Your Recovery
You had a trabeculectomy to treat glaucoma. Pressure in the eye can lead to vision problems. This type of surgery is one way to lower the pressure in the eye.
After surgery, your eye may be red and irritated. It may also water more than usual or swell a little. Even though your eye may be uncomfortable, it's important not to rub it. Rubbing your eye could damage it.
A dressing is worn over the eye during the first night after surgery. You'll wear an eye shield at bedtime for up to a month.
You will probably be able to return to work or your normal routine 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. In most cases, the new opening (bleb) in your eye will be covered by your upper eyelid and will not be visible.
For a few weeks, you may see your doctor several times a week to check how well fluid is draining out of your eye. Depending on the pressure in your eye, your doctor may cut the stitches around your bleb to change the flow of fluid.
Your eyes may be blurry for up to 6 weeks after surgery. As this goes away, your vision will probably be as good as it was before surgery. But you may need to change your glasses or contact lenses. Certain kinds of glasses and contacts may be better for your eye after this surgery.
If you need them, your doctor will recommend or prescribe pain medicines. The doctor will also give you eyedrops and may prescribe medicines to prevent the bleb from scarring.
This care sheet gives you a general idea about how long it will take for you to recover. But each person recovers at a different pace. Follow the steps below to get better as quickly as possible.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter D325 in the search box to learn more about "Trabeculectomy: What to Expect at Home".