Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve and can lead to permanent vision loss. While glaucoma has no cure, treatments are available to slow its progression and preserve vision. One of the treatment options for glaucoma is surgery.

Glaucoma surgery is typically reserved for cases where medication and/or laser therapy have not effectively controlled the disease. Glaucoma surgery aims to lower the pressure inside the eye, often the leading cause of optic nerve damage in glaucoma.

Several types of glaucoma surgery include trabeculectomy, tube shunt surgery, and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Trabeculectomy involves creating a small hole in the sclera (the white part of the eye) to allow fluid to drain out of the eye and lower the pressure. Tube shunt surgery involves implanting a small tube in the eye to drain excess liquid. MIGS procedures are less invasive than traditional glaucoma surgeries and can be performed with cataract surgery.

While glaucoma surgery can effectively lower eye pressure and slow the disease's progression, it carries risks, including infection, bleeding, and vision loss. It is essential for patients to discuss the risks and benefits of glaucoma surgery with their ophthalmologist to determine if it is the right treatment option for them.