Various surgical procedures, both traditional surgery and laser surgery, can make a difference in a glaucoma sufferer’s life. It’s true that a possible side effect of glaucoma surgery is the development of cataracts in some eyes. However, cataracts are much easier to treat than glaucoma. Surgical procedures to correct glaucoma include:

Laser Trabeculoplasty – A laser surgery procedure that is now standard treatment for open-angle glaucoma. A safe and fast outpatient procedure that requires almost no recuperation, it normally takes about five minutes per eye and is usually painless.

First the eye is numbed with an anesthetic. The laser is aimed at the drainage channels in the eye, in order to make a tiny hole and let the fluid drain more easily. It normally works for 80 percent of people and the effects last for five years.

Most people will need to continue their medications even after laser treatment. After the operation a person may have slightly blurred vision and some redness in the eyes that lasts a day or so.

Trabeculectomy – A traditional surgical procedure where a tiny hole is made in the sclera, the “white” part of the eye, out of which fluid drains. It may take six to eight weeks for vision to return to the same level as before the operation. This procedure is used to provide long-term relief from high pressure without the use of medication.

The professionals at Midwest Eye Care can effectively execute these surgical techniques to reinstate your eye site. Contact us now to arrange a consultation.

©2006 Midwest Eye Care