Common Procedures
- Vitrectomy: Removal of vitreous gel to repair retinal detachment, macular holes, or epiretinal membranes.
- Gas/Oil Bubble: A gas or silicone oil bubble may be placed in the eye to hold the retina in place.
Post-Operative Care Instructions
Posturing (Crucial)
- Head Positioning: If a gas bubble was used, you MUST maintain the specific head position prescribed by your surgeon (e.g., face down) for the required duration (often 5-7 days).
- Why? The bubble needs to press against the specific area of the retina to seal the break.
Gas Bubble Precautions
- NO FLYING: You strictly cannot fly or travel to high altitudes until the gas bubble has fully absorbed (can take weeks).
- Vision: Vision will be very poor (like seeing through water) while the bubble is present. You will see a line in your vision that moves as the bubble shrinks.
General Care
- Eye Shield: Wear the shield at night for 2 weeks.
- Hygiene: Keep the eye dry and clean; avoid water entering the eye.
- Drops: Follow the complex drop regimen strictly to prevent infection and inflammation.
Red Flags
- Increasing pain
- Loss of light perception
- Nausea/vomiting (may indicate high pressure)