The idea of glaucoma surgery may be frightening, but sometimes it is the best—or only remaining—treatment option. As with any surgery, there are a variety of risks to consider beforehand and side effects you may experience afterward. 

One way to help decrease your concerns and feel confident about having glaucoma surgery is to choose the right ophthalmologist for your operation. Discover six ways to help you choose the best ophthalmologist.* 

Glaucoma surgery training

During an ophthalmologist’s residency program, exposure to glaucoma surgeries will vary and may be limited. Ophthalmologists can later choose to devote more practice to the care and surgery of glaucoma patients. 

When you visit the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO) website, you can identify ophthalmologists that are board-certified. You can also check the American Glaucoma Society (AGS) to find a glaucoma doctor near you.  All AGS members are board-certified and have completed a fellowship approved by the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO).

Word-of-mouth referrals

Speaking to other doctors and your family and friends is a great way to find out about reputable ophthalmologists. The community you already have is the best way to learn pros and cons of a specific doctor from someone you trust.

Where to have surgery

Due to insurance coverage and accessibility, some surgery care centers may be limited to you. If you have the option to choose between a large medical center or private practice, it is important to weigh out the benefits of each. 

Large medical centers tend to have more resources and be geared for more complex patients. On the other hand, private practices may have less bureaucracy and be more efficient. 

Amount of surgery experience 

Surgery experience is important—and this doesn’t necessarily mean an older doctor. Some types of glaucoma surgery are more new than others, so it’s important to ask your doctor about their experience with the surgery they’re recommending. 

Ask them about the risks and benefits of the surgery and if they would choose the same surgery for themselves. No surgeon will be offended, as they are used to these types of questions and understand your concerns. 

Getting a second opinion

Whenever possible, it’s important to get a second opinion. Glaucoma can be treated with different types of surgeries. All ophthalmologists should be familiar with current research practices on glaucoma surgery. They may, however, choose a surgery based on what works best for them and their hands. Thus, getting a second opinion allows you to ask more questions and determine if a surgeon, or surgery, is the best choice for you. 

Building rapport and trust

After going through all the previous steps, rapport and trust will give you a good gut feeling about an ophthalmologist. A surgeon who takes the time to listen and build rapport with you, including answering all of your questions, is someone who cares. 

*Ou, Y. (2020, Mar. 16). How To Choose the Best Ophthalmologist for Glaucoma Surgery. BrightFocus Foundation. https://www.brightfocus.org/glaucoma/article/how-choose-best-ophthalmologist-glaucoma-surgery

Any sources from outside of Prevent Blindness do not imply an endorsement from Prevent Blindness. The contents of the material used are the responsibility of the authoring organization, Responsum Health.