6 Steps to Successful Eye Surgery (Facedown) Recovery

As a provider of rental equipment for vitrectomy recovery throughout Ontario, we are excited to be part of your eye surgery recovery.  With a growing number of rentals, we see time and time again a pattern in the steps renter's take in achieving successful surgery results despite a potential gloomy outlook.  I want to suggest that successful vitrectomy recovery requires the following: 

• Attitude – You can do this! Although this will feel long at times, it is well worth it. I know from experience.

• Proper Position – This includes limiting any movement. I was told no exercise.  For me exercise meant running and cycling.  To my surgeon it also meant walking around the block.  I continued this for the 10 weeks I was instructed to.  I in no way wanted to look back 2 or 3 months later regretting that I had done something I should not have to jeopardize my recovery.  Many people will rent two pieces of vitrectomy recovery equipment (Vitrectomy Table and the Vitrectomy Chair) in order to provide a change of position. Knowing that when they are resting on the equipment provides ensures they are doing what they should be doing to achieve recovery success.

• Pillows – It may take you a couple of days of rotating pillows to find the sweet spot.  Remember, what works for 2 or 3 hours may not work for the 3rd hour.  Keep moving the pillows around in order to change potential pressure points.

• Patience - This is a slow recovery. I expected to see the day after surgery. In my case I may have been over a week before beginning to see some light or fingers.  I have had renter's unable to see much of anything after the 10 days and yet two months later when I saw them there was a big smile on their face.  Their sight was restored.

• Perseverance – Recovery is a true character builder. Your sight is worth it.  Take it one day at a time.  I was reminded that everyday in the 10 day facedown or head down position is 10% of your recovery.

• Strategy for Utilizing Your Time – I have provided some ideas in the link below.

All the best in your recovery.