Cataract Surgery in the Hypotonous Eye

Hypotony refers to a low intraocular pressure (IOP), typically <6 mmHg. Some further classify hypotony as a low IOP in the setting of related pathologic changes (e.g., maculopathy). Cataract surgery in the presence of hypotony can present unique challenges. These can be navigated by knowledge of how hypotonous eyes respond to surgical manipulation, the common conditions that cause or accompany hypotony, and expectations of a typical postoperative course.