Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the US. Yet, surgery is usually the only option on the table when glaucoma is caught in its advanced stage. The good news is that you have nothing to worry about regarding glaucoma surgery. Seeta Eye Centers has the technology and skill to perform glaucoma surgery to restore your eye health to its former self.
What Is Glaucoma?
Your eye constantly produces aqueous humor, a fluid that keeps your eye in shape. As this fluid enters your eye, the same amount should drain through the drainage angle. This process maintains the eye pressure stable. However, when the angle isn't working optimally, pressure builds up, damaging your optic nerve.
The optic nerve sends signals to the brain. When it starts failing, you may notice blind spots in your vision. You will likely develop total vision loss if treatment isn't sought early.
Types of Glaucoma
There are two glaucoma types. Open-angle glaucoma occurs when the eye doesn't drain the liquid as it should. Over time, excess fluid in the eye causes pressure buildup. Often, this type of glaucoma doesn't cause symptoms until the disease is advanced.
Angle-closure glaucoma occurs when the iris is too close to the drainage angle, clogging the drainage. When the drainage becomes completely blocked, the intraocular pressure builds up quickly, and you need the services of an ophthalmologist to salvage your vision.
Glaucoma Surgery
The damage caused by glaucoma can't be reversed, but it's possible to manage with medication. Eye drops reduce eye pressure by improving drainage or reducing the amount of aqueous humor produced. Surgery may be the best option to restore your vision when glaucoma medication fails to work. Common types of glaucoma surgery include:
- Laser surgery: This treatment is minimally invasive, first recommended by eye doctors before incision. An ophthalmologist focuses a beam of light on the eye's drainage system during laser surgery to repair it. This surgery improves the flow of liquids out of the eye.
- Surgical procedure: This involves creating a drainage hole with a surgical tool. This new hole encourages the flow of fluids out of the eye, helping keep eye pressure low. While surgery can stabilize your vision for a long time, you still need closer monitoring by your eye doctor.
After glaucoma surgery, you may experience side effects like swelling, redness, and irritation. However, these signs only last for a few days. In addition, most people don't experience pain after glaucoma surgery. So, consult your eye doctor if you have pain after glaucoma surgery.
Ophthalmologist Near Me
Been told surgery is the only way to overcome glaucoma? You don't have to worry much. Seeta Eye Centers, serving Poughkeepsie and Yorktown, NY, provide safe and effective glaucoma surgery services. Book an appointment today to recover your eye health by calling (845) 454-1025 or (845) 440-1175.
