It's normal to feel a little nervous and apprehensive when your doctor tells you that you need to have surgery because of a problem inside your eye. Especially if it's a surgery with a name that's so unfamiliar to us, like 'Vitrectomy,' that fear increases even more. But don't worry. Today, we'll talk about this very simply, in a way that you can understand, as if you were talking to a friend.
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What is Vitrectomy?
Simply put, a vitrectomy is the surgical removal of the jelly-like substance inside your eye. This jelly is medically known as the vitreous humor . This is what fills the center of your eyeball, helping to give it its proper shape.
In this procedure, the eye surgeon makes a very small incision in your eye and uses very fine instruments to remove the vitreous jelly. After removing it, any damage or problems in the most important part of the eye, such as the retina, are repaired. The retina is the film-like part of a camera that sends what we see to the brain as light signals.
After the repair is complete, the removed jelly is replaced with sterile salt water, a special silicone oil, or a gas bubble. This helps the eye maintain its shape and keep the repaired retina in place.
In what cases is vitrectomy surgery necessary?
Vitrectomy surgery is usually recommended when vision is impaired or at risk of complete loss due to a problem inside the eye. Let's take a look at the main cases.
| Condition | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Retinal detachment | The retina of the eye detaches from the tissues that are attached to it. This is an emergency. |
| Diabetic retinopathy | Diabetes can cause blood vessels in the eye to leak blood or fluid and new, weak blood vessels to form. This can cause the vitreous jelly to fill with blood, causing blurred vision. |
| Macular hole | A hole in the central part of the retina (macula), which gives us our clearest and sharpest vision. |
| Macular pucker | The macula becomes a thin layer of tissue that forms on the surface of the eye, causing distorted vision. |
| Eye injury | When there is bleeding or damage inside the eye due to an accident such as a sharp object being poked in the eye or a blow. |
| Infection inside the eye (Endophthalmitis) | An infection inside the eyeball caused by bacteria or fungi. |
| Lens issues | This surgery is necessary in some complex cataract surgeries or when the lens of the eye has become detached. |
What happens before and during the surgery?
Before surgery
Your doctor will give you clear instructions on when to stop eating and drinking the day before your surgery. You should also let them know about any medications you are currently taking (especially blood thinners).
The most important thing is to have someone you trust to take you home after the surgery. You can usually go home the same day.
During surgery
Although you may feel scared, the medical team will be closely monitoring everything, including your heart rate and blood pressure, throughout this entire time.
- Numbness:Most of the time, you will be given an injection that numbs only your eye (local anesthesia). You will be awake but will not feel any pain. In some complex cases, you may be put completely to sleep (general anesthesia).
- Procedure: With your eye open with a special instrument, the surgeon uses a microscope to very carefully remove the vitreous jelly and make the necessary repairs. If there are bleeding veins, they may also be treated with a laser.
- Time: The length of time the surgery takes varies depending on the nature of the repair being done. While a simple surgery may take about an hour, a complex surgery may take longer.
What happens after the surgery? How long does it take to recover?
After the surgery, you will be kept in a recovery area for a while and then discharged with the necessary instructions when you are ready to go home.
Especially remember: If you have a gas bubble or silicone oil inserted into your eye, you will need to keep your face down for a few days or a week. This may be uncomfortable, but it is essential for your retina to heal properly. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to sleep and how to position your head.
You will be given eye drops and an eye patch. You must follow these instructions exactly.
- Recovery time: You will usually be unable to go to work or school for two to four weeks . You will also need to wait a few days before driving.
- Vision: Vision may be a little blurry in the first few days. This is normal. It will gradually improve over time. If a gas bubble is placed in the eye, it may take several weeks for it to clear up. Vision may be very blurry at first, but it will gradually clear from top to bottom.
- Risks: As with any surgery, there are some risks. For example, infection, bleeding, retinal detachment, early cataract formation, and changes in eye pressure. However, these are very rare.
When do you need to call the doctor immediately?
If you experience any of the following symptoms after surgery, contact your doctor without delay .
| Symptoms that require urgent attention | |
|---|---|
| 🔴 If there is severe pain | More than just ordinary discomfort, unbearable pain. |
| 🔴 If you show signs of infection | Excessive redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye. |
| 🔴 If your vision gets worse | If vision becomes more blurred or reduced instead of improving. |
| 🔴 Any other serious signs | Anything that seems unusual to you. |
Vitrectomy is the most successful solution today for many eye diseases that were previously untreatable. It has a great chance of saving your sight or restoring lost sight. So, don't be afraid, and follow the doctor's instructions exactly. Ask them about any questions or concerns you may have.
💡 Take-Home Message
- Vitrectomy is a very important surgery performed to save the eye's vision. There is no need to be afraid.
- The instructions given by the doctor after surgery, especially on how to hold your head, are essential for healing.
- It is normal to have blurred vision in the early days, but it will gradually improve over time.
- If you notice anything like severe pain, signs of infection, or worsening vision, call your doctor immediately.
- Before and after surgery, ask your doctor any questions you may have.
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