Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)
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Why is LPI Needed?
LPI is recommended to lower the risk of sudden and serious glaucoma attacks or to treat certain diagnosed conditions affecting the eye's drainage system.
LPI helps prevent or treat angle-closure glaucoma by opening a new pathway for fluid drainage.
It may be used as emergency treatment to quickly restore fluid flow if an acute “angle-closure attack” occurs.
LPI lowers eye pressure, guarding against permanent optic nerve damage.
LPI is also performed when the iris blocks natural fluid movement, resolving a 'pupillary block.'
Who is a Candidate for LPI?
LPI is most often recommended if you have narrow or closed angles detected during your eye exam. Some people have higher risk for these angle changes.
- Over age 60
- Female
- Farsighted (hyperopia or smaller eyes)
- Family history of narrow-angle glaucoma
Your eye doctor may recommend LPI based on the specific structure of your eye or if you have certain findings even at a younger age.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Mild, temporary side effects can occur after LPI but are usually short-lived and manageable.
- Temporary blurry vision or mild irritation for a few hours to a day
- Light sensitivity, scratchy sensation, or discomfort that typically resolves within 24 hours
- Anti-inflammatory drops are usually prescribed for several days
- Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and eye pressure
Risks and Side Effects
LPI is low risk, but complications can happen in rare cases.
- Temporary rise in eye pressure soon after the laser treatment
- Mild inflammation or, rarely, slight bleeding at the laser site
- Blurriness, halos, or increased light glare, typically improving over time
- In rare instances, the iridotomy hole may close and need retreatment
Important Things to Remember
Understanding the purpose and limits of LPI helps promote the best outcome for your eye health.
LPI is done to prevent vision loss from glaucoma, not to improve current vision or eliminate glasses
Promptly report severe pain, significant redness, or sudden changes in vision after the procedure
Regular follow-up with your eye doctor remains key to preventing long-term damage
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you will likely be prescribed anti-inflammatory eye drops to reduce irritation and inflammation. Occasionally, eye pressure-lowering drops may be recommended temporarily.
LPI is usually performed one eye at a time to monitor each eye’s response before proceeding with the other. This helps ensure safety and proper healing.
Most people notice mild blurriness or discomfort that resolves in a day or two, though some may have symptoms for slightly longer as the eye heals.
LPI is not a cure but a preventive measure. It greatly reduces the risk of angle-closure but regular monitoring and possibly further treatment are still necessary to manage glaucoma.
Most patients return to normal activities immediately. Avoid rubbing your eye and follow instructions regarding medications and follow-up visits.
LPI does not directly cause cataracts, but as with any procedure, complications are possible. Regular eye exams are important for all patients with glaucoma risk.
If the created hole closes or is insufficient, the doctor may repeat the procedure or consider alternative treatments.
The procedure is generally painless thanks to numbing drops. A brief pinch, pressure, or a pop may be felt, but lasting pain is rare.
LPI is highly effective at lowering the risk of acute attack, but ongoing eye care remains necessary for comprehensive glaucoma management.
While LPI is most often done for older adults, it can be performed at any age if medically indicated after individual assessment.
Care at Alden Leifer, MD and Associates
At Alden Leifer, MD and Associates, our compassionate team in Paterson, NJ, combines decades of expertise with personalized education and support before, during, and after your LPI procedure. Serving Passaic, Bergen, and Essex Counties, we guide you each step of the way to help you “see great till 98,” and beyond! Contact us to schedule your glaucoma screening or consultation today.