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Private eye surgery to treat glaucoma and prevent vision loss
Deep sclerectomy is a popular alternative to traditional glaucoma surgery and is a safe and effective way to lower eye pressure and prevent vision loss. We perform the procedure under local anaesthetic and typically takes only 30 to 45 minutes to complete. At Circle Health Group, our highly skilled consultant ophthalmologists specialise in eye surgery such as deep sclerectomy and use the latest techniques to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients.
Want to learn more about deep sclerectomy and how it can benefit you? Book a consultation with one of our specialist consultants today to see if this private eye surgery is right for you. Call us or book online today and you could have your initial consultation within 48 hours.
Glaucoma is a common condition that can lead to a deep sclerectomy. The symptoms of glaucoma are often subtle, and many people do not experience any symptoms in the early stages of the condition. Some common symptoms of glaucoma include:
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent vision loss and protect your eyesight.
In addition to the common symptoms of glaucoma, certain other symptoms can indicate that a deep sclerectomy may be necessary. These include:
Your specialist consultant at Circle Health Group can help determine if a deep sclerectomy is necessary and develop a treatment plan to protect your vision.
Glaucoma is when pressure builds up in your eye, causing damage to your optic nerve. A deep sclerectomy can effectively reduce the pressure within the eye, reducing the risk of further damage to the optic nerve. Additionally, this procedure can also help to slow down the progression of the condition, which can help to preserve vision in the long term.
Other eye conditions that can be treated with a deep sclerectomy include cataracts, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment.
Our specialist ophthalmology team will start by asking you about your symptoms and medical history. They will then examine your eyes and use special tests to evaluate your eye pressure, vision, and overall eye health. Based on these results, our consultants will be able to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and make a diagnosis.
In some cases, further tests or scans may be needed to confirm a diagnosis or to gather more information about your eye health. Our consultants will advise you if this is the case, and if so, they will explain what the tests or scans involve and what you can expect.
Once we have gathered all the information we need, our team of specialist consultants will work together to determine the best treatment plan for you. They will take into account all relevant factors, including your overall health, medical history, and lifestyle, and discuss the different treatment options available to you.
If your consultant determines that a deep sclerectomy is the best course of action for you, they will explain why and answer any questions you may have about the procedure. They will also discuss the risks, benefits, and what you can expect during and after the procedure.
Your consultant's goal is to make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision about your eye health.
If you suspect you may need a deep sclerectomy, book your consultation today. Our team of specialist consultants will provide you with the expertise and support you need to make an informed decision about your eye health.
Prior to your deep sclerectomy, it's a good idea to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This may include making changes to your diet, increasing your physical activity, and avoiding alcohol or other substances that may interfere with the healing process. Your surgeon may also recommend that you stop smoking to help improve your overall health and to encourage your recovery.
To help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery after your deep sclerectomy, you may need to make some preparations at home. This may include arranging for someone to help you with household tasks and transportation for the first few weeks after the procedure. It's also a good idea to have all the supplies and equipment you'll need for your recovery, such as pain medication, ice packs, and a comfortable place to rest.
At Circle Health Group, our goal is to ensure that your deep sclerectomy experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible. We'll provide you with all the information and support you need to prepare for the procedure and make a full recovery. Contact us today to book your consultation and get started on your journey to better vision.
Yes, there are different types of deep sclerectomy, including penetrating and non-penetrating deep sclerectomy. Your private consultant will be able to discuss the best option for you based on your individual needs and health.
The length of time a deep sclerectomy takes can vary depending on the individual case, but the procedure typically takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
During a deep sclerectomy, local anaesthesia or topical anaesthesia is typically used to numb the eye and surrounding area. Your private consultant ophthalmologist will discuss the best option for you based on your individual needs and health.
During the deep sclerectomy procedure, your private consultant will make a small incision in your eye to create a new drainage channel to relieve pressure caused by fluid buildup. The exact details of the procedure will likely be different for everyone, but your surgeon will let you know ahead of time exactly what to expect.
We consider a deep sclerectomy procedure a minor surgery, and typically the recovery timeline is relatively short. Most people report feeling back to normal within a few weeks, although the specific timeline will depend on the individual and their unique circumstances.
Typically, a deep sclerectomy is performed as an outpatient procedure, so you will not need to spend any nights in the hospital. However, the length of your recovery will depend on the individual and the specific circumstances of their procedure.
It is most likely that you won't be able to drive yourself home, so be sure to arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure. If you prefer, we can arrange a taxi for you.
Again, this will depend on the individual and their specific circumstances. Some people may be able to return to work within a few days, while others may need to take a week or two off. Your doctor will be able to provide you with more specific information about when it is safe for you to return to work.
Typically, people can start driving again within a few days of their deep sclerectomy procedure. However, it is important to listen to your doctor's instructions and not drive if you feel unwell or unsteady.
Most people report feeling back to normal within a few weeks of their deep sclerectomy operation. However, the specific timeline will depend on the individual and their unique circumstances. It is important to listen to your doctor's instructions and follow a healthy lifestyle to support a smooth and speedy recovery.
Risks specific to deep sclerectomy include leakage of fluid from the eye, formation of a cataract, and problems with the drainage device that was placed in the eye. These are in addition to the general risks of surgery such as bleeding and infection.
It's important to be informed about the potential risks and complications before undergoing a deep sclerectomy operation. That's why at Circle Health Group, our experienced consultants will take the time to explain everything to you and answer any questions you may have. With a complete understanding of the potential risks and complications, you can make an informed decision about whether deep sclerectomy is right for you.
If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to our team of experienced consultants.
There are rare cases where a person may need to have a second deep sclerectomy procedure, but it is generally considered a permanent solution for glaucoma.
The length of time that you need to use chloramphenicol eye drops after a deep sclerectomy will depend on the specific recommendations of your doctor. Generally, these drops are used to help prevent infection and reduce inflammation in the eye after surgery. Your doctor will provide specific instructions regarding the frequency and duration of use.
The timeline for vision stabilisation after a deep sclerectomy can vary depending on a number of factors such as the severity of the glaucoma, your age, and the presence of other health conditions. On average, it can take several weeks to several months for vision to stabilise after the procedure. Your doctor will provide you with a more specific timeline based on your individual case.
The cost of a deep sclerectomy procedure can vary depending on several factors such as the location of the surgery, the experience of the surgeon, and the complexity of the case. In general, a deep sclerectomy is considered a relatively affordable treatment option for glaucoma. Your doctor or insurance provider can provide you with a more specific estimate based on your individual case. You can also give us a call and one of our advisors will arrange a personalised quote.
If you would like to learn more about this procedure, book your appointment online or call a member of our team directly.
Content reviewed by Circle in-house team in February 2023. Next review due February 2026.