As with any surgical procedure there are potential risks that need to be weighed against the benefits, Glaucoma is no different. Even the most advanced cases of Glaucoma can be treated, patients need to collaborate with their eye surgeon to ensure the benefits offset the risks.
Glaucoma is a disease that is associated with aging. It is a disease of the eye that causes advanced decline of the optic nerve. The optic nerve which is at the back of the eye carries the visual message from the retina to your brain. Glaucoma is caused by increased pressure within the eye that doesn’t provide an environment for the nerve’s health.
In order to treat Glaucoma, the IOP (intraocular pressure) must be lowered. Lowering the intraocular pressure prevents (or slows) the damage to the optic nerve. Treating Glaucoma begins with the use of medication. If this fails to treat or your eyes do not tolerate the treatment your ophthalmologists will often turn to surgical procedures.
There are two different types of surgery that can be performed to treat Glaucoma. One method is using a miniscule incision into the trabeculectomy. This can be done with or without the ExPRESS microshunt implantation, tube shunt implantation (which is a glaucoma drainage device), and cyclophotocoagulation. Another surgical Glaucoma procedure that is often performed is known as MIGS, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. Surgical procedures all have their own unique set of risks and rewards. Before you have any surgical procedure on your eye, especially for the treatment of Glaucoma, it is important to have talk with your surgeon about your specific diagnosis and the benefits and dangers of the specific Glaucoma surgery best for your specific situation.
Glaucoma Surgery Benefits Outweigh the Risks in Most Situations Even in Advanced Cases
There are risks involved with any surgery however, the results with Glaucoma surgery are typically successful. Success in Glaucoma surgery slows the progression of the disease. Success means that the intended eye pressure was achieved. If Glaucoma was left untreated, the loss of your vision is almost guaranteed. Surgery can help to prevent additional vision loss, often improving your vision. This however is temporary as the damage with Glaucoma has already occurred and is permanent. Surgery doesn’t reverse the damage it does however slow down the progression.
Although side effects do occur with Glaucoma, they are rare. Here is a list of occasional side effects that patients have reported:
• Vision Loss
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Eye Pressure
• Scarring
• Cataracts
Rohr Eye & Laser Center offers the most advanced technology available to suit your lifestyle and visual needs. As a leader in laser vision correction and cataract surgery, our goal is to help you achieve the best vision possible without glasses or contact lenses. More information can be found online at https://michiganlasik.com.