Glaucoma Treatment

Advanced surgical and laser treatments to reduce intraocular pressure and protect your vision from glaucoma damage.

15-60 minRecovery: 2-6 weeksLasts: Varies (may need repeat treatment)

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Quick Overview

Duration

15-60 min

Anesthesia

Topical or local

Stay in Clinic

Usually outpatient

Back to Work

1-7 days

Full Recovery

2-6 weeks

Results Visible

1-4 weeks

Longevity

Varies (may need repeat treatment)

What is Glaucoma Treatment?

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to abnormally high intraocular pressure (IOP). Left untreated, it leads to irreversible vision loss and is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide.

While medication (eye drops) is the first line of treatment, many patients eventually require laser or surgical intervention to adequately control their eye pressure. Modern treatments range from minimally invasive laser procedures to advanced micro-invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS).

Early detection and consistent treatment are crucial — vision lost to glaucoma cannot be recovered, but further damage can be prevented with proper management.

Techniques & Approaches

Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)

A gentle laser targets the drainage tissue (trabecular meshwork) to improve fluid outflow. Quick, non-invasive, and repeatable. Often a first-line surgical option.

Trabeculectomy

A small channel is created in the sclera to allow fluid to drain from the eye into a bleb under the conjunctiva. The gold standard for significant pressure reduction.

MIGS (Micro-Invasive Glaucoma Surgery)

A family of newer procedures using tiny devices or micro-incisions to improve fluid drainage. Safer than traditional surgery with faster recovery, often combined with cataract surgery.

Drainage Implants / Tubes

A small tube is placed in the eye to drain excess fluid to a reservoir plate. Used for complex or refractory glaucoma that hasn't responded to other treatments.

Benefits

Preserves remaining vision by controlling eye pressure
Multiple treatment options from minimally invasive to surgical
Laser procedures are quick and can be done in the office
MIGS options have excellent safety profiles
Can reduce dependence on daily eye drops
Long-term pressure control helps prevent further nerve damage

Ideal Candidate

Patients diagnosed with glaucoma or ocular hypertension where eye drops alone are insufficient, not tolerated, or difficult to maintain. Also suitable as a primary treatment for certain types of glaucoma.

Before & After Care

Preparation

Complete visual field testing and optic nerve imaging
Review all current medications with your ophthalmologist
Continue using prescribed eye drops until instructed otherwise
Arrange transportation for surgery day
Discuss expected outcomes and realistic pressure targets

Aftercare

Use prescribed anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops
Attend all follow-up appointments for pressure monitoring
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for the advised period
Do not rub or press on the eye
Continue any remaining glaucoma medications as instructed

Risks & Considerations

All medical procedures carry some degree of risk. Discuss these thoroughly with your surgeon during consultation.

Temporary blurry vision after the procedure
Eye pressure too low or too high initially
Scarring that reduces effectiveness over time (trabeculectomy)
Infection (rare but serious)
Bleeding inside the eye
May need additional procedures or continued medication

Recovery Timeline

Recovery varies significantly by procedure type. SLT laser requires minimal recovery — patients can usually resume normal activities the next day. Trabeculectomy requires more careful recovery over 2-6 weeks, with restricted activities and frequent follow-up visits. MIGS procedures typically fall in between. Regular IOP monitoring is essential in the weeks following any procedure.

Pricing

Varies by treatment type

Prices vary by clinic, technique, and lens type. Contact clinics directly for exact pricing.

Compare Clinic Prices

Frequently Asked Questions

Can glaucoma be cured?

Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed. The goal of treatment is to lower eye pressure to a level that prevents further optic nerve damage. With proper treatment, most patients maintain useful vision for life.

Will I still need eye drops after surgery?

Many patients can reduce or eliminate eye drops after surgery, but some may still need them. The goal is to achieve target pressure with the fewest medications possible.

Is glaucoma surgery painful?

No. The eye is numbed with drops or a local anesthetic. You may feel slight pressure but no pain. Some mild discomfort is normal during recovery.

How long does the pressure reduction last?

This depends on the procedure. SLT effects may last 3-5 years and can be repeated. Trabeculectomy and tube surgery can provide lasting pressure control for many years, though some patients eventually need additional treatment.