Here’s What to Expect with Your Glaucoma Surgery
Separate the Facts from the Myths
Treating your glaucoma at its earliest stage is crucial to maintaining the health of your eyes, without encountering further damage. If you suspect that you have serious vision problems, visit an ophthalmology eye specialist as soon as possible. And when medical treatments are no longer effective, it might be time for surgery.
You have various options for laser and surgical management of glaucoma, including the following:
- Laser Trabeculoplasty
- Transscleral Diode Cyclophotocoagulation
- Trabeculectomy
- Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS)
- Glaucoma implant surgery
Though glaucoma has no known cure, it can be managed if treated early.
Let’s look at some of your choices.
Laser Trabeculoplasty
Used as a treatment for open-angle glaucoma, laser trabeculoplasty applies laser light to the eye’s trabecular network of tiny channels where fluid drains from the eye. This laser energy enhances a more natural flow of fluid from the front of the eye, lowering pressure.
Standard Trabeculectomy
In this delicate surgery, the surgeon makes a tiny hole in the wall of the eye and creates a flap of sorts to allow fluid to escape in a measured fashion. The escaping fluid reduces pressure on the eye.
M.I.G.S.
These minimally invasive surgeries utilize microscopic-sized equipment and miniscule incisions, providing milder, gentler versions of traditional surgery. While generally regarded as safer, with less complications than other glaucoma surgeries, they are often reserved for mild or moderate forms of glaucoma.
Implant Surgery
Utilized when conventional surgeries are not effective, the implant procedure involves inserting a small tube into the front chamber of the eye. Fluid drains through the tube into an area at the back end of the implant, where it collects and is reabsorbed.
Transscleral Diode Cyclophotocoagulation
Transscleral diode laser cyclophotocoagulation is an effective and safe method to reduce eye pressure by decreasing the production of fluid inside the eye.
Medicare and Most Insurance Accepted
GLAUCOMA SURGERY FAQ
Glaucoma surgery is a medical procedure aimed at treating glaucoma, a group of eye conditions that can damage the optic nerve and cause vision loss. It is typically considered when other treatments, such as medication or laser therapy, have not effectively controlled the disease’s progression.
In most cases, we recommend incisional surgeries for individuals who have explored less invasive treatments without significant improvement. If you’ve already attempted prescribed medications and laser therapies, or have experienced limited success with prior procedures such as Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS), you may be a potential candidate for glaucoma surgery.
Deciding if you need glaucoma surgery is best determined through consultation with an ophthalmologist or eye specialist. They assess factors that include your eye health, glaucoma severity, and treatment response. Consult with an ophthalmologist to determine if surgery is necessary.
Glaucoma surgeries come in various types to address specific patient needs. In recent years, minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS) are among the most common options.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) is a modern approach to glaucoma treatment. It encompasses various procedures that offer alternatives to traditional, more invasive surgeries, with fewer associated risks.
Advances in anesthesia techniques ensure patient comfort during glaucoma surgery. Typically, patients receive local anesthesia and sedation to remain pain-free during the procedure. Most patients are comfortably sedated or lightly asleep during surgery.
Recovery time following glaucoma surgery varies depending on the specific procedure and the individual patient. In general, most patients can expect to heal within three to six weeks. It is recommended to avoid strenuous activities during the postoperative recovery period. Patients may experience discomfort, redness, and blurred vision, but these improve over time. Recovery duration can vary, but symptoms gradually improve.
Glaucoma surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and complications. These may include vision loss, infection, bleeding, or elevated intraocular pressure.
Eye drops may still be recommended after surgery, depending on the type and individual needs. They assist in lubrication, reducing inflammation, preventing infection, and promoting healing.
Many insurance plans, including Medicare, do cover glaucoma surgery, due to its importance in preserving vision. Coverage details may vary, so it’s advisable to review your policy or contact your insurance provider.
While surgery is one option, alternative options may be explored with the guidance of your healthcare provider.