You can’t feel it. You can’t see it coming. And by the time most people notice something’s wrong, glaucoma has already stolen part of their vision—permanently.

That’s why we don’t wait for symptoms. At Eye Care Center LTD, we use cutting-edge technology and proven clinical techniques to catch glaucoma long before it robs you of what matters most. Here’s exactly how we do it.

Across our Addison, Burbank, and Willowbrook clinics, we use a combination of advanced imaging and classic examination techniques to catch glaucoma early and monitor it accurately.

  • Maestro OCT Imaging: This gives us a detailed look at your optic nerve and retinal nerve fiber layer. I rely on OCT heavily because it shows microscopic changes long before symptoms appear.
  • Humphrey Visual Field Testing: This helps us measure how glaucoma may be affecting your side vision. Even if your central vision seems fine, this test can uncover early changes.
  • Goldmann Applanation Tonometry (GAT): This is the gold standard for measuring eye pressure. Whenever accurate pressure readings are critical (glaucoma diagnosis, progression checks, or borderline cases) we use Goldmann at the slit lamp.
  • iCare & Tonopen (Supplemental Tools): These handheld devices are great for patients who:
    • Can’t sit at the slit lamp
    • Are pediatric or anxious
    • Need quick or repeat IOP checks They are convenient, but when precision matters, we always confirm with Goldmann.
  • Gonioscopy / Angle Assessment: This lets us evaluate whether the drainage angle is open, narrow, or at risk for closure, a key part of determining the type of glaucoma.

What’s New in Glaucoma Care (2024–2025)

Glaucoma care continues to evolve, and we’ve been integrating newer approaches into our clinical decision-making.

  • AI-Enhanced OCT Interpretation: Newer software uses artificial intelligence to compare your scans against large national databases. It doesn’t replace the doctor, but it helps us catch subtle, early changes with even more confidence.
  • Sustained-Release Medication Options: The industry is moving toward long-acting treatments that reduce the need for daily drops, including:
    • Medication-eluting implants
    • Drug-filled punctal plugs
    • Emerging microneedle technologies These are especially helpful for patients who struggle with drop adherence or preservative irritation.
  • MIGS (Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery): When drops aren’t enough, we co-manage modern MIGS procedures alongside cataract surgery. These surgeries help lower pressure with less downtime and fewer side effects than traditional glaucoma surgeries.
  • Home IOP Monitoring (Emerging Trend): New devices are being developed that let certain patients check eye pressure at home, giving us a better picture of daily pressure fluctuations.

How We Manage Glaucoma Long-Term

If you’re diagnosed with glaucoma or are considered a glaucoma suspect, here’s what your care typically includes:

  • OCT at least annually
  • Visual fields every 6 to 12 months
  • Goldmann pressure checks at visits where accuracy matters
  • Angle evaluation when indicated
  • Fundus photography to monitor optic nerve appearance
  • Customized treatment plans: drops, sustained-release therapy, or surgical co-management
  • Education on how sleep apnea, blood pressure, diabetes, and steroid use can influence glaucoma

We tailor treatment because no two glaucoma patients are exactly the same.

Final Thoughts

Glaucoma is serious, but with early diagnosis and proper monitoring, we can preserve vision for a lifetime. If you haven’t had a dilated eye exam in a while, or if glaucoma runs in your family, this month is the perfect time to check in.

Our team is here to help you protect your sight with the best technology and care available.