Glaucoma Surgery
The type of surgery recommended by your doctor will depend on the type and severity of your glaucoma as well as the overall health of your eye. Surgical interventions can help lower intraocular pressure when medications are not sufficient, but it is important to note that surgery cannot reverse vision loss.
Laser Surgery/Treatment
Laser surgery is often recommended before incisional surgery, unless the eye pressure is extremely high, or the optic nerve is significantly damaged. During laser surgery, a focused beam of light is used to treat the eye’s trabecular meshwork, which is part of the eye’s drainage system. This procedure helps to increase the outflow of fluid from the eye, thereby reducing pressure.
Incisional Surgery
Incisional surgery, also known as filtering surgery, involves creating a new drainage hole in the eye using a small surgical tool. This new opening allows the intraocular fluid to bypass the clogged drainage canals and flow out through this new pathway.
When laser surgery is not effective in lowering eye pressure or if the pressure begins to rise again, incisional surgery may be recommended. Sometimes, glaucoma surgery may need to be repeated, especially if excessive scarring occurs or over long periods.
Conventional Surgeries
Trabeculectomy Surgery
During the Trabeculectomy procedure, a tiny opening is made in the sclera (the white part of the eye) to create a new drainage pathway for the intraocular fluid. Antifibrotic medications may be used to prevent scarring and closure of the new opening. The opening is covered by the conjunctiva, forming a bleb on the sclera. This procedure requires stitches, and the recovery period typically lasts a few weeks. Frequent office visits are necessary to manage the healing process and achieve the desired reduction in eye pressure.
Aqueous Shunt Surgery
Aqueous shunt surgery involves implanting a tiny tube that drains fluid out of the eye. Like trabeculectomy, this surgery requires stitches and a recovery period of a few weeks.
Other Glaucoma Surgeries
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) procedures use microsurgical instruments and devices with smaller incisions, resulting in less manipulation of eye tissues and reduced risk of complications. Although these surgeries are safer, they are generally less effective at lowering eye pressure compared to conventional surgeries.
At Mid Florida Eye Center, we are dedicated to providing the most effective and appropriate treatment for your glaucoma. If you have any questions about the surgical options available or need further information, please contact us to schedule a consultation.