Minimally Invasive Procedures
Batchelet Eye offers a variety of in-office procedures. These minimally invasive procedures provide a faster recovery time allowing patients to resume their normal activities. We are glad we can provide this convenience and accessibility to our patients in the office setting.
Trabeculoplasty
Selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) involves the use of a laser to target the trabecular meshwork (where the colored iris meets the white sclera) to stimulate better fluid drainage, thus reducing intraocular pressure. This is a painless and non-invasive 5-minute procedure. SLT is a safe procedure that works well in newly diagnosed patients as well as patients with more established glaucoma. It may need to be repeated at intervals over the years to maintain its effect, but this is safe to do and helps limit the number of drops a patient must take.
YAG Capsulotomy
A YAG capsulotomy is a laser procedure used to treat a common complication after cataract surgery called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), often referred to as a “secondary cataract.” After cataract surgery, the natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). However, in some cases, the back portion of the lens capsule (the membrane that holds the IOL) becomes cloudy over time, causing blurry vision similar to the original cataract.
The YAG laser is used to create a small opening in the cloudy lens capsule, allowing light to pass through, restoring clear vision. This procedure is completed in the clinic and is quick, painless, usually taking no more than one minute.
YAG Peripheral Iridotomy
A YAG PI (YAG Peripheral Iridotomy) is a laser procedure used to treat angle-closure glaucoma or, more commonly, to prevent it. An angle-closure attack occurs when the drainage angle of the eye becomes blocked, leading to a dangerous rise in intraocular pressure (IOP). The eye can be thought of as an enclosed sink. It has a “faucet” called the ciliary body that makes fluid behind your iris, and a “drain” called the trabecular meshwork that lets the fluid leave the eye at the same rate. Some people, often due to genetics, cataract formation, small eye dimensions, and other factors, don’t have much space for the pupil to open wide without closure of the trabecular meshwork and a dangerous increase in IOP.
In this procedure, a laser is used to create an extremely small hole in the peripheral part of the iris (the colored part of the eye). This hole allows fluid (aqueous humor) to flow more freely, bypassing the blocked drainage angle and preventing or relieving elevated eye pressure. It is a short 3-minute procedure that involves very mild temporary discomfort done in the clinic.
Minor Plastic Surgery
Skin Lesion Removal
At Batchelet Eye, we are equipped to remove minor skin lesions on the eyelids or around the eyes. These procedures usually require very little time and are painless except for a small numbing injection underneath the lesion. If the lesion appears more complex or concerning for skin cancer, you will be referred to experts who specialize in that type of surgery.
Eyelid Inflammation Treatment (Chalazions)
Additionally, we can treat eyelid inflammation known as chalazions, which are commonly called styes. Dr. Batchelet recommends applying frequent dry microwavable hot compresses to the area several times daily until the acute pain and inflammation subsides. If it doesn’t resolve completely, it is common to develop a firm, non-tender kernel left in its place. At this point, Dr. Batchelet would remove the residual material in a procedure called an I & C. This is a short office procedure meant to drain the lesion and resolve the issue. It is extremely safe and effective.