Glaucoma Treatment & Advanced Surgical Options
Cathedral Eye is the only private clinic in Ireland offering advanced glaucoma surgeries.
Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a progressive eye condition that damages the optic nerve, often caused by increased pressure within the eye.
Because this damage is permanent, early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential to preserving vision and preventing long-term sight loss.
At Cathedral Eye Clinic, we offer comprehensive glaucoma care, led by Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon Mr Gerard Reid from early detection to the most advanced surgical solutions.
Cathedral Eye is the only private clinic in Ireland offering advanced glaucoma surgeries.
Key Benefits & Unique Expertise
- Only private clinic offering advanced glaucoma surgeries, including MIGS, trabeculectomy and aqueous shunts
- Highly experienced surgeons with extensive expertise in complex and progressive glaucoma
- State-of-the-art diagnostic technology, including OCT imaging, visual-field analysis & advanced pressure assessment
- Tailored treatment plans built around your lifestyle, glaucoma type and long-term vision goals
Symptoms & When to Seek Help
Glaucoma often develops slowly and without noticeable symptoms.
Early detection is essential.
Common Symptoms
- Blurred or patchy vision
- Halos around lights
- Increased difficulty seeing at night
- Eye pain or redness
- Frequent prescription changes
- Sudden vision loss (medical emergency)
Acute Glaucoma Symptoms
Seek immediate assessment if you experience sudden eye pain, severe headache, nausea, or rapid vision changes.
- Often no symptoms in early stages
- Gradual loss of peripheral vision
- Tunnel vision in advanced stages
- Blurred vision in later stages
When Should You Get Tested?
Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection.
We recommend testing:
- Every 2 years for everyone over 40
- Annually if you have a family history of glaucoma
- More frequently if you're of African-Caribbean or East Asian descent
- Immediately if you experience any acute symptoms
Understanding Glaucoma
What is Glaucoma?
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to elevated eye pressure. If left untreated, this damage can lead to irreversible vision loss.
At Cathedral Eye Clinic, we diagnose all glaucoma types including:
- open-angle
- secondary
- angle-closure
- normal-tension glaucoma
and provide ongoing management to protect your vision for the long term.
Did you know?
Glaucoma affects 2% of people over 40 and 10% of people over 75. Early detection through regular eye tests is your best defence.
Treatment Options
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty (SLT)
What it is: A non-invasive laser procedure that improves fluid drainage to reduce eye pressure.
Who it’s for: Patients with early-stage open-angle glaucoma or ocular hypertension.
Key benefits: Quick, painless, minimal downtime and can reduce or eliminate the need for drops.
Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS)
What it is: A group of modern, low-impact surgical techniques performed via microscopic incisions.
Who it’s for: Mild to moderate glaucoma, often combined with cataract surgery.
Key benefits: Safer, faster recovery, fewer complications, and effective pressure reduction.
Trabeculectomy
What it is: A surgical procedure creating a new drainage channel to reduce eye pressure.
Who it’s for: Moderate to advanced glaucoma or cases not responding to other treatments.
Key benefits: Proven long-term effectiveness and often the gold standard for advanced glaucoma.
Aqueous Shunts (Glaucoma Drainage Implants)
What it is: Tiny implanted devices that redirect fluid from inside the eye to a controlled reservoir.
Who it’s for: Advanced or complex glaucoma, including secondary glaucomas.
Key benefits: Consistent pressure control for difficult-to-treat cases.
Watch our expert consultants explain glaucoma diagnosis and treatment options.
Patient Experience
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“I was worried about losing my sight to glaucoma, but the team at Cathedral Eye gave me peace of mind. The surgery was straightforward, and the aftercare was excellent. My eye pressure is now under control, and I can focus on enjoying life again.”
Margaret T.
Trabeculectomy Patient, Belfast
Patient Journey
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During this appointment, we carry out a full eye assessment using advanced diagnostic technology to gain a complete picture of your eye health.
We take time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle and visual expectations so we can recommend the most appropriate treatment options and support you in making a confident, informed decision.
Once your assessment is complete, your specialist will discuss the most suitable procedure for your individual needs.
We prioritise transparency and evidence-based care, ensuring you fully understand the benefits, expectations and alternatives before moving forward.
You will meet your surgeon again to review the treatment plan and have plenty of time to ask questions.
Our goal is to ensure you feel fully prepared, supported and reassured ahead of your surgery day.
Your surgeon will talk you through each stage of the process so you know exactly what to expect.
As with any eye procedure, vision may be temporarily blurred afterwards, so please arrange alternative transport and avoid driving.
Most patients notice improvement very quickly, although recovery times vary by treatment.
Our team remains available at every stage to answer questions and provide reassurance, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome for your vision.
Understanding Glaucoma
Glaucoma refers to a group of eye diseases that damage the optic nerve, often due to elevated eye pressure. If left untreated, this damage can lead to irreversible vision loss.
At Cathedral Eye Clinic, we diagnose all glaucoma types – including open-angle, angle- closure, secondary and normal-tension glaucoma and provide ongoing management to
protect your vision for the long term.
Meet the Team
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Why Choose Cathedral Eye Clinic?
- Expertise from Mr Gerard Reid, a leading Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon with decades of glaucoma experience
- Full-spectrum care from early diagnosis to the most advanced surgical options
- A calm, patient-focused environment with exceptional attention to comfort
- Access to state-of-the-art lasers, imaging and surgical technologies
- Trusted centre for referrals from optometrists across Northern Ireland
Pricing & Finance
We offer transparent pricing and tailored packages for diagnosis and treatment.
Glaucoma Consultation
£300
SLT Laser Treatment
from £1000
MIGs
£3500
Trabeculectomy
from £4500
Flexible interest-free finance options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is glaucoma curable?
Glaucoma cannot be reversed, but early and effective treatment can prevent further vision loss.
Does glaucoma always cause symptoms?
No, many patients notice no symptoms until advanced stages. Regular eye exams are vital.
How long do glaucoma surgeries last?
Many procedures offer long-term pressure control, though ongoing monitoring is always required.
Will I still need eye drops after surgery?
Some patients may reduce their reliance on drops; others may still need them. It depends on your response.
Can glaucoma be inherited?
Yes, family history increases risk, especially for first-degree relatives.
How quickly will I recover?
Most modern procedures have fast recovery times, but this varies by surgery type.
Book a Consultation
We’re here to answer your questions, talk through the process, and arrange a consultation with our caring team when you’re ready.
