modern, Patient-Centered Care
Glaucoma is a lifelong condition, but with the right treatment plan, patients can enjoy excellent vision and quality of life for years to come. Through MIGS, Dr. Christopher Shelby, Dr. Wyche T. Coleman, III, and Dr. Kelli Coleman provide safe, effective options that support long-term eye health with less disruption and faster healing.
