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There are two main surgical treatments for glaucoma – laser surgery and filtration surgery and while both can be successful, both surgeries also come with potential serious complications.

In laser surgery, called laser trabeculoplasty, a laser burns tiny holes in the drainage area and forms a scar, resulting in increased drainage of fluid from the eye. The procedure is short, includes little discomfort, and generally has few complications. But the laser surgery oftentimes is not a complete cure, and patients need to continue their use of medications and eye drops following the procedure.

Complications: In about 35% of patients, there is an actual increase in fluid pressure in the eye following laser surgery. While this typically subsides, in some cases it is permanent and leads to vision loss. Laser surgery can also cause complications that cause the iris to stick to the cornea.

In filtration surgery, called a Trabeculectomy, a flap is made in the eyeball to create passage for fluid to drain out. The surgery may include removal or part of the iris though this is not required. A small bleb or bubble generally forms near the opening in the eye, which is a sign that fluid is draining out.

Complications: While this procedure is normally highly effective, there are common complications associated with it. Blebs, especially thin ones created by mediocre surgery, commonly leak and put patients at risk of infection of the eye, bleeding, flattening of the eye, and dangerous inflammation. Filtration surgery may also cause significant scarring that blocks up drainage in the eye and leads to increased pressure again. Complications or problems from either leaking blebs or scarring can require additional surgical intervention, a great deal of pain, and eventually loss of eyesight.