Glaucoma Surgery

Protecting Your Vision for the Long Term: Glaucoma Surgery at Columbus Regional

Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because it can slowly damage your vision—often without noticeable symptoms until it’s advanced. While medications and laser treatments are usually the first line of defense, sometimes surgery is the best step to preserve your sight.

At Columbus Regional Healthcare System, our Ophthalmology Program offers advanced glaucoma surgery options tailored to your specific type and stage of disease. Our goal is simple: to lower your eye pressure safely and effectively, and protect your vision for years to come.

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What Is Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, usually due to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). Over time, high pressure in the eye can lead to permanent vision loss—often starting with peripheral vision.

Common types include:

• Open-angle glaucoma (most common)
• Angle-closure glaucoma
• Normal-tension glaucoma
• Congenital or secondary glaucoma

Treatment is focused on lowering IOP to prevent further damage.

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When Is Surgery Needed?

Surgery is typically considered when:

• Eye drops and oral medications are no longer controlling your pressure
• Laser therapy hasn’t worked or isn’t appropriate
• You are experiencing progressive vision loss despite other treatments
• You’re having difficulty managing complex or multiple medications

Our ophthalmologists will work closely with you to decide if surgery is the right next step.

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Types of Glaucoma Surgery We Offer

We provide both traditional and minimally invasive options, depending on your needs:

🔹 Trabeculectomy

A small drainage flap is created to allow fluid to exit the eye, lowering pressure. One of the most common and effective surgeries for moderate to severe glaucoma.

🔹 Glaucoma Drainage Devices (Shunts or Tubes)

Tiny tubes implanted in the eye help drain fluid and lower pressure—often used for more advanced or complex glaucoma cases.

🔹 Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)

Includes procedures like goniotomy, iStent, and Hydrus Microstent. These are typically combined with cataract surgery and offer faster recovery with fewer risks.

🔹 Laser Cyclophotocoagulation

Used to reduce fluid production in severe or refractory glaucoma.

Each approach is designed to reduce eye pressure safely and with long-term results.

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What to Expect

Glaucoma surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Most patients experience:

• Little to no pain
• Improved pressure control
• A reduced need for eye drops or medications
• Close follow-up care to monitor healing and vision

Recovery times vary based on the procedure, but most people return to normal activities within a few weeks.

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Why Choose Columbus Regional?

• Board-certified ophthalmologists experienced in glaucoma care
• Access to advanced surgical technologies and MIGS techniques
• A personalized approach based on your disease severity and lifestyle
• On-site diagnostic testing and imaging for early detection and monitoring
• Compassionate care team dedicated to your lifelong eye health

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Preserve Your Vision, Protect Your Independence

Glaucoma may be silent—but that doesn’t mean it’s untreatable. With the right care and, when needed, surgical intervention, you can protect your vision and your way of life.

Schedule a consultation with the Ophthalmology Program at Columbus Regional Healthcare System today to explore your glaucoma surgery options and take control of your eye health.

Because your sight is worth fighting for—and we’re here to fight with you.