The purpose of treatment is to prevent further loss of vision. Loss of vision in glaucoma is irreversible. Bringing the pressure under control will not restore lost vision, but it is the key to preventing further loss of vision. Considerable advances in glaucoma surgery have occurred in recent years. The type of surgery depends on the type of glaucoma.
Laser surgery focuses a tiny beam of light on a spot in the eye.
People see only a bright flash of light and feel faint tingling. The laser beam passes harmlessly through the outer eye and cuts only where it is focused. Other surgical treatments are performed with a microscope. Unlike laser treatment, microsurgery must be done in a hospital or surgery center and requires recuperation time. For more information, contact your local Colorado State University Cooperative Extension office .