Glaucoma Surgery
Glaucoma is an eye disease that damages the optic nerve and causes vision loss. It is often referred to as the “silent thief of sight” because there are usually no early warning symptoms.
What does glaucoma surgery entail?
Glaucoma surgery involves making a very small incision to drain fluid and release pressure on the eye. Your glaucoma surgeon may insert shunts or implants into the eye to replace the eye’s drainage system.
Is glaucoma surgery painful?
Patients who undergo glaucoma surgery usually do not experience significant pain during or after the surgery. Like any surgery, many patients experience mild discomfort for a few weeks following surgery.
How long with the surgery take?
The surgery itself, only takes 45 minutes. However, you should plan on being at the surgery center for 2-4 hours. During this time, we will review necessary forms, conduct the surgical procedure and provide post-operative care.
What should I expect after surgery?
While recovery time varies by patient, most patients heal within three to six weeks after surgery. After surgery, expect to devote the first day or two to recovery time. Stay home and relax. Avoid heavy lifting, exercise, and other strenuous activity, including stressful work. After a couple of days, you may resume driving.
Immediately after the procedure:
- You will need someone to drive you home. Most patients will be driving and back to work within one to two weeks.
- You will return to our office the following day for your postoperative appointment.
Make sure that you don’t rub or scratch your eyes after glaucoma surgery. It’s common for vision to be a bit blurry and for your eyes to sometimes feel itchy. Be sure to take all prescribed eye drops. They help both deter any itchy or scratchy sensations and to avoid developing an infection.