Trab Surgery (Trabeculectomy)

Controlling Glaucoma Before It Controls Your Vision

Glaucoma is often called the silent thief of sight — and for good reason. It damages your vision slowly and painlessly, with no warning signs, until the harm becomes serious. When medications and laser treatment are no longer enough, Trabeculectomy offers a reliable and proven surgical solution. At RGC Eye Hospital, our specialist surgeons perform this procedure with precision and care.

What Is Trabeculectomy?

Trabeculectomy is a surgical procedure that creates a new drainage channel in the eye, allowing excess fluid to escape and reducing the pressure inside. High intraocular pressure is the main cause of optic nerve damage in glaucoma. By lowering that pressure, we help stop further vision loss and protect what you have left.

Who Needs This Surgery?

This procedure is recommended when glaucoma can no longer be controlled through other means:

• Eye drops or medications are not keeping your pressure under control
• Glaucoma is progressing despite ongoing treatment
• Significant optic nerve damage that needs urgent pressure relief
• Laser treatment that has not produced the results needed

What Happens During the Procedure?

Step 1 — Anaesthesia

Local anaesthesia completely numbs your eye. You will be awake and relaxed throughout — most patients find the experience far less daunting than they expected.

Step 2 — Creating the Drainage Flap

A small flap is carefully made in the white of the eye, forming a new pathway through which excess fluid can drain out safely.

Step 3 — Forming the Bleb

The fluid collects under the thin membrane covering the eye, forming a small controlled blister called a bleb. This bleb absorbs the fluid and keeps the pressure at a safe level.

Step 4 — Closing Up

The flap is sutured carefully into position. The procedure takes around 45 to 60 minutes and most patients go home the same day.

After Surgery

Some redness and mild discomfort are normal in the first few days. Vision may be temporarily blurred while the eye settles. Eye drops will be prescribed to prevent infection and manage inflammation. Regular follow-up appointments are essential in the weeks after surgery so our team can monitor your eye pressure and make any adjustments needed.

Why Patients Trust RGC Eye Hospital

• Specialist glaucoma surgeons with a strong track record of successful outcomes
• Precise surgical technique using modern instruments
• Close post-operative monitoring to ensure pressure stays well controlled
• A compassionate team who understand the fear that comes with vision loss