Glaucoma is one of those conditions that can quietly affect vision for years, and many people don’t realise how serious it can become until treatment needs to change. Eye drops and laser sessions can keep eye pressure under control. But oftentimes, it is better to choose to get a surgery done.
It’s at this point that almost everyone pauses. Here are the top questions on people’s minds. Is glaucoma surgery painful? Will it affect my normal life? What if I end up losing more vision?
Patients also want to understand the bigger picture. Success rates, recovery expectations, and what life looks like afterward. At Vasan Eye Care, our glaucoma specialists walk patients through these questions every day. We know the nerves are real, and we’ve put together this guide to offer clear, honest answers.
Understanding Glaucoma Surgery
Here’s what occurs in glaucoma. The pressure inside your eye rises little by little. Later, this adds stress on your optic nerve. That’s the part that makes your sight possible. Surgery is recommended when this pressure needs stronger control. Its purpose isn’t to bring back lost vision, but to protect the vision you still have and stop the disease from causing more damage in the future. There are two primary surgical approaches:
- Trabeculectomy — Creates a new drainage pathway.
- Glaucoma drainage devices — Implants that help control pressure long-term.
Your doctor will choose the best option based on your problem. This includes the type of glaucoma you have and the amount of pressure on your eye. The stage at which you have consulted the doctor and previous responses to treatment will also be taken into consideration. All this will also impact your glaucoma test cost and follow up charges.
Common Glaucoma Surgery Risks
Like all medical procedures, there are potential surgery risks. These are usually manageable when monitored by experienced surgeons. Some possible risks include:
- Mild redness and discomfort
- Temporary blurred vision
- Fluid leakage from the surgical site
- Infections (rare, but require urgent treatment)
- Scarring that may affect drainage efficiency
- Increased or decreased eye pressure shortly after surgery
Vasan Eye Care minimises complications by using cutting-edge postoperative monitoring and contemporary procedures. If you experience acute pain, loss of vision, flashes of light, or a quick worsening of symptoms, our clinics also offer emergency assistance. You need not worry about the glaucoma test cost either, as you will have many options.
What to Expect During Glaucoma Surgery Recovery
Your recovery experience will depend on the surgical method. Most people notice improvement over weeks. Typical recovery expectations include:
- Resting for a few days
- Using prescribed medicines and eye drops
- Avoiding lifting heavy items, even bending, and strenuous activities
- Keeping water and dust away from the operated eye
- Attending all review appointments for pressure monitoring
Most patients go back to their normal routines in 3 to 4 weeks. Healing time varies and your routine plays a big role in this duration. Don’t skip follow up appointments as eye pressure can vary during this phase. Be informed and explore reliable sources like Vasan’s Glaucoma Services and postoperative care for more information.
Understanding the Glaucoma Surgery Success Rate
Glaucoma surgery has a high success rate in general. Most patients state good relief and success, especially when done early. Success means keeping your eye pressure at a safe level without major side effects. Some of the factors that can affect this include:
- Age
- Types of glaucoma
- Severity at the time of surgery
- Previous eye inflammation or surgeries
- Adherence to postoperative instructions
Your surgeon may still recommend ongoing drops even after retinal surgery. This is normal and helps maintain long-term stability.
When Should You Consider Glaucoma Surgery?
Surgery is recommended when:
- Eye pressure remains high despite medication
- Laser treatments are no longer effective
- Vision continues to deteriorate
- Side effects from drops become difficult to manage
If you are experiencing these symptoms, then surgery is the best bet. It is the most reliable way of protecting the remaining vision you have. Scared about the surgery procedure and how far you have been affected? It is a good idea to do your research on retinal detachment to avoid panic during the surgery.
How Vasan Eye Care Supports Glaucoma Patients
Vasan Eye Care offers complete glaucoma care across South India. They offer everything from diagnosis to surgical follow-up. With centres in major cities and neighbourhood areas, expert help is always within reach. Our specialists use advanced tests and modern surgical options to protect your eyesight.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is glaucoma surgery painful?
No. Local anaesthesia ensures you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Will I still need eye drops after surgery?
Some patients do, depending on how their pressure stabilises.
Can glaucoma surgery restore lost vision?
Unfortunately, no. The surgery prevents further damage but cannot reverse nerve loss.
How long does recovery take?
Most people resume normal activities within a few weeks, with complete healing taking about 6–8 weeks.