How many days does glaucoma surgery require?

Nov 18, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
The duration of glaucoma surgery depends on the type of procedure, with individual surgeries typically lasting 30 minutes to 1 hour. The overall hospital stay and recovery period usually range from 1 to 5 days, and there is a notable difference in recovery time between minimally invasive and traditional surgeries. After surgery, patients must strictly follow medical instructions, avoid rubbing the eyes, strenuous exercise, and eye trauma, use anti-inflammatory and anti-metabolic eye drops as prescribed, and maintain good ocular hygiene.

  The duration of glaucoma surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. A single operation typically takes 30 minutes to 1 hour, and the overall hospital stay and recovery period usually range from 1 to 5 days. There is a notable difference in recovery time between minimally invasive and traditional surgeries. Detailed information is as follows:

  Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery involves less trauma and simpler procedures, with each operation completed within 30–40 minutes. Postoperative reactions are generally mild. Most patients require a hospital stay of 1–2 days to complete basic evaluations such as intraocular pressure monitoring and eye dressing changes. After confirmation of no complications, they can be discharged and continue recovery at home.

  Traditional glaucoma surgery requires the creation of a filtering bleb and involves more complex surgical steps, taking approximately 40 minutes to 1 hour. Close postoperative monitoring of bleb morphology, intraocular pressure changes, and potential infection risks is necessary. The hospital stay is relatively longer, typically 3–5 days, until the condition stabilizes before discharge. Some patients may require follow-up visits to adjust their treatment plans.

  After surgery, it is essential to strictly follow medical instructions: avoid rubbing the eyes, strenuous exercise, and ocular trauma; use anti-inflammatory and anti-metabolite eye drops as prescribed. Maintain good eye hygiene, eat light and easily digestible food, and avoid spicy or irritating foods. Attend scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor intraocular pressure, fundus condition, and bleb status, ensuring stable surgical outcomes.

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