Glaucoma Treatment in Canberra
Protect Your Vision with Early Diagnosis Advanced Glaucoma Care from
an Experienced Canberra Ophthalmologist
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve — the part of the eye that sends visual information to the brain. This damage is often caused by increased pressure inside the eye, though it can also occur when eye pressure is within the normal range.
Glaucoma is often called the “silent thief of sight” because in most cases, there are no early warning signs. Vision loss usually begins with peripheral (side) vision and can go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred. This is why regular eye examinations are so important — especially if you have risk factors.
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Australia. With early diagnosis and proper treatment, most people with glaucoma can protect their vision and maintain a good quality of life.
Important: Vision lost from glaucoma cannot be restored. Treatment focuses on preventing further damage — which is why early detection and consistent management are so essential.
Symptoms of Glaucoma
Most people with glaucoma have no symptoms in the early stages. By the time changes in vision are noticed, significant and permanent damage may have already occurred.
Common Symptoms
When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Gradual loss of peripheral (side) vision — often unnoticed until advanced
- Tunnel vision in late-stage disease
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Halos around lights, especially at night
- Headache or brow ache (in angle-closure glaucoma)
- Sudden severe eye pain and redness (acute attack)
- Nausea and vomiting (during an acute angle-closure attack)
- Rapid, sudden vision loss — medical emergency
When to See an Eye Specialist at Clarity Eye Surgeons?
Seek urgent assessment if you experience sudden eye pain, sudden vision loss, or halos around lights — these may indicate an acute angle-closure attack, which is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
If your GP or optometrist has identified elevated eye pressure, optic nerve changes, or visual field loss during a routine check, ask them to refer you to Clarity Eye Surgeons for specialist assessment.
Causes & Risk Factors
Glaucoma most commonly develops when fluid builds up inside the eye, increasing pressure and damaging the optic nerve. In some cases, damage occurs even when eye pressure is within the normal range.
Main Causes
- High intraocular pressure (IOP) — fluid cannot drain properly from the eye
- Blocked or narrow drainage angle — prevents fluid from leaving the eye
- Optic nerve sensitivity — damage occurs despite normal pressure
- Secondary causes — trauma, inflammation, steroids, or other eye conditions
- Genetic factors — inherited structural differences in the drainage system
Risk Factors
- Family history of glaucoma — especially a parent or sibling
- Age over 60 — risk increases significantly with age
- Elevated intraocular pressure — (ocular hypertension)
- High myopia (short-sightedness)
- Diabetes or high blood pressure
- Previous eye injury or surgery
- Long-term corticosteroid use
- Thin central cornea
How is Glaucoma Diagnosed?
Glaucoma is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination using a combination of the following tests to assess the health of your optic nerve and measure eye pressure:
Tonometry
Measures the pressure inside your eye (intraocular pressure). Elevated IOP is one of the main risk factors for glaucoma.
Visual Field Test
Checks peripheral vision for blind spots — a key indicator of glaucoma nerve damage.
OCT Scan
Creates a detailed image of the optic nerve and retinal nerve fibre layer for precise, early detection. Uses the Zeiss Cirrus 6000 OCT.
Optic Nerve Examination
A dilated eye examination to inspect the optic nerve directly for signs of damage, cupping, or structural changes.
Early detection is critical. Many patients are diagnosed during a routine eye check with no prior symptoms. Regular comprehensive eye examinations are the most effective way to catch glaucoma before irreversible vision loss occurs.
Glaucoma Treatment Options
Glaucoma cannot be cured, but it can be effectively managed to protect your remaining vision. Your treatment plan will be personalised based on your glaucoma type, severity, and individual circumstances.
Eye drops are usually the first line of treatment. They work by reducing the amount of fluid produced in the eye or improving drainage to lower eye pressure. Common types include:
- Prostaglandin Analogues (e.g., latanoprost, bimatoprost) — most effective class; improve fluid outflow; used once daily at night
- Beta-Blockers (e.g., timolol) — reduce fluid production; used twice daily; caution in asthma or heart conditions
- Alpha-Agonists (e.g., brimonidine) — reduce fluid production and improve drainage
- Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors (e.g., brimonidine) — reduce fluid production and improve drainage
Consistent daily use is essential. If you are having difficulty with your drops, speak with our team — they can demonstrate the correct instillation technique.
Laser therapy can be used when eye drops are insufficient, or as a first-line alternative. Common procedures include:
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
Improves drainage through the eye’s natural channels. Highly effective, minimally invasive, and can be repeated. Takes approximately 5 minutes per eye.
Laser Peripheral Iridotomy (LPI)
Creates a tiny opening in the iris to improve fluid flow and relieve pressure. The primary treatment for angle-closure glaucoma. Quick, painless procedure.
The good news is that very few glaucoma patients ever need surgery. The vast majority of people with glaucoma are successfully managed long-term with eye drops and laser treatment. Surgery is only considered when drops and laser cannot adequately control eye pressure despite optimal treatment. Your ophthalmologist will discuss all options with you and refer to an appropriate surgical specialist if ever required.
Trabeculectomy
The most established glaucoma surgery. A small drainage channel is created in the eye wall, allowing excess fluid to escape and reducing pressure significantly. Performed as a day procedure under local anaesthetic.
Tube Shunt Surgery (Glaucoma Drainage Device)
A small silicone tube is implanted to redirect fluid. Recommended when trabeculectomy is not suitable — for example, in eyes with prior surgery or complex glaucoma.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
Newer procedures with a safer side-effect profile, often combined with cataract surgery. Options include iStent Inject, KDB Goniotomy, and PRESERFLO MicroShunt. Dr Mariana Sheales will advise which is most appropriate for your situation.
Find Out Which Treatment is Right for You
Our ophthalmologist at Clarity Eye Surgeons will assess your glaucoma type and severity to recommend the most appropriate, personalised treatment plan.
Types of Glaucoma
There are several types of glaucoma, each with different causes and treatment approaches. Understanding which type you have is essential to managing it effectively.
Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma
The most prevalent form. The drainage system becomes less efficient over time, causing pressure to rise slowly and silently. No symptoms in early stages.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma
The drainage angle becomes suddenly blocked. An acute attack causes severe pain, sudden vision loss, nausea, and halos — requires immediate treatment.
Normal-Tension Glaucoma
Optic nerve damage despite normal eye pressure. May relate to poor blood flow to the nerve. Requires careful monitoring and treatment.
Secondary Glaucoma
Develops from trauma, inflammation, steroid use, or previous surgery. Treatment addresses both the underlying cause and elevated eye pressure.
Congenital / Paediatric Glaucoma
Present from birth or developing in early childhood. Early surgical intervention is usually required. Our team provides specialist paediatric eye care.
What to Expect — Before, During & After Treatment
- Obtain a GP or optometrist referral (required for Medicare rebates)
- Bring a list of your current medications, including any eye drops
- Allow 60–90 minutes for your initial consultation — eyes may be dilated temporarily
- Arrange a driver if your eyes are being dilated or a procedure is planned
Eye Drops
Prescribed for home use, typically once or twice daily. Dr Mariana Sheales will explain exactly how and when to use your drops. Correct technique matters — the practice team can demonstrate the right method if needed.
Laser Treatment
Performed at Clarity Eye Surgeons as a day procedure. Local anaesthetic is used — you will be awake and comfortable throughout. Most procedures take 15–60 minutes and you can go home the same day.
- Some redness, mild discomfort, or temporary blurring is normal after laser treatment
- Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are usually prescribed post-procedure
- Avoid rubbing the eye, strenuous exercise, and swimming during recovery
- Close follow-up appointments in the first weeks are essential
- Contact Clarity Eye Surgeons immediately if you experience sudden pain, vision loss, or increased redness
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery After Glaucoma Treatment
After laser treatment, most patients return to normal activities within 24–48 hours. Most glaucoma patients are managed with drops and laser — very few ever require surgical intervention.
Recovery Timeline
- Days 1–3: Some redness and mild discomfort is normal
- Week 1–2: Most patients resume light activities; follow-up appointments are essential
- Weeks 4–12: Full healing and pressure stabilisation; vision gradually improves
- After healing: A new glasses prescription may be needed once the eye has settled
Things to Avoid
- Do NOT rub or press on the operated eye
- Avoid tap water or soap entering the eye for 2–3 weeks
- No strenuous exercise or heavy lifting for 4 weeks
- No swimming for at least 6 weeks
- Do not drive until cleared by your specialist
- Continue all prescribed eye drops as directed
Seek urgent review if you experience: sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, increased redness, or discharge after treatment. Call Clarity Eye Surgeons on (02) 6248 9555.
Meet Our Surgeons
All patients at Clarity Eye Surgeons are seen by a fully-qualified FRANZCO ophthalmologist.
Dr Parth Shah
Director & Principal Ophthalmologist
Adjunct Assoc. Professor, University of Canberra
- Cataract surgery — phacoemulsification & laser-assisted (FLACS)
- Strabismus surgery — adults and children
- Paediatric ophthalmology & eye injections (AMD, DMO, RVO)
- Over 4,000 surgeries performed — Canberra Hospital consultant
Dr Mariana Sheales
Comprehensive Ophthalmologist
Oxford University Eye Hospital Fellowship
- Comprehensive ophthalmologist — treats all eye conditions
- Glaucoma management with drops and laser (SLT, LPI)
- Cataract surgery, dry eye, diabetic eye disease
- Born and raised in Canberra — committed to local community
Frequently Asked Questions — Glaucoma Treatment
Glaucoma cannot currently be cured, but it can be effectively managed. Treatment aims to lower eye pressure to a safe level, preventing or slowing further damage to the optic nerve. With proper treatment and regular monitoring, most patients with glaucoma maintain good functional vision throughout their lives.
Yes — a family history of glaucoma significantly increases your risk. First-degree relatives (parents, siblings, children) of a person diagnosed with glaucoma have a much higher risk of developing the condition themselves. We strongly recommend that immediate family members have a comprehensive eye examination including glaucoma screening.
Glaucoma is diagnosed through a thorough eye examination including tonometry (eye pressure), visual field testing (peripheral vision), an OCT scan of the optic nerve, and a dilated optic nerve examination. These tests together give a complete picture of the health of your optic nerve and drainage system.
Untreated glaucoma causes progressive and irreversible damage to the optic nerve. Vision loss typically begins with peripheral (side) vision and gradually progresses to tunnel vision and, ultimately, blindness. An acute angle-closure attack, if not treated promptly, can cause permanent severe vision loss within hours.
Yes — Medicare provides rebates for most glaucoma consultations, investigations (including visual field tests), laser procedures, and surgical treatments. The amount of any out-of-pocket cost will depend on the specific procedures and fees. Our team will provide a full cost estimate at your consultation so there are no surprises.
Most patients with glaucoma are reviewed every 3–6 months. This typically includes eye pressure measurement, optic nerve assessment, and periodic visual field and OCT monitoring. Even when glaucoma is well controlled, lifelong follow-up is essential — because the disease can still progress in some patients despite good pressure control.
A referral from your GP or optometrist is recommended to access Medicare rebates for your specialist consultation. If you or your optometrist have concerns about your eye pressure or optic nerve, ask your GP to refer you to Clarity Eye Surgeons. For urgent cases — such as a suspected acute angle-closure attack — call (02) 6248 9555 directly or attend Canberra Hospital Emergency Department.
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