Tube Shunt Surgery Week 1: What to Expect

Week one is usually the most uncomfortable week. The eye is red, waters a lot, and feels scratchy from the surface stitches, and there is often a deeper ache under the upper outer eyelid where the plate sits. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says blurry vision after a glaucoma drainage implant lasts several days to a few weeks, so poor vision this week is expected.

Drops start right away. EyeWiki describes a topical antibiotic and steroid started four times daily and continued for 4 to 6 weeks. Which of your old glaucoma drops you keep depends on the device. EyeWiki notes that with a valved implant the preoperative glaucoma medications are discontinued, while with a non valved implant they are continued until the capsule forms around the plate. Follow the exact list your surgeon gave you and do not assume all your old drops are finished.

You should have follow up in this window. The American Academy of Ophthalmology says you will need follow up appointments a few times in the weeks after surgery. That is generally less frequent than the near weekly schedule after a trabeculectomy, which the American Academy of Ophthalmology describes as a less burdensome postoperative care regimen.