Argon Laser

What is Argon laser treatment?
Argon laser treatment can be used to treat a number of eye conditions including glaucoma, diabetic eye disease and some retinal holes and tears. It can also be used to prevent an eye condition from getting worse, and sometimes to cure it.

How does Argon laser work?
The laser machine is attached to a slit-lamp microscope, similar to that used when your eyes are being examined in the consulting rooms. A very intense beam of light is directed onto the retina to carry out the treatment.

What are the risks and side effects?
• Swelling of the retina (Macular oedema). This improves with time.
• On rare occasions the eye may become red and painfull.
• There is a small risk of the vision becoming worse.
• A second treatment may be needed
• Temporary reduced night vision for several hours.
• Temporary reduced colour vision for several hours.
• Laser treatment may cause some loss of peripheral vision depending on your eye condidtion, but the aim is to preserve central and colour vision.