If you have been diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma and eye drops alone aren’t enough to control intraocular pressure, your eye doctor may recommend the OMNI glaucoma procedure. The OMNI surgical system is a unique treatment that can target multiple causes of intraocular pressure buildup.
OMNI is a MIGS (micro-invasive glaucoma surgery) procedure that uses advanced technology for better treatment outcomes, fewer side effects, and shorter recovery times. Keep reading to learn more about how OMNI Surgical System works, as well as the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the procedure!
What is OMNI Glaucoma Surgery?
The OMNI surgical system works by improving the flow of aqueous humor, which is the fluid that can cause a rise in eye pressure, through the eye’s drainage channels. Three structures within the eye, known as the trabecular meshwork, Schlemm’s canal, and distal collector channel, work together to ensure proper drainage.
It can be difficult to pinpoint which structure may be blocked and causing eye pressure to increase. Most glaucoma surgeries target only one structure at a time, which may or may not be the source of the blockage.
What sets OMNI glaucoma surgery apart is that it targets all three structures simultaneously, increasing the chances of successful treatment with just one MIGS procedure. It uses a specially designed device to clear potential blockages in all three of the structures that drain aqueous humor.
Not all MIGS procedures can be done as a standalone procedure. In fact, many MIGS procedures must be done in conjunction with cataract surgery. However, OMNI can be performed as a standalone procedure or in combination with cataract surgery, making it much more versatile compared to other types of MIGS.
Ten Commonly Asked Questions About OMNI Glaucoma Surgery
Here are the answers to ten of the most commonly asked questions about OMNI to help you gain a better understanding of the procedure:
1. What is MIGS?
MIGS procedures are less invasive glaucoma procedures that use advanced technologies to lower intraocular pressure with shorter recovery times.
2. Is MIGS better than other glaucoma surgeries?
Whether MIGS is better depends on the individual needs of each patient, although they often cause less eye trauma, fewer complications, and smoother recovery.
3. How long does OMNI glaucoma surgery take?
The procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes, so it is very quick.
4. Is the procedure painful?
OMNI is minimally invasive and typically performed under local anesthesia, so most patients experience no pain during the procedure. Many don’t even remember it once they wake up.
5. Can I drive right after OMNI?
Your vision may be blurry immediately after OMNI because of the eye drips used during the procedure, so you must arrange a ride home after the surgery.
6. How long is recovery from OMNI?
While patients may experience some discomfort and blurry vision immediately after OMNI, most report a reduction in eye pressure and improvement in vision within the first few weeks after the procedure.
7. Is OMNI glaucoma surgery typically successful?
OMNI glaucoma surgery generally works well to lower eye pressure and reduce the need for glaucoma medications. It’s a less invasive option than traditional surgeries, which means easier recovery and fewer complications. While it helps most patients, some may still need eye drops afterward.
8. How long do the results of OMNI last?
For many patients, OMNI offers a consistent reduction in intraocular pressure for several years.
9. Is OMNI covered by insurance?
Like most glaucoma surgeries, OMNI is usually covered by insurance and Medicare, though patients may still have out-of-pocket costs, including co-pays, deductibles, and coinsurance.
10. Can OMNI be performed in combination with other procedures?
OMNI can safely be performed in combination with other procedures, such as cataract surgery, and it can be particularly beneficial for patients who want to address several conditions at the same time.
Is OMNI Right for You?
With innovative treatments like OMNI, a glaucoma diagnosis does not have to result in the loss of your precious vision. It can address multiple structures in the eye in a single procedure for effective, long-lasting reduction of intraocular pressure.
If you’re interested in learning more about OMNI or whether or not it might be right for you, schedule an appointment at Fichte, Endl, & Elmer Eyecare in Buffalo, NY, or call us at 1-800-309-2020 now!
