Glaucoma is a silent yet serious condition that, if left untreated, can lead to significant vision loss. At Associated Eye Physicians, we are committed to providing compassionate, cutting-edge care to our patients managing glaucoma. Two advanced surgical options available for glaucoma treatment are minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) and tube shunt surgeries.
What Makes MIGS a Game-Changer for Glaucoma?
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) are an exciting advancement in the treatment of glaucoma, designed to lower intraocular pressure in a safer and less invasive way than traditional surgeries. MIGS procedures work by improving the eye’s natural drainage system or reducing the production of intraocular fluid, helping to manage glaucoma effectively while minimizing recovery time and surgical risks. These procedures are often done in conjunction with cataract surgery, using the same small incisions, which means fewer disruptions to the eye.
MIGS procedures are less invasive, often completed in just a few minutes, and provide benefits such as shorter recovery times and reduced reliance on eye drops. Imagine regaining better control over your intraocular pressure without a lengthy healing process. For many, MIGS offer a transformative way to stabilize eye health and enjoy an improved quality of life.
Who Benefits Most from MIGS?
MIGS is especially beneficial for patients with mild to moderate glaucoma, offering a gentle yet effective approach to controlling the disease and potentially reducing the need for daily medications. These procedures are particularly beneficial for those already using one or two eye drops or undergoing cataract surgery.
MIGS are well-suited for patients who:
- Are managing mild to moderate glaucoma
- Use one or two types of eye drops to control intraocular pressure
- Are planning or undergoing cataract surgery and seek an added benefit
For patients seeking a minimally invasive procedure with quicker recovery, MIGS can be a highly effective choice.
Understanding Tube Shunt Surgery
Tube shunts are a surgical option for controlling glaucoma when other treatments like eye drops, pills, or laser therapy aren’t enough to lower eye pressure. These devices don’t improve vision but help prevent further vision loss by creating a new drainage pathway for fluid in the eye. During the procedure, a small silicone tube is placed in the front of the eye, connected to a plate hidden under the upper eyelid.
The surgery is an outpatient procedure, typically done with local anesthesia. Healing takes time, and the tube usually begins working fully about six weeks after surgery. Some temporary symptoms like blurry vision or light sensitivity are common but improve with time. Regular follow-ups with our eye doctor are scheduled to ensure the implant is working properly and to manage your glaucoma effectively.
Who Should Consider Tube Shunt Surgery?
For more advanced glaucoma cases or when MIGS may not suffice, tube shunt surgery becomes an invaluable option.
This procedure is often recommended for individuals with:
- Severe glaucoma unresponsive to other treatments
- A history of eye trauma or inflammation
- High intraocular pressure requiring urgent intervention
Tube shunts provide a powerful solution for patients needing robust control over their glaucoma, often when other treatments fall short.
Spotlight on Our Fellowship-Trained Glaucoma Specialist: Dr. Paige Hershkin
When it comes to glaucoma care, precision and expertise make all the difference—and that’s exactly what Dr. Paige Hershkin brings to her patients every day. A board-certified ophthalmologist with specialized training in glaucoma treatment and cataract surgery, Dr. Hershkin is committed to preserving vision with the most advanced, patient-centered techniques available.
Her dedication to excellence began with a fellowship in glaucoma at the prestigious New York Eye & Ear Infirmary, where she later served as a preceptor, mentoring residents during their glaucoma rotations. She also shaped the next generation of eye doctors as a professor at the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, teaching general ophthalmology and supervising students in her private practice.
Dr. Hershkin is renowned for her expertise in:
✔ Laser Dropless Surgery – A cutting-edge approach reducing the need for post-op eye drops, enhancing convenience and comfort.
✔ Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – Offering safer, effective alternatives to traditional procedures with faster recovery times.
✔ Complex Glaucoma Management – From traditional surgeries like trabeculectomy to the latest drainage implants, ensuring tailored solutions for each patient.
✔ Cataract Surgery with Glaucoma Care Integration – Combining premium intraocular lens options with glaucoma management for optimized visual outcomes.
With over two decades at Associated Eye Physicians & Surgeons, Dr. Hershkin has earned a reputation for her meticulous attention to detail, warm bedside manner, and unwavering commitment to her patients. Her recognition as one of New Jersey’s Top Doctors is a testament to the trust she’s built with both her colleagues and the community.
Whether you're exploring MIGS or tube shunt surgery, Dr. Hershkin and our team at Associated Eye Physicians are here to answer your questions and provide personalized recommendations. Your vision and well-being are our priorities, and we are committed to helping you navigate your options with confidence.
Dr. Hershkin warmly welcomes new patients in Belleville, Rahway, Union, and Jersey City.
Visit New Jersey’s Glaucoma Care Team
Managing glaucoma is a journey, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team at Associated Eye Physicians is here to support you every step of the way, combining advanced treatments with compassionate care to ensure your eyes receive the attention they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward safeguarding your vision.