What to Expect Before, During and After Retina Surgery

Retina surgery, also called vitrectomy surgery, is a procedure performed on the inside of the eye to treat retinal disorders and conditions. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after the surgery can help you prepare and have the best possible outcome.

Before Surgery

Leading up to the surgery, your ophthalmologist will conduct a detailed pre-operative eye exam. They will check your vision, examine your retina, and take measurements of your eye. This helps them plan the specifics of your procedure. You may need additional testing like optical coherence tomography or fluorescein angiography. These images allow your surgeon to pinpoint areas of concern on your retina.

Your doctor will ask you to stop taking certain medications, including blood thinners, prior to surgery. The night before or morning of your procedure, you will use medicated eye drops to dilate your pupils. Plan to arrange transportation, as your vision will be blurry after eye dilation. You’ll need someone to drive you home after surgery.

During Surgery

On the day of surgery, the medical team will start an IV line and give you medication to help you relax. The surgery itself takes 1-2 hours and is done under local or general anesthesia.

The surgeon will make tiny incisions in your eye wall and insert microscopic surgical tools. They remove the vitreous, a gel-like substance that fills the back of your eye. Next, they peel scar tissue or membranes off the retina and treat conditions like retinal detachment, macular holes, or diabetic retinopathy. Laser therapy or a gas bubble may be used. Finally, the incisions are closed with absorbable stitches.

After Surgery

You’ll need to wear an eye patch and protective shield the first night after vitrectomy surgery. Your eye may be sore for the first few days. Plan to take at least a week off work to recover. Avoid strenuous activity or heavy lifting. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully on medications, eye drops, and activity restrictions.

It can take several weeks for your vision to improve and adjust after retina surgery. You’ll slowly taper off medicated eye drops over the first month. You may notice some floating spots or shadows in your vision - this usually resolves. With proper aftercare, vitrectomy surgery helps preserve vision and eye health.

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