Vitrectomy is a surgical treatment that is done to treat serious eye diseases from within that affect vision. It is most extensively utilised for any diseases of the retina and vitreous. The vitreous is a jelly-like material that is clear and very clear in the middle of the eye. Its primary function is to help the eye maintain its shape, but it is also required to allow the light to pass through to the retina, which is the light-sensitive shard at the back of the eye. When the vitreous becomes cloudy, infected, filled with blood or starts to pull on the retina, the vision becomes blurred or is even lost all at once.
Vitrectomy is a mini operation in which the vitreous gel is carefully removed from the eye. Once the vitreous is removed, the surgeon has good access to the retina and other structures far down inside the eye. The removed vitreous is replaced with clear fluid, a gas bubble or silicone oil. This replacement helps in maintaining the shape of the eye and also helps in healing. In time, the fluid is replaced by the eye itself with a clear liquid.
The primary reason for the removal of the Vitreous is any interference with vision or inability to treat the disease of the Retina properly. By removing it, the surgeon can clear up everything cloudy, stop bleeding, repair damage to the retina, and reduce traction on delicate retinal tissue.
Vitrectomy is not something that is recommended lightly. It is typically advised that a person has symptoms that indicate serious damage to their eyes. These symptoms may include sudden or severe vision loss, blurred, cloudy vision that enters the vision and does not go away, dark floaters that don't clear up, flashes of light, or a shadow or curtain that is going across the vision.
Distorted or wavy central vision may also be a sign of retinal problems that will require surgery. These symptoms should never be ignored, since, if treated early, the chances of sight recovery are much better.
A detailed examination of the eye is performed before surgery to analyse the retina and vitreous. Imaging scans help to know precisely what the problem is and plan for surgery. Blood tests and medical clearance may also be needed.
Patients are usually advised to stop taking certain medications before surgery and not eat for many hours before the surgery. Clear directions are provided for the day of surgery to be able to reach a level of safety and comfort.
Recovery after vitrectomy depends on the state that has been operated on and the type of material that has been put inside the eye. Immediately after surgery, the eye may feel sore, watery, or irritated. Vision is usually blurry initially, and this is normal. An eye patch was permissible for protection. Eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation are prescribed. These should be used as recommended at all times.
If a gas bubble is used, patients may be required to have a face-down position for several days. This positioning helps put pressure on the retina from the gas bubble, which aids in its healing process. Though uncomfortable, this step is critical to successful outcomes with plenty of retinal surgeries. The surgeon will clearly explain to you for how long and how strictly such positioning is necessary.
Vision recovery once vitrectomy is performed is slow. In the first few days, the vision may be very blurred. For the following weeks, improvement gradually begins. It may take several months to stabilise the final vision. The degree of vision recovery depends upon the degree of damage before the surgery. If intervention is started at a young age, the child is usually able to do better.
Most patients resume daily activities when the healing process is complete. Vision may not be perfect, but oftentimes is significantly improved when compared to the eyes before surgery. Long-term treatment involves a regular eye exam, requesting that the eyes not be injured, and understanding of diseases such as diabetes. Pay attention to new symptoms; those who seek early care are helping to maintain their vision.
Yes, vitrectomy is considered to be a major eye surgery as it is done inside the eye. However, it is also a procedure that is performed very regularly by eye surgeons. With modern surgical machines, improved resolution microscopes, and improved techniques, vitrectomy is very safe and quite effective.
No, vitrectomy surgery itself is not painful. The eye is highly inhibited using local anesthesia, or the patient is given general anesthesia, depending upon the situation. During the surgery, you will not feel any pain. After the procedure, mild discomfort, soreness, or the feeling of a foreign object is common for several days. This is normal and usually settles down on the prescribed medication of eye drops and pain relief medicine.
During this time, the eye heals, and inflammation reduces. Vision may be blurry initially, which may gradually improve. Full recovery could take a few months. The exact time of recovery depends on the condition treated and the complexity of the surgery.
The eyesight improves in most cases following vitrectomy, but this may not return to normal. The ultimate visual result essentially depends on the extent to which the retina was healthy before surgery, as well as how early the disease was treated.
Yes, vitrectomy may be performed in both eyes if it is necessary. However, it is not usually done on both eyes at the same time. Surgeons prefer to operate on one eye and let it heal before designating future surgery on the other if necessary. This way, the patients are safe and also able to manage the recovery process most comfortably.
Vitrectomy surgery is a very important surgery for saving vision in complex eye conditions. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention make a big difference in terms of outcome.
At Save Sight Centre, we use the latest technologies in surgical systems and contemporary evidence-based methods to carry out vitrectomy safely and accurately by our retina specialists. We do complete care here, all the way from making the diagnosis to surgery on the patient, and long-term follow-up care. Our goal is not simply to treat the condition, but to preserve your future vision and quality of life.
Copyright © 2025 | Save Sight Centre | All Rights Reserved.