iStent inject W is a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) procedure that implants two heparin-coated titanium stents through the trabecular meshwork to improve the eye's natural drainage and lower intraocular pressure. It is most commonly performed at the same time as cataract surgery, where the MIGS element is added from £2,400 on top of the cataract price (a combined cataract-plus-iStent procedure from around £5,300). The "W" denotes the wide-flange version of the second-generation iStent inject, designed for secure, well-positioned placement. It suits patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma who want to control pressure and reduce their drop burden.
What is the iStent inject W?
The iStent inject W, made by Glaukos, is the latest refinement of the trabecular micro-bypass stent. Through a single preloaded injector the surgeon places two tiny titanium stents across the trabecular meshwork into Schlemm's canal — the eye's natural drainage channel. By creating two bypass openings, aqueous fluid drains more freely, lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), the main treatable risk factor in glaucoma. Each stent is among the smallest medical devices implanted in the human body.
It is one of several glaucoma treatment options. Because the stents are microscopic and placed through the same incision used for cataract surgery, MIGS carries a far lower risk profile and faster recovery than traditional filtration surgery such as trabeculectomy, while easing reliance on drops. You can read more about the underlying condition on our glaucoma information page.
Who might consider it
- Mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma in a patient who also needs cataract surgery.
- Difficulty tolerating glaucoma drops — side effects, allergy or trouble instilling them.
- Those wishing to reduce their drop burden while protecting the optic nerve.
- Pressure not fully controlled on one or two topical medications.
Wondering if iStent inject W is right for you? A glaucoma consultation reviews your pressures, optic nerve and drops to confirm suitability and exact cost.
Book a glaucoma consultationHow iStent inject W compares
The right MIGS device depends on your glaucoma severity, your drainage angle and whether you also need cataract surgery. Your surgeon will recommend the best fit.
Not sure which route suits you? Our guide to glaucoma treatment options — drops vs SLT vs MIGS explains how the choices compare, and milder cases may start with SLT laser treatment. Where cataract and glaucoma are treated together, see combined phaco-MIGS surgery.
How iStent inject W is implanted
When combined with cataract surgery, the stents are placed once the cloudy lens has been removed and the new intraocular lens is in place — adding only a few minutes to the operation. As a standalone procedure it takes around 15–20 minutes. It is usually performed under local anaesthetic as a day case.
- Numbing drops (or a local anaesthetic) are given and the eye is cleaned and prepared.
- A tiny self-sealing incision is made — the same one used for cataract surgery when combined.
- Using a gonioscopy lens to view the drainage angle, the surgeon advances the injector to the trabecular meshwork.
- Two stents are placed across the meshwork into Schlemm's canal to open new drainage pathways.
- The eye is checked and shielded; you rest briefly before going home the same day.
Recovery
Recovery from MIGS is generally quick and comfortable. When combined with cataract surgery, the recovery follows your cataract healing.
Day of surgery
Mild grittiness or blur is normal. An eye shield is worn the first night and anti-inflammatory drops begin.
First week
Vision settles and any redness fades. A review checks the eye pressure and healing. Avoid rubbing the eye and heavy lifting.
Weeks 2–6
Drops are tapered as advised. Your surgeon assesses how far your pressure has fallen and whether glaucoma drops can be reduced.
Ongoing
Regular glaucoma monitoring continues to confirm the pressure is controlled and the optic nerve protected long term.
iStent inject W cost
Our pricing is all-inclusive — there are no separate charges for the device, theatre or routine aftercare.
- With cataract surgery: the MIGS element is added from £2,400 on top of your cataract surgery price — a combined cataract-plus-iStent procedure from around £5,300.
- Insurance: recognised by Bupa, AXA, Aviva, Vitality, Cigna and WPA where MIGS is clinically indicated. We handle pre-authorisation.
- Finance: 0% options available to spread the cost.
- Prefer a standalone device? The three-stent iStent infinite is designed to be used without cataract surgery.
Compare with the rest of our glaucoma surgery pricing.