Viscocanalostomy for Glaucoma: Uses, Risks and Follow-Up
Viscocanalostomy is a non-penetrating glaucoma operation intended to improve drainage of fluid from the eye and lower intraocular pressure. It is not a new universal treatment and is not suitable for every type or stage of glaucoma.
Why it may be considered
An ophthalmologist should assess the glaucoma diagnosis, drainage angle, eye pressure, optic nerve, visual field, medicines, previous laser or surgery and the person’s ability to attend follow-up. Alternatives may include monitoring, eye drops, laser, trabeculectomy, drainage devices or another glaucoma operation.
Procedure and limitations
The surgeon creates a scleral flap and works near Schlemm’s canal to improve aqueous drainage without deliberately entering the anterior chamber in the same way as trabeculectomy. Technique varies. Pressure may remain too high, medicines may still be needed and further laser or surgery may be required.
Risks and follow-up
Possible complications include bleeding, infection, inflammation, low or high eye pressure, scarring, cataract, damage to nearby structures, vision change and failure to control glaucoma. Close pressure, optic nerve and visual-field monitoring remains essential because glaucoma damage can progress without obvious symptoms.
The NICE glaucoma guideline provides the wider framework for diagnosis, treatment and monitoring. Procedure choice should be made by a glaucoma specialist using the individual findings rather than a quoted success percentage.
Revitalize care checks
Confirm the named contracted ophthalmologist and hospital, diagnosis, proposed procedure, alternatives, tests, quotation, follow-up and emergency plan. See Revitalize’s eye treatment information and contact route.
Planning glaucoma care with Revitalize in Turkey
For a planned assessment, start with our glaucoma treatment service. Based in Izmir with more than two decades of experience, our own team supports you from your first message to communication after you return home. We forward your eye reports to the appropriate medical specialist, arrange a doctor video consultation when appropriate and provide a personal written plan and quotation. Confirm the ophthalmologist, hospital or clinic, proposed procedure and follow-up before booking.
Your agreed arrangements can include private airport, hospital and check-up transfers, bilingual assistance and daily practical support. Our Mandarin Grove retreat in Urla offers private rooms, breakfast and dinner and 24/7 practical hospitality support; it does not replace clinical examinations or nursing care. Our aftercare team helps relay your doctor’s instructions and requested progress information after you return home. Explore patient reviews, patient videos and UK meeting opportunities for the service experience; they do not establish the outcome of glaucoma surgery.
Questions about arranging your assessment
Can my suitability be confirmed before I travel?
Reports and a video consultation, when appropriate, help plan the assessment. Your ophthalmologist makes the clinical decision after the necessary examinations; an enquiry does not confirm suitability.
What should my written quotation cover?
Ask for the proposed appointments and procedure, named provider and facility, follow-up schedule, accommodation and transfers, plus exclusions and arrangements if the plan changes.
Who helps after I return home?
Revitalize maintains communication with your treating team and forwards requested updates. The doctor sets the follow-up plan. Sudden or worsening eye symptoms require local medical assessment; do not wait for a travel quotation or remote reply.
Keep learning
Got more questions? We answer them every week
Short, practical videos on preparing for treatment, travelling and recovering, plus a community group where you can ask our team directly.
Travelling from South Africa?
Read Glaucoma treatment in Turkey, written for patients flying from Johannesburg or Cape Town: the e-Visa, how long to stay in İzmir and what to arrange at home. Or see all guides for South African patients.
