Glaucoma surgery requires the deft hand of an experienced eye surgeon. Only an ophthalmologist can perform this type of operation. If you have an optometrist recommend this procedure, trust the Eye Specialists of Illinois in Park Ridge to help you to get this sight-preserving operation.
What Is Glaucoma Surgery?
Glaucoma is a group of conditions that cause damage to the optic nerve. Typically, an eye doctor will prescribe medication to reduce pressure in the eyes, as increased eye pressure is the most common cause of glaucoma. If this option doesn't work, you may need surgery allow your eye to drain properly.
What Types of Surgery Are Available?
Often, an eye doctor may try laser surgery first, unless you have severe damage to your eye or extremely high eye pressure. This form of surgery uses lasers to either open the channels for fluid flow or change the drainage system, called the trabecular meshwork. Most people can return to normal routines the following day.
In cases where laser surgery is not possible, or if it doesn't work, an eye surgeon may choose incisional or filtering surgery. This type of surgery, known as sclerostomy or trabeculectomy, cuts into the sclera to make a small hole for eye drainage. Because the surgeon cuts into the eye for filtering surgery, complete recovery takes longer than laser surgery does. Some people may have blurry vision for up to six weeks while their eye heals. After healing, you may need a new prescription for corrective lenses due to vision changes.
As with any type of operation, always discuss your options and any concerns you have with your eye doctor. Your situation may require laser treatment, then filtering surgery, or you may need incisional surgery instead.
Will Surgery Restore Lost Vision?
Surgery may not be the first option your eye doctor tries. All forms of surgery come with risks, and an eye doctor will carefully evaluate your case to determine if the benefits of glaucoma surgery outweigh any possible risks of having the procedure. If your eye doctor suggests surgery, they have determined that it is the best option for you based on your situation to protect the sight you have remaining.
While glaucoma surgery does not restore lost vision, it can prevent additional damage to your eye. Left unchecked, glaucoma may worsen to severe vision loss or blindness. Surgery can prevent this from happening.
Set an Appointment to Begin the Process of Getting Glaucoma Surgery
At Eye Specialists of Illinois in Park Ridge, we care for our patients' eyes in many ways. If you have glaucoma and need a pressure-relieving surgery, phone our office at (847) 823-2127 today to set an appointment. Let our eye doctors help to stop the sight loss caused by the pressure in your eyes from glaucoma.