Comprehensive Guide to Glaucoma Surgery in Singapore

Glaucoma is a progressive eye disease that damages the optic nerve, frequently linked to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible vision loss. While eye drops and laser surgery are often the first lines of management, surgical intervention becomes necessary when these measures fail to adequately control IOP.

Key risk factors include:

Glaucoma often develops without noticeable symptoms in the early stages. As the disease progresses, patients may experience:

Diagnosis is confirmed through a comprehensive eye examination, which may include:

The main types include:

Eye surgery for glaucoma is typically indicated when intraocular pressure (IOP) remains uncontrolled despite maximum medical and laser treatment. The primary goal of surgery is to lower IOP and prevent further optic nerve damage.

Glaucoma surgery may be indicated in cases where pharmacological and laser treatments are insufficient, visual field loss is worsening, or there is clear evidence of structural deterioration of the optic nerve. Early surgical consideration is often warranted to prevent irreversible visual impairment, particularly in moderate to advanced stages of the disease.

Several types of glaucoma surgery are available in Singapore. The most suitable option is determined by factors including your glaucoma's type and severity, optic nerve damage, previous treatments, and overall eye health.

Trabeculectomy is considered the gold standard for surgical glaucoma management. It involves creating a small drainage flap in the sclera to allow aqueous fluid to bypass the eye’s natural drainage pathways. This technique is highly effective in lowering IOP, especially in moderate to advanced cases.

Glaucoma drainage implant surgery, also known as aqueous shunt surgery, involves inserting a small silicone device with a tube that directs fluid from the eye into a reservoir beneath the conjunctiva to lower intraocular pressure. It is often recommended for complex or refractory glaucoma cases, especially in patients with prior eye surgeries, and may be combined with cataract surgery if needed.

Glaucoma drainage implant surgery is typically performed as a day procedure under local anaesthesia with mild sedation.

Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) encompasses a range of newer procedures designed to lower IOP with fewer complications and faster recovery times. This procedure is usually recommended for patients with mild to moderate open-angle glaucoma, and is often combined with cataract surgery.

Laser Surgery is often the first-line surgical intervention for open-angle glaucoma. A common type is selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), which uses low-energy laser pulses to improve fluid drainage through the trabecular meshwork. SLT is minimally invasive and often performed in the clinic.

The key to achieving the best outcome in glaucoma surgery lies in accurate diagnosis and personalised planning. At Eye & Glaucoma Surgeons, each patient undergoes a thorough clinical evaluation to determine the most suitable surgical strategy. We consider factors like glaucoma type, optic nerve damage, disease progression rate, anatomical variations, and any previous ocular surgeries to tailor an evidence-based treatment plan.

Following glaucoma surgery, patients will require close monitoring through scheduled ophthalmology reviews to assess healing, inflammation, and IOP control. Medication may be tapered or adjusted, and vision may take several weeks to stabilise. Our team will provide structured follow-up to ensure safe recovery and optimal long-term outcomes.

Led by experienced ophthalmologists, including Dr Daniel Su Hsien Wen, our team specialises in managing all glaucoma cases, from early to complex. Every surgical recommendation is based on a comprehensive evaluation, precisely tailored to your diagnosis, ensuring safety from treatment through recovery.

Our clinic features advanced imaging and surgical technology, supported by a dedicated team for seamless care. You will receive a tailored treatment plan, including MIGS and conventional options, with continuous follow-up to preserve your vision long-term. Schedule a consultation with our glaucoma specialist today.

Glaucoma surgery is generally not painful, as it is performed under local or general anaesthesia for patient comfort. While mild discomfort, a gritty sensation, or temporary eye irritation might occur post-operatively, these symptoms are typically manageable with prescribed medications. Patients are closely monitored to address any complications promptly.

No. The initial management of glaucoma often includes medicated eye drops and oral medications. However, when these methods fail to adequately control IOP or are not tolerated, surgery becomes necessary to prevent further optic nerve damage.

The recovery timeline varies depending on the type of glaucoma surgery performed and the nature of the patient’s occupation. For laser procedures such as selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), patients may resume light activities within a few days. However, more invasive procedures like trabeculectomy or glaucoma drainage implant surgery may require a recovery period of two to four weeks before returning to work. Your ophthalmologist will provide individualised guidance based on your healing progress.

While glaucoma surgery aims to lower intraocular pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage, it does not cure the underlying condition. There remains a possibility that intraocular pressure may rise again over time, necessitating additional treatment or repeat procedures. Lifelong monitoring is essential, and patients should continue attending scheduled follow-ups to ensure optimal long-term control of the disease.

The cost of glaucoma surgery in Singapore depends on several factors, including the type of procedure, disease severity, and whether the treatment is performed in a public or private setting. Fees may also vary based on the surgeon’s experience and the surgical method used, such as trabeculectomy, drainage implants, or minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS). Other costs may include pre-operative assessments, imaging, medication, and post-operative care. The choice of implant or drainage device can also influence overall expenses.

Yes. Glaucoma surgery is MediSave-claimable under the Ministry of Health (MOH) guidelines, subject to withdrawal limits. Patients with integrated shield plans or private insurance may also be eligible for partial or full reimbursement. It is important to check with your healthcare provider and insurer for exact coverage details.