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What to Expect Before, During, and After a Vitrectomy

Being told you need eye surgery can feel overwhelming—especially when it involves the delicate structures of your retina. If your doctor recommended a vitrectomy, it likely means your vision is at risk, but there’s also good news: this common, highly effective procedure is often the best path toward protecting—and in some cases, restoring—your sight. 

A vitrectomy is a type of eye surgery that removes the vitreous gel from the middle of the eye to allow better access to the retina. Some common reasons a vitrectomy may be needed include:

  • Retinal detachment – when the retina pulls away from the back wall of the eye
  • Macular hole or pucker – tiny defects or scar tissue in the central retina that distort vision
  • Vitreous hemorrhage – bleeding in the eye that clouds vision
  • Complications from diabetic retinopathy – like leaking vessels or traction on the retina
  • Severe eye infections or trauma – when quick cleanup and repair are critical

Before surgery:

You will have a thorough eye exam and imaging tests to map out the issue. Your doctor will go over your medical history, including any medications you’re taking. In some cases, you may be asked to stop blood thinners or adjust diabetes medications before surgery.  

You’ll also get instructions on fasting (no food or drink for several hours beforehand), and you’ll need someone to drive you home after the procedure. 

During surgery:

Vitrectomy is usually done under local anesthesia with sedation, though general anesthesia is sometimes used. The surgeon makes a small incision in the white of the eye to insert fine instruments that remove the vitreous gel. From there, they may perform other procedures—like repairing a retinal tear, removing scar tissue or placing a gas bubble or silicone oil to stabilize the retina. 

The surgery can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on complexity.

After surgery:

Your eye will be sore and possibly patched for a day. Some discomfort, redness and blurry vision are normal early on. If a gas bubble was used during surgery, you’ll need to keep your head in a specific position, usually head down, for several days to help the gas bubble press against the retina. Air travel is off-limits until the bubble dissolves. 

You’ll use prescription eye drops for a few weeks and have regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing. Most people resume normal activities gradually, avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous work for a few weeks. 

Visual improvement depends on the condition being treated and how long it had been affecting the eye before surgery. For some, vision clears up within weeks. For others, especially with more severe retinal issues, improvement is slower and may be limited. 

A vitrectomy is often the best option to save or improve your vision in serious retinal conditions. While it’s reasonable to feel uneasy about eye surgery, knowing what to expect makes the process more manageable. 
To learn more, contact Associated Retina Consultants at 602-242-4928 or WEBSITE.