Glaucoma surgery is one of the most common types of eye surgery in the United States. Success rates are very similar to LASIK eye surgery. Our optometrist in Clemson has performed hundreds of these procedures at Clemson Family Eye. If you're thinking about having glaucoma surgery, our Clemson optometrist will work with you to ensure that you are familiar with the procedure and are a good candidate.
When is it Time for Glaucoma Surgery?
Glaucoma is a disease that affects the optic nerve. Over time it can eventually cause blindness. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available for glaucoma. Most eye doctors will start their patients on medications to control the progression of the disease. When those medications stop working, however, an eye doctor will likely recommend surgery for the condition.
What Happens During Glaucoma Surgery?
There are three different types of glaucoma surgery. Our eye doctor will be able to determine which type of surgery is appropriate for your eyes.
Trabeculectomy
This type of surgery lasts about an hour and is intended for people with open-angle glaucoma. During this surgery, a tiny opening is made at the top of your eyeball that allows excess fluid to drain out.
Implant Surgery
This is usually is a surgery for people who have congenital forms of glaucoma, but it can be performed on people with other types of this condition. The surgeon will place a small tube in the white part of the eye that will drain away fluid over time. Eventually, this tube will dissolve on its own.
MIGS
MIGS, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery is relatively new. It can take several different forms, but all of these procedures are designed to be performed in the eye doctor's office while the patient is conscious. Typically, the eye is numbed for these types of procedures.
Schedule an Appointment with Our Optometrist in Clemson
If you are having problems with your vision, it's probably time to find an "optometrist near me" or "eye doctors near me" and schedule "eye exams near me" with an eye doctor in Clemson. An "eye doctor near me" will be able to diagnose your vision issues and screen for common eye diseases. Call us today at (864) 722-9205 for more information or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor.