Glaucoma surgery | Dr Samson Olori – Paediatric Surgeon Abuja, Nigeria

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve—the nerve that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. The damage is often linked to raised pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure, IOP) when the fluid (aqueous humour) does not drain properly. Over time, glaucoma can cause loss of peripheral vision, tunnel vision, and eventually blindness if untreated. It is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight” because there are often no early symptoms. Glaucoma is a significant cause of blindness; early detection and treatment can slow or halt its progression. People over 40, those with a family history, and people of African heritage are at higher risk.

Diagnosis and treatment options

Diagnosis is made with tests that measure eye pressure (tonometry), examine the optic nerve (ophthalmoscopy), check the visual field (perimetry), and assess the drainage angle (gonioscopy). Treatment aims to lower IOP. First-line treatment is usually medicated eye drops. When drops or laser are not enough, or when the disease is advanced, surgery may be recommended. Options include laser trabeculoplasty (to improve drainage), laser iridotomy (for angle-closure glaucoma), and conventional surgery such as trabeculectomy or drainage devices (shunts) to create a new drainage pathway. Glaucoma cannot be cured—damage already done cannot be reversed—but treatment can help preserve remaining vision.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is considered when eye pressure remains too high despite drops and laser, when the disease is progressing, or when the patient cannot use or tolerate drops. Your ophthalmologist will explain the risks and benefits and the best option for your type and stage of glaucoma. We can refer you to an ophthalmologist for assessment and treatment.

Recovery and follow-up

After laser treatment, you may have mild discomfort or blurred vision for a short time; you can usually go home the same day. After trabeculectomy or drainage device surgery, you will use eye drops for several weeks to help healing and prevent infection. Your ophthalmologist will check your eye pressure and the appearance of the eye regularly. It is important to attend all follow-up visits and to continue any remaining eye drops as prescribed. Glaucoma is a lifelong condition—treatment does not cure it but helps preserve your remaining vision. We can refer you to an ophthalmologist and support you with ongoing care.

Frequently asked questions

Can glaucoma be cured?
No. Glaucoma cannot be cured and vision lost to it cannot be restored. Treatment (drops, laser, or surgery) aims to lower pressure and slow or stop further damage.
What does glaucoma surgery involve?
Laser treatments are quick and often done in the clinic. Conventional surgery (e.g. trabeculectomy) creates a new channel for fluid to leave the eye. Your ophthalmologist will explain the procedure and recovery for your case.
Who is at higher risk of glaucoma?
People over 40, those with a family history, people of African descent, and people with diabetes or high blood pressure. Regular eye checks are important for early detection.
How often do I need check-ups after glaucoma surgery?
You will need regular follow-up to check eye pressure and the health of the optic nerve. Your ophthalmologist will give you a schedule; many people need visits every few months, especially in the first year.