Hospital alert: Updated visitation guidelines currently in effect. Please review before your visit.

Glaucoma Surgery

Also known as: Trabeculectomy, Glaucoma drainage procedures A procedure to reduce pressure inside the eye, helping protect vision and slow the progression of glaucoma. Specialty: Ophthalmology

Overview

Glaucoma surgery is performed to treat glaucoma, a condition that damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. If you are advised to have this procedure, it is usually because pressure levels are not adequately controlled with medication or other treatments.

The goal of the procedure is to lower pressure in the eye to help prevent further damage to vision. While it may not restore vision that has already been lost, it plays an important role in preserving the vision you have.

When It's Needed

You may need glaucoma surgery if you have:

  • Eye pressure that is not controlled with medication
  • Progressive changes in vision
  • Findings suggesting ongoing optic nerve damage
  • Difficulty managing glaucoma with other treatments

How It's Performed

The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia, sometimes with mild sedation. It may involve:

  1. Creating a new pathway for fluid to drain from the eye
  2. Reducing fluid production within the eye
  3. Using small devices or techniques to help control pressure

The approach depends on the type and severity of glaucoma. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes and is often performed as a day or short-stay procedure.

What to Expect

Recovery

Recovery may take longer than some other eye procedures and requires careful follow-up. You may need to use prescribed eye drops and attend regular reviews to monitor pressure and healing.

Your care team will guide you on activity, eye care, and follow-up.

Diagnostics & Tests

Before the procedure, your condition may be assessed using:

These help determine the need for surgery and guide treatment planning.

Support Services

You may receive support such as:

Ready when you are

Ready to take the next step?

Speak to a Nakasero specialist this week — or call our 24/7 line if you need care right now.

Scroll to Top