What it is
Glaucoma is progressive damage to the optic nerve, almost always related to the pressure inside the eye. Peripheral vision goes first, so slowly that the person does not notice until the damage is extensive. That is why it is looked for in the exam rather than waiting for a symptom.
There is no cure, but there is control: lowering the pressure of the eye stops or slows the damage. It is done with drops, laser or surgery, and the choice depends on the type of glaucoma, how far it has advanced and how each eye responds. Follow-up is for life.
What's included
- Glaucoma surgery
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
- Glaucoma treatment
Techniques and procedures
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01
Glaucoma treatment
The first step is usually drops that lower the pressure, with follow-up of pressure, visual field and optic nerve imaging (OCT) to confirm the damage is not progressing. When drops are not enough or are not tolerated, the next step is laser or surgery.
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02
Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
A group of techniques with very small incisions and tiny implants that improve the drainage of the eye. They are meant for mild to moderate glaucoma, often combined with cataract surgery, with a faster recovery than traditional surgery.
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03
Glaucoma surgery
When the pressure needs to come down further: a trabeculectomy creates a new outflow path for the fluid of the eye, and drainage devices (valves) carry it to a reservoir. They are reserved for advanced glaucoma or cases that cannot be controlled any other way.
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04
Laser for glaucoma
Trabeculoplasty (SLT) improves the natural drainage and can reduce or replace drops in open angle glaucoma; an iridotomy opens a passage in the iris in angle closure glaucoma. Both are brief procedures with no incision.
Who treats it
When to get checked
- You are over 40 and have never had your eye pressure measured.
- There is glaucoma in your immediate family: the risk is several times higher.
- You have high myopia, diabetes, or use steroids frequently.
- You notice you bump into things at your sides or struggle to see at night.
- Intense eye pain with blurry vision, halos and nausea: this is an emergency, come in the same day.
If any of these sound familiar, the sensible step is an assessment: that is where you find out what is going on and what to do about it.
General guidance. It does not replace an assessment by a specialist.
Related services
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Consultations and diagnostics
Comprehensive exams, subspecialty consultations and diagnostic testing: the starting point of any treatment.
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Laser and ocular surface
Laser procedures and dry eye treatment: caring for the ocular surface and the tear film.
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Cornea and refractive surgery
Refractive surgery, corneal transplants and treatment of corneal disease, from refractive errors to clouding.
Accreditations
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Mexican Board of Ophthalmology
All three doctors, board-certified in the specialty.
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COFEPRIS
Current operating notice with the federal health authority.
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Centro Médico ABC
All three doctors, members of its medical society.
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Instituto de Oftalmología
Fundación Conde de Valenciana IAP.
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Mexican Society of Ophthalmology
Active members, current in their subspecialty.
Contact
Where we are
Arrive 10 minutes before your appointment: the clinic is in Torre A, fifth floor, and the entrance and the elevator take a moment.
- Prolongación Vasco de Quiroga 4001
- Torre A, Piso 5, Consultorio 5
- Santa Fe, 05310
- Cuajimalpa, Ciudad de México
Write to us
Leave us your details and we will contact you the same day to coordinate your visit.
Notes
What is worth knowing about your eyes
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Glaucoma gives almost no warning
Side vision goes little by little and the brain fills in what is missing. By the time you notice, the optic nerve is damaged.
Dra. Jasbeth Jahaira Ledesma Gil
Read note -
If glaucoma runs in your family
Your check-ups start earlier. Pressure alone is not enough: the optic nerve and the visual field are assessed too, and repeated over time.
Dra. Jasbeth Jahaira Ledesma Gil
Read note -
Glaucoma drops are for every day
They are not felt and they do not relieve a symptom: that is why they get forgotten. What they do is hold the pressure while the nerve holds on.
Dra. Jasbeth Jahaira Ledesma Gil
Read note
Frequently asked questions
What people ask us most before their first visit
Do I need a referral to book a visit?
No. You can book your consultation directly. If another doctor referred you, please bring their notes and any tests: they help us avoid repeating work that is already done.
How long does the first assessment take?
Between 30 and 60 minutes. It includes a full eye exam.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Your current glasses, a list of the medications you take and any previous eye tests or prescriptions. If you wear contact lenses, ask us how long before the visit you should take them out.
Will my pupils be dilated? Can I drive afterwards?
Often yes, especially for retina and glaucoma exams. The drops leave your vision blurry and light-sensitive for a couple of hours, so it is best to bring someone along or not drive back.
Where is the clinic?
In Santa Fe, inside an office tower: Prolongación Vasco de Quiroga 4001, Tower A, 5th floor, office 5. Allow a few minutes for the entrance and the elevator; the "Directions" button opens the route on the map.