Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss if not managed properly. For some patients, prescription eye drops or laser treatments are enough to control pressure in the eye. But when these options aren’t effective, surgery may be recommended. At Chapel Hill Ophthalmology in Chapel Hill, NC, we want patients to feel confident and informed about what glaucoma surgery involves.

The Goal of Glaucoma Surgery

The main purpose of surgery is to lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Elevated pressure inside the eye is the biggest risk factor for glaucoma-related damage. By creating a new way for fluid (called aqueous humor) to drain from the eye, surgery helps protect the optic nerve and preserve vision.

Common Surgical Approaches

There are several types of glaucoma surgery, and the right choice depends on the patient’s needs:

• Trabeculectomy – The surgeon creates a small flap in the white of the eye (sclera) and a tiny reservoir under the eyelid to help fluid drain more effectively.
• Glaucoma Drainage Implants – Small, tube-like devices are placed in the eye to improve fluid outflow.
• Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – These newer procedures use microscopic tools and tiny incisions, offering quicker recovery and fewer complications.

What to Expect During the Eye Surgery

Glaucoma surgeries are typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients can go home the same day. Before surgery, numbing medication is applied, and in some cases, mild sedation is provided for comfort. The procedure itself usually takes less than an hour.

Recovery and Follow-Up Care

After surgery, patients may notice mild irritation, blurred vision, or light sensitivity. Prescription eye drops are often given to prevent infection and aid healing. Follow-up appointments are crucial to ensure the surgery is working as intended and that eye pressure remains stable.

Take the Next Step by Calling Our Ophthalmologists near You

While glaucoma surgery cannot reverse vision already lost, it can be a powerful tool for slowing or halting further damage. At Chapel Hill Ophthalmology in Chapel Hill, NC, our team provides careful evaluations and personalized treatment plans to help patients manage glaucoma with confidence. Call us today at (919) 942-8701 to learn more or to schedule a visit.