Glaucoma surgery is a common intervention designed to manage intraocular pressure and preserve vision in individuals with glaucoma. Understanding the recovery process following such a procedure can help alleviate concerns and promote a smoother healing journey. This article outlines what to expect immediately after surgery, during recovery, and for long-term eye health.
Immediate Post-Surgical Experience
After glaucoma surgery, certain sensations are common in the operated eye. Blurry vision is typical and can last for a few days to several weeks. Patients may also feel mild discomfort, irritation, or a sandy sensation, as if something is in the eye. Redness and some swelling of the eyelid are also common during this initial period.
A protective eye patch or shield is usually placed over the operated eye after surgery and may be worn overnight. This shield helps to protect the eye from accidental rubbing or injury while healing. Initial instructions from the surgical team typically include avoiding rubbing or pressing on the eye.
Navigating Your Recovery Journey
Recovery after glaucoma surgery varies; significant healing occurs in the first few days to weeks, with full recovery often taking a month or more. Vision may fluctuate during this time and gradually improve. Blurry vision can persist for up to six weeks.
Adhering to prescribed eye drops is a key part of recovery. These typically include antibiotic drops to prevent infection and anti-inflammatory steroid drops to reduce swelling and inflammation. Antibiotic drops are often used for about two weeks, while steroid drops may be needed for several months, sometimes up to three months, to help prevent scarring. It is important to wash hands before applying drops and to avoid touching the eye surface with the bottle tip.
Activity restrictions are advised to promote healing and prevent complications. Patients should avoid heavy lifting (over 10-15 pounds), bending over at the waist, or any strenuous activities that might increase eye pressure for at least a week, and sometimes longer. Swimming, using hot tubs, or wearing eye makeup should also be avoided for at least a month due to the risk of infection. Your surgeon will schedule regular follow-up appointments, often starting the day after surgery, and then spaced out over weeks to months, to monitor eye pressure and healing progress.
Identifying Signs Requiring Medical Attention
While some discomfort and vision changes are normal, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Sudden severe pain in the eye that is not relieved by over-the-counter medication is a concerning sign. Significant vision loss or a rapid worsening of vision should also be reported promptly.
Signs of infection include worsening redness in the eye, pus or thick discharge, and extreme light sensitivity. Flashes of light or new, increased floaters in your vision could indicate other complications and require assessment. It is important to contact your ophthalmologist immediately if any of these symptoms occur, as early intervention can prevent more serious issues.
Sustaining Eye Health Post-Surgery
Glaucoma surgery aims to lower eye pressure and prevent further vision loss; it is a management tool, not a cure. The surgery does not restore vision already lost due to glaucoma. Ongoing monitoring of eye pressure is essential to maintain the benefits of the surgery.
Regular eye exams with your ophthalmologist are important for long-term management. Adherence to any long-term medication, including eye drops, may still be necessary to keep eye pressure at a safe level. General eye care practices, such as wearing protective eyewear when appropriate and avoiding activities that could harm the eye, contribute to preserving vision and overall eye health.