The future of glaucoma treatment is here — gentle, precise, and contact-free.
For generations, glaucoma was treated using methods that relied on direct contact with the eye. Drops, surgeries, and laser procedures required precise placement and careful handling, often causing anxiety for patients. But thanks to modern innovation, glaucoma care is evolving toward a more comfortable, precise, and efficient future.
At Anaheim Eye Institute, we’re proud to offer the latest in non-contact laser technology, including Voyager™ Direct Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (DSLT), a groundbreaking approach that eliminates many of the challenges of traditional glaucoma treatments. It’s safe, fast, and requires no physical contact with the eye, making it a true game-changer in preserving vision.
Understanding Glaucoma and Its Impact
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. It develops silently, often without symptoms, as increased intraocular pressure (IOP) damages the optic nerve over time. Because this damage cannot be reversed, early detection and timely treatment are essential.
Traditionally, glaucoma management has involved:
- Prescription eye drops to lower eye pressure.
- Laser trabeculoplasty treatments using contact-based lasers.
- Surgical procedures in more advanced cases to improve fluid drainage.
While effective, these methods can be inconvenient or uncomfortable for patients. Eye drops require daily use and careful adherence, while contact lasers demand precise alignment and involve touching the cornea — something that can be unsettling for many people.
That’s where non-contact laser technology changes everything.
“For patients with glaucoma, comfort and precision are no longer trade-offs. Non-contact lasers deliver both.”
What Is Non-Contact Laser Glaucoma Treatment?
Non-contact laser therapy, such as Voyager™ DSLT, uses a sophisticated optical system that delivers laser energy directly to the eye’s drainage tissue — but without ever touching the surface.
Instead of requiring a lens to be placed on the cornea, the device uses a specially designed system that projects a gentle, low-energy laser pulse from a short distance. The procedure takes just a few minutes per eye and requires no anesthesia, drops, or recovery downtime.
During treatment, the laser targets the trabecular meshwork, the part of the eye responsible for fluid drainage. By stimulating natural cellular responses, it improves fluid outflow and reduces intraocular pressure safely and effectively.
The Benefits of Going Contact-Free
The advantages of non-contact laser treatment go far beyond convenience. For patients and physicians alike, the shift represents a meaningful step forward in glaucoma care.
1. Greater Comfort and Safety
Traditional contact lasers require a lens placed directly on the eye, which can cause discomfort and sometimes minor irritation. With non-contact technology, that physical touch is eliminated, reducing anxiety and risk of infection or corneal damage.
2. Faster Procedure Times
A typical Voyager™ DSLT session lasts just a few minutes. The simplicity of setup and the lack of contact make the experience remarkably efficient for both patient and doctor.
3. No Need for Anesthetic Drops or Recovery Time
Because there’s no physical contact, patients can return to normal activities almost immediately. Most experience minimal to no side effects.
4. Consistent, Precise Results
Non-contact lasers provide uniform coverage of the drainage tissue, delivering consistent results with less operator variability than traditional methods.
5. Drop-Free Alternative
For patients who struggle with daily eye drops or have difficulty maintaining adherence, laser therapy offers an excellent alternative or complement to medication.
“The Voyager™ DSLT makes glaucoma treatment feel less like a medical procedure and more like a moment of care — quick, easy, and precise.”
How Voyager™ DSLT Differs From Traditional SLT
While both Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT) and Direct SLT (DSLT) aim to lower intraocular pressure by improving drainage, their approaches differ significantly.
| Feature | Traditional SLT | Voyager™ DSLT (Non-Contact) |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Contact | Requires a contact lens on the cornea | No contact with the eye surface |
| Anesthetic | Topical drops required | No anesthetic needed |
| Treatment Time | 10–15 minutes | 1–2 minutes |
| Comfort Level | May cause mild discomfort | Completely comfortable |
| Recovery | Mild irritation or redness possible | No downtime |
These differences may seem small, but for patients managing a chronic condition like glaucoma, they make a world of difference.
Who Can Benefit from Non-Contact Laser Therapy?
Voyager™ DSLT is suitable for many patients with open-angle glaucoma, ocular hypertension, or those seeking to reduce their reliance on daily drops. It’s often recommended as a first-line treatment or as an adjunct to existing medication for better pressure control.
It can also be a great option for:
- Patients who have difficulty using eye drops regularly.
- Those who prefer a minimally invasive, quick procedure.
- Individuals with sensitivity to topical medications.
Your eye doctor will perform a comprehensive exam to determine whether you’re a good candidate. At Anaheim Eye Institute, every treatment plan is customized based on your specific eye pressure, optic nerve health, and lifestyle.
The Patient Experience at Anaheim Eye
One of the most impressive aspects of non-contact laser glaucoma therapy is how simple and comfortable it feels. Here’s what you can expect during a typical visit:
-
Evaluation and Explanation
Your ophthalmologist will examine your eyes, review your history, and discuss your goals. The procedure is explained in detail, so you know exactly what to expect. -
Painless Procedure
You’ll sit comfortably at the laser device, much like you would during an eye exam. The treatment itself is quick, gentle, and silent. Most patients report no sensation at all. -
Post-Treatment Assessment
Afterward, your eye pressure may be checked, but most patients can resume normal activities right away. There are typically no restrictions or special care instructions needed. -
Follow-Up
Over the next several weeks, your doctor will monitor eye pressure improvements and determine whether additional sessions are needed.
Real Results, Real Relief
Clinical studies have shown that non-contact DSLT provides comparable or better intraocular pressure reduction than traditional SLT, often with fewer side effects. Many patients experience sustained improvements for months or even years, significantly reducing their need for medication.
“We’re entering an era where glaucoma care doesn’t have to feel clinical or invasive — it can feel personal, modern, and empowering.”
A Vision of the Future
Glaucoma affects millions of Americans, yet only a fraction receive timely treatment due to fear or discomfort associated with older methods. Non-contact laser systems like Voyager™ DSLT are helping bridge that gap by making care more accessible and patient-friendly.
At Anaheim Eye Institute, our mission is to protect and preserve vision using the most advanced, evidence-based technologies available. From early diagnosis to ongoing management, our glaucoma specialists provide compassionate, individualized care that puts comfort and confidence first.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with glaucoma, now is the time to explore the benefits of non-contact laser therapy. This innovative treatment offers the precision of laser technology without the discomfort of traditional approaches.
Schedule your consultation with Anaheim Eye Institute today to learn how Voyager™ DSLT and our team of specialists can help protect your vision for years to come.
