Vitrectomy - Recovery After Vitrectomy

Recovery After Vitrectomy

Patients use eye drops for several weeks or longer to allow the surface of the eye to heal. In some cases heavy lifting is avoided for a few weeks. A gas bubble may be placed inside the eye to keep the retina in place. If a gas bubble is used, sometimes a certain head positioning has to be maintained, such as face down or sleeping on the right or left side. It is very important to follow the physician’s specific instructions. The gas bubble will dissolve over time, but this takes several weeks. Flying should be avoided while the gas bubble is still present. Problems such as return of the original condition, bleeding, or infection from the surgery may require additional treatment or can result in blindness. In the event that the patient would need to remain face down after surgery, a vitrectomy support system can be rented to help aid during the recovery time. This particular equipment may be used for as little as five days to as long as three weeks.