Glaucoma Surgery and Treatment in Oklahoma City

Understanding Glaucoma

Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often linked to increased intraocular pressure. As this pressure builds, it disrupts the transmission of visual information from the retina to the brain, leading to vision impairment. Without treatment, glaucoma can cause irreversible blindness, making early diagnosis crucial. At BVA in Oklahoma City, our experienced ophthalmologists specialize in diagnosing and managing glaucoma to help preserve your vision.

Causes of Glaucoma

While the exact cause of glaucoma is not fully understood, increased intraocular pressure is a significant risk factor. This occurs when aqueous humor—the fluid inside the front portion of the eye—fails to drain properly through the trabecular meshwork. The accumulation of this fluid raises eye pressure, which can damage the optic nerve over time. If left untreated, this damage can result in permanent vision loss.

Is Glaucoma Genetic?

Genetics play a role in glaucoma, particularly in cases of primary open-angle glaucoma. Individuals with a family history of glaucoma face a significantly higher risk of developing the condition. If multiple family members have been diagnosed, your likelihood of developing glaucoma increases four to nine times. Understanding this risk allows for proactive screening and early intervention.

Additional Glaucoma Risk Factors

Several other factors may increase the risk of glaucoma, including:

• Over 60 years old
• Black, Hispanic, or Asian descent
• Severe nearsightedness or farsightedness
• Prolonged use of steroid eye drops
• Previous eye injuries or surgeries
• Having thin corneas
• Types of Glaucoma

Glaucoma is generally classified into two main categories: open-angle and angle-closure glaucoma. Within these categories, specific types of glaucoma have unique characteristics and progress at different rates.

1. Open-Angle Glaucoma – The most common form, open-angle glaucoma, occurs when the drainage angle remains open, but fluid does not drain efficiently. This type progresses slowly and often presents no symptoms until significant optic nerve damage has occurred.
2. Angle-Closure Glaucoma – Also known as closed-angle or narrow-angle glaucoma, this form results from a blockage in the drainage angle, preventing proper fluid drainage. It can develop suddenly, causing severe symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

Glaucoma Treatment Options at BVA

Detecting glaucoma early is key to preventing vision loss. Since glaucoma is a lifelong condition, consistent management is necessary to control intraocular pressure and protect the optic nerve. Depending on the severity of your condition, our specialists may recommend one or a combination of the following treatments:

Laser Treatments – Procedures li ke laser trabeculoplasty and laser iridotomy improve fluid drainage and help reduce eye pressure. Another option, laser cyclophotocoagulation, decreases fluid production and is often used for advanced glaucoma cases.

Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) – A less invasive surgical approach desig ned to enhance drainage and lower intraocular pressure with minimal recovery time.

Tube-Shunt Surgery – This procedure  involves implanting a small drainage tube to help redirect excess fluid and maintain proper eye pressure.

Cyclophotocoagulation – A laser-based trea tment used to reduce the production of intraocular fluid, often recommended for advanced cases of glaucoma.

DURYSTA® – An FD A-approved, sustained-release implant that helps lower intraocular pressure in patients with open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.

Expert Glaucoma Care in Oklahoma City

At BVA, our team is dedicated to providing advanced glaucoma treatment tailored to each patient's needs. If you are at risk for glaucoma or experiencing vision changes, schedule an evaluation with our specialists in Oklahoma City. Early detection and intervention can make all the difference in preserving your sight.