Glaucoma

Glaucoma surgery aims to reduce eye pressure to prevent optic nerve damage and preserve vision. There are several types, including laser surgery, trabeculectomy, tube shunt surgery, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Each method helps improve fluid drainage or reduce fluid production in the eye.

BEFORE SURGERY

Glaucoma treatment
  • Medication Adjustments Your doctor may advise you to stop taking certain medications, especially blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin, a few days before the surgery.
  • Pre-Surgical Tests: You might need to undergo various eye tests to assess your eye health and plan the surgery.
  • Dietary Restrictions: Follow any dietary instructions provided by your doctor, such as fasting for a certain period before the surgery.
  • Arrange Transportation: Since you won't be able to drive immediately after the surgery, arrange for someone to take you home.
  • Follow Specific Instructions: Your doctor will give you specific instructions for the day of surgery, such as using prescribed eye drops.

DURING SURGERY

Glaucoma surgery
  • Anesthesia You'll receive local anesthesia to numb your eye, ensuring you don't feel pain during the procedure.
  • IncisionThe surgeon makes a small incision in the white part of your eye (sclera).
  • Creating a Drainage Pathway Depending on the type of surgery, the surgeon will either create a new drainage pathway for the fluid inside your eye or insert a tiny tube (shunt) to help drain the fluid.
  • Closing the Incision: The incision is closed with tiny stitches.

AFTER SURGERY

Glaucoma treatment

After glaucoma surgery, it's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Here are some general post-operative care guidelines:

  • Eye Drops Use the prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Follow the dosage and schedule provided by your doctor.
  • Eye Protection Wear an eye patch or shield as directed, especially while sleeping, to protect your eye from accidental bumps or rubbing.
  • Avoid Strenuous Activities Refrain from heavy lifting, bending over, or engaging in strenuous activities for a few weeks to avoid increasing eye pressure.
  • Keep the Eye Clean Avoid getting water, soap, or shampoo in your eye while bathing. Use a clean, damp cloth to gently clean around your eye.
  • Follow-Up Appointments Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist to monitor your recovery and eye pressure.
  • Monitor Symptoms Watch for any unusual symptoms such as severe pain, vision changes, increased redness, or discharge, and report them to your doctor immediately.
  • Avoid Rubbing Your Eye Do not rub or press on your eye, as this can interfere with the healing process.

Your doctor will provide specific instructions tailored to your situation, so be sure to follow their advice closely for a smooth recovery.
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RISKS & COMPLICATIONS

  • Infection: There's a risk of infection in the eye, which can usually be managed with antibiotics.
  • Bleeding: Bleeding inside the eye can occur, although it's relatively rare.
  • Inflammation: Post-surgery inflammation is common but typically controlled with medication.
  • Vision Loss: In rare cases, there can be temporary or permanent vision loss.
  • Low Eye Pressure (Hypotony): The pressure inside the eye can become too low, leading to complications.
  • Scarring: Scarring at the surgical site can affect the success of the surgery and may require additional procedures.
  • Cataract Formation: There's an increased risk of developing cataracts after glaucoma surgery.
Glaucoma