Trabeculectomy And Tube Shunts in West Springfield, MA

FAQ

What Are the Alternatives to a Trabeculectomy?

Tube shunts are an excellent alternative to having a trabeculectomy. In addition, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery can also be performed. The exact procedure that you need will depend on the stage of glaucoma and your overall health. All of the alternatives will be discussed in consultation to ensure you understand what they are and how they can improve your vision. 

How Long Does a Trabeculectomy Take?

The procedure can take between 45 minutes to an hour. However, some patients usually need to spend a few hours prior to the procedure for preparation and a few hours afterward for observation to ensure they are stable.

Is the Procedure Painful?

A trabeculectomy is typically performed under local anesthesia, so you should be comfortable during the procedure. After the procedure, it is not uncommon for patients to feel slight discomfort, which can be easily managed with over-the-counter medication.

Can I Resume Normal Activities After a Trabeculectomy?

It is a good idea to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks after a trabeculectomy. During your initial consultation and follow-up, your treating physician will go over the specifics to ensure that you understand what you can and cannot do, in addition to when you can resume normal activities. 

Will Trabeculectomy Restore My Vision?

Trabeculectomies are performed to prevent further vision loss, as opposed to restoring lost vision. This is why early detection of glaucoma is so important. When diagnosed early, it is not uncommon to maintain higher visual acuity than when glaucoma is diagnosed in its later stages. 

Will I Still Need To Use My Glaucoma Medication After My Surgery?

This will depend on what stage your glaucoma is preoperatively. Some patients may find that they need less medication than they did before, while other patients may be able to discontinue their medication altogether. Keep in mind that every patient is different, so it is important not to compare your situation to another patient’s. Your treating ophthalmologist will review all of the pros and cons of intervention prior to the procedure to ensure you have a complete understanding of the possible outcome.