Combining Precision and Care for Better Vision Outcomes
Living with both cataracts and glaucoma can be a complex challenge, not only does your vision become clouded, but managing eye pressure adds an extra layer of concern. If you’re facing both conditions, it’s natural to have questions about your treatment path. The good news? In many cases, both cataracts and glaucoma can be addressed with a combined surgical approach that aims to improve vision and manage eye pressure at the same time.
At London Eye & Retina, our team is experienced in tailoring cataract and glaucoma treatments to each patient’s needs. Whether you’ve been managing glaucoma for years or recently diagnosed alongside cataracts, we’re here to guide you through the journey with clarity and confidence.
Understanding the Conditions
Cataracts are the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, often related to ageing. They reduce the eye’s ability to focus, causing blurry vision, glare, and faded colours.
Glaucoma, on the other hand, is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, usually due to elevated eye pressure. Left untreated, it can lead to irreversible vision loss.
When both are present, the treatment strategy needs to carefully balance visual improvement with ongoing glaucoma control.
Why Combine Cataract and Glaucoma Surgery?
Combining both surgeries can:
- Reduce the need for multiple procedures
- Lower dependence on glaucoma medications
- Improve overall visual outcomes
- Help stabilise eye pressure more effectively
This is especially helpful for patients already requiring surgery for either condition. The combined procedure is often recommended when eye pressure is not fully controlled with medication or if the cataract is affecting daily life.
Types of Glaucoma Surgery with Cataract Removal
Depending on your eye health and glaucoma type, the surgeon may recommend one of the following alongside cataract surgery:
- Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS): Uses tiny devices to improve fluid drainage with minimal disruption
- Trabeculectomy: Creates a new drainage pathway to lower eye pressure
- Glaucoma drainage implants: Tiny devices placed to continuously drain fluid from the eye
Each method has specific indications, and your ophthalmologist will advise based on your pressure control needs and eye structure.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
Combined surgery is typically performed as a day procedure under local anaesthesia. The cataract is removed, and a glaucoma technique is performed in the same session. Most people can return home the same day and resume light activities within a few days.
Follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and ensure eye pressure remains within the target range. Some patients may still require eye drops, but often fewer than before.
Is This the Right Option for You?
Not everyone with both conditions needs combined surgery, but it may be beneficial if:
- You need cataract surgery and have moderate-to-severe glaucoma
- Eye pressure is not well controlled with drops alone
- You want to reduce the number of medications used daily
Talk to Us About Your Vision Goals
At London Eye & Retina, we believe in a personalised approach. We take time to explain your options, including lens choices and glaucoma treatments, and ensure your care plan aligns with your long-term visual needs.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. James Ng at London Eye & Retina and explore your options for clearer, sharper sight.
Let us help you protect and restore your vision together.
