Template only — not medical advice. Always review with a licensed healthcare professional before distributing.
Want to customize this handout for your clinic?
Sign in free to edit, add your clinic branding, and save your own version.
After Trabeculectomy Glaucoma Surgery: Healing Instructions and Care Guide
Summary
If you've recently undergone a trabeculectomy, this guide will help you care for your eye as it heals. This procedure is done to lower the pressure inside your eye, which is important for managing glaucoma. Following these instructions will support your recovery and help ensure the surgery's success.
What Is This & Why It Matters
A trabeculectomy is a surgical procedure designed to create a new drainage pathway for fluid in the eye, helping reduce intraocular pressure. Lowering this pressure is crucial in treating glaucoma, a condition that can damage the optic nerve and lead to vision loss. Your eye will need time to heal after this surgery, so it's important to follow these guidelines closely.
What You Should Do
- Use any prescribed eye drops exactly as directed by your doctor. They help prevent infection and control inflammation.
- Wear an eye shield or patch while sleeping for protection, especially during the first week.
- Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments. Your doctor will monitor your healing progress closely.
- Keep your head elevated when resting or sleeping to reduce pressure in your eye.
- Avoid rubbing or touching your eye to prevent irritation or infection.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before applying any medications or touching the area around your eye.
- Limit screen time and avoid activities that strain your eyes, like reading small print, for at least a few days.
- Gently clean the area around your eye with a damp cloth if needed, avoiding direct contact with the eye itself.
What You Should NOT Do
- Do not drive until your doctor gives you the go-ahead. Vision may be temporarily affected post-surgery.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least two weeks to prevent increased pressure in your eye.
- Refrain from swimming or using hot tubs to reduce the risk of infection until cleared by your doctor.
- Do not wear contact lenses until given permission by your healthcare provider.
- Avoid bending over frequently, as this can increase eye pressure.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Mild pain or discomfort in the operated eye.
- Blurred vision that gradually improves over time.
- The presence of a bleb, a small bubble under the eyelid where fluid drains out.
- Slight redness around the surgical site.
Call Your Doctor If...
- Sudden increase in pain or severe headache around the operated eye.
- Noticeable drop in vision quality or complete loss of sight in the operated eye.
- Signs of infection such as pus discharge, increased redness, or swelling around the eye.
- Unusual fluid leakage from the operated site that doesn't stop.
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C) accompanying other symptoms.
- Feeling of increased pressure inside the eye.
FAQ
When can I resume my normal activities?
Most people can return to light activities after about two weeks. Follow your doctor's advice for specific guidelines.
Will I need to use any special medications?
Yes, you'll likely be prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops to use during recovery.
Is it normal for my vision to be blurry?
Yes, blurred vision is common right after surgery but should improve gradually.
How long will I need to wear an eye patch?
Typically, you'll wear it while sleeping for at least one week unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Can I fly shortly after my surgery?
It's best to avoid flying until you have clearance from your doctor, usually after a few weeks.
Will I still need glaucoma medication after surgery?
Some patients may still require medication post-surgery. Your doctor will provide guidance based on your needs.