Advanced Solutions for Glaucoma Management

Glaucoma is a serious condition that can silently steal your vision if left untreated. If you’ve been diagnosed with glaucoma or are at risk, surgical intervention may be necessary to reduce intraocular pressure and protect your sight. If you’re seeking an expert eye surgeon in Raleigh or Oxford, NC, New Century Ophthalmology specializes in advanced glaucoma surgeries, offering cutting-edge techniques designed to preserve your vision and prevent further damage.

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Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma, often called “the thief of sight,” is a condition that damages the optic nerve and leads to gradual vision loss. This damage is typically caused by increased pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure) due to poor fluid drainage. If left untreated, glaucoma can result in permanent blindness.

There are many types of glaucoma, including open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma progresses slowly and is often asymptomatic in its early stages, while angle-closure glaucoma can occur suddenly and requires immediate medical attention. Because glaucoma cannot be cured, early detection and treatment are essential to slowing its progression and preserving vision.

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What Is Glaucoma Surgery?

Glaucoma surgery is designed to lower intraocular pressure by improving fluid drainage from the eye or reducing fluid production. Glaucoma surgery not only protects your optic nerve but also helps preserve your vision, ensuring you can continue to enjoy life’s moments with clarity and confidence. At New Century Ophthalmology, we offer advanced surgical options tailored to your specific needs, including the following:

  • Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): This gentle procedure creates new pathways for fluid drainage with minimal disruption to surrounding tissues. For a streamlined approach, MIGS is often performed alongside cataract surgery.
  • Laser Surgery: Techniques like trabeculoplasty or iridotomy use precise laser energy to improve fluid outflow or relieve pressure buildup.
  • Traditional Glaucoma Surgery: For advanced cases, procedures like trabeculectomy or shunt implantation may be recommended to lower eye pressure effectively.

The Benefits of Glaucoma Surgery

For individuals managing glaucoma, surgery offers a powerful solution to protect vision and prevent further damage to the optic nerve. By addressing elevated intraocular pressure, glaucoma surgery in Raleigh & Oxford, NC, can reduce the risk of irreversible vision loss and improve your overall quality of life.

  • Protects the Optic Nerve: Surgery effectively lowers intraocular pressure, preventing further damage to the optic nerve and preserving vision.
  • Minimally Invasive Options: Advanced techniques like MIGS offer a gentle approach to treatment with shorter recovery times and fewer complications.
  • Reduces Reliance on Medications: Many patients experience a significant reduction in their need for daily glaucoma medications after surgery.
  • Tailored to Your Needs: With options ranging from laser therapy to traditional procedures, treatment is customized to suit your specific type and severity of glaucoma.
  • Long-Term Results: Glaucoma surgery provides lasting relief by improving fluid drainage and reducing eye pressure, ensuring better management of the condition.

Is Glaucoma Surgery Right for Me?

Do you have glaucoma that isn’t well-controlled with medications or laser treatments? Are you concerned about the progression of vision loss despite your current treatment plan? If so, glaucoma surgery may be the next step in your care. Candidates for glaucoma surgery often include individuals who:

  • Have been diagnosed with glaucoma and experience elevated intraocular pressure despite using medications.
  • Want to reduce their reliance on daily eye drops or other medications.
  • Have early signs of optic nerve damage or are at risk for vision loss due to worsening pressure.
  • Are managing both glaucoma and cataracts, making a combined procedure like MIGS an ideal solution.

If you’re unsure whether glaucoma surgery is right for you, schedule a consultation at New Century Ophthalmology. Our experienced team will evaluate your condition, discuss your options, and guide you toward the best treatment plan to protect your vision and quality of life.

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What to Expect: The Glaucoma Surgery Process

  1. Consultation: During your initial visit, our team will evaluate your eye health, measure intraocular pressure, and determine the severity of your glaucoma. We’ll also discuss the type of surgery best suited for your needs, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) or traditional techniques.
  2. Pre-Surgery Preparation: Before surgery, you’ll receive specific instructions about medications, dietary restrictions, and arranging transportation. A pre-operative visit may include additional imaging or diagnostic tests.
  3. Procedure Day: Glaucoma surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. After administering numbing drops and sedation, your surgeon will use advanced techniques to improve fluid drainage and lower eye pressure. MIGS procedures involve tiny incisions and devices for minimal disruption.
  4. Post-Surgery Monitoring: Following surgery, you’ll rest briefly at our facility before going home. We’ll provide protective eyewear and instructions for using prescribed medications to aid healing.
  5. Follow-Up Care: A follow-up appointment will be scheduled within 24-48 hours to monitor your recovery and ensure the procedure was successful.

After Your Glaucoma Surgery: Recovery & Results

Recovery from glaucoma surgery is generally smooth and depends on the type of procedure performed. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and can return to their normal activities within a few days to weeks. In the initial healing period, mild redness, irritation, or blurred vision are common, but these symptoms typically resolve quickly as the eyes recover.

While glaucoma surgery doesn’t restore vision lost to optic nerve damage, it is highly effective at reducing intraocular pressure and preventing further deterioration of sight. You may notice improved eye comfort and stable vision shortly after the procedure. It’s important to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and rubbing your eyes in order to protect your eyes during recovery.

Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to the recovery process. These visits allow your doctor to monitor intraocular pressure, ensure the procedure’s success, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. With ongoing care and monitoring, glaucoma surgery provides long-term benefits, preserving your vision and improving your quality of life.

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Why Choose New Century Ophthalmology?

At New Century Ophthalmology, we offer unmatched expertise in glaucoma care. We combine advanced surgical techniques with a compassionate, patient-centered approach. Our team is well-versed in the latest innovations, including minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), to provide effective solutions tailored to your unique needs.

With a focus on preserving your vision and preventing further damage, we take the time to explain your options and ensure you feel confident in your care plan. From diagnosis to post-operative care, our practice is committed to helping you maintain your quality of life with clear, comprehensive support.

High-quality eye care shouldn’t come with barriers. New Century Ophthalmology offers affordable services to make sure everyone has access to quality care. Are you ready to take control of your eye health? Schedule your consultation for glaucoma surgery in Raleigh & Oxford, NC, with New Century Ophthalmology today.

Glaucoma Surgery FAQ

What is eye disease management?

Eye disease management involves diagnosing, monitoring, and treating various eye conditions to prevent progression and preserve vision.

How are eye diseases diagnosed?

Eye diseases are typically diagnosed during comprehensive eye exams, which use advanced imaging and diagnostic tools. These exams can detect early signs of conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy.

What treatments are available for eye diseases?

Treatment options vary depending on the condition and its severity. They may include medications, laser therapy, surgical interventions, or lifestyle adjustments.

Can eye diseases be prevented?

While not all eye diseases can be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, protecting your eyes from UV light, and scheduling regular eye exams can reduce your risk.

Why are regular eye exams important for managing eye diseases?

Many eye diseases develop without noticeable symptoms, making regular exams crucial for early detection and timely intervention to prevent vision loss.

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