Microinvasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

Microinvasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) is safe and designed to provide lasting pressure control from trusted ophthalmology specialists.

What Is MIGS?

Microinvasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) lowers eye pressure with tiny devices and precise techniques that help the eye drain fluid more effectively. Unlike older operations that require large incisions, MIGS uses microscopic tools through small openings, which supports quicker recovery and long-term control for many patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma.

MIGS is a family of minimally invasive procedures that target the eye’s drainage system or fluid production to reduce intraocular pressure. Results can last for years with proper follow-up. Many patients choose MIGS to reduce medication burden, shorten recovery time compared with older surgeries, and maintain an active daily life.

View Video

Imagery of blocked trabecular meshwork that can happen with glaucoma.

How MIGS Surgery Works

MIGS is not one surgery; it is a set of techniques your surgeon selects based on your eyes and pressure goals.

  • Trabecular bypass (for example, iStent, Hydrus Microstent): creates tiny openings in the trabecular meshwork to improve outflow.
  • Canaloplasty: uses a microcatheter to expand Schlemm’s canal, supporting the eye’s natural drainage.
  • Suprachoroidal procedures involve routing fluid into the suprachoroidal space to create a new pathway.
  • Cyclophotocoagulation: targets the ciliary body to reduce fluid production.

Most MIGS procedures are completed in under an hour. Many are performed simultaneously with cataract surgery, allowing patients to improve their vision and control glaucoma in a single operation.

How MIGS Is Changing Glaucoma Care

For decades, glaucoma surgery meant choosing between medications, laser treatments, or primary operations like trabeculectomy and tube-shunt implants (Ahmed, Baerveldt). These traditional surgeries are effective but come with a higher risk of complications and longer healing times.

MIGS bridges the gap, offering meaningful pressure reduction with far fewer risks. Because the procedures are less invasive, patients often experience:

  • Shorter procedure times
  • Quicker visual recovery
  • Minimal post-operative discomfort
  • Fewer serious complications
  • The possibility of combining MIGS with cataract surgery
Image of a tonopen with average pressure.

Is MIGS Right for You?

If you have glaucoma and want better pressure control or fewer drops, a quick evaluation can help determine your options.

Schedule a Glaucoma Evaluation

MIGS Made Simple: Coverage, Candidacy & Care

1

Are You a Candidate for MIGS?

You may be a good candidate if you have mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma, need additional pressure reduction, are planning cataract surgery, experience side effects from drops, or want a safer alternative to traditional filtering surgery. Your West Texas Eye Associates surgeon will review your eye health, pressure targets, and goals to determine the most suitable approach.

2

Choosing the Right Ophthalmology Specialist

Outcomes improve with experience. West Texas Eye Associates provides fellowship-trained surgeons, modern MIGS options, and coordinated follow-up. Ask about the surgeon’s experience, which MIGS options they offer, expected durability, and alternatives such as laser treatments or traditional surgery.

3

Insurance and Coverage

Coverage for Microinvasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) varies by plan. Medicare and many private insurers cover MIGS when medically necessary. Some plans reimburse when MIGS is combined with cataract surgery, others cover MIGS as a stand-alone procedure. Patients should confirm pre-authorization and out-of-pocket details with both their surgeon and insurer.

4

Safety and Side Effects

Most patients tolerate MIGS well. Short-term effects can include mild irritation, light sensitivity, temporary blurring, or a short-term pressure change, which your doctor will monitor and treat if needed. Serious complications are less common than with older filtering surgeries. For an authoritative overview, read here.

MIGS: Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

No. MIGS slows progression by lowering eye pressure. You will still need regular exams and long-term monitoring.

Many patients experience lasting pressure control. Durability depends on the device and your individual response. Your surgeon will review expectations.

Success varies by technique and diagnosis. Your doctor will match the procedure to your pressure goals and review outcomes for your situation.

Laser options, such as SLT, can be used before or after MIGS. Your surgeon will explain the sequence and how each method fits your care plan.