Facedown Recovery is more than just a physical exercise, it is a mental exercise. Our goal is to help you manage your recover rather than endure your recovery. Having learned from our renters since 2015, we keep tweaking things so that you are best prepared for your facedown recovery.
Continue to learn about your vitrectomy recovery
and join the discussion on eye health, nutrition and more along with
1100+ others facing the same situation.
Every week, we meet people just like you—navigating the uncertainty of eye surgery recovery with courage and questions. After walking this road myself and supporting countless others through our equipment rentals across Ontario, I’ve seen firsthand what makes a real difference in healing. From posture tips and pillow strategies to patient perseverance, this guide shares practical wisdom and encouragement to help you or your loved one recover with confidence.
Read more: Steps to Successful Eye Surgery (Facedown) Recovery
Caring for a loved one after vitrectomy surgery can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it alone. This guide offers practical tips and heartfelt encouragement for caregivers during the critical first days of recovery. From managing medications and daily routines to providing emotional support and knowing what signs to watch for, you’ll find the tools and reassurance you need to walk alongside someone you care about—step by step, with grace and hope.
Read more: The First 48 Hours and Beyond: A Caregiver’s Role in Eye Surgery Recovery
The first 48 hours post-vitrectomy are often the most difficult for our renters. I want to discuss several reasons for this as well as some ways to troubleshoot the challenges. Addressed in this article will be swelling, sinuses, sleep, comfort, and emotions.
Read more: What to Expect in the 1st 48 Hours After a Vitrectomy
I see these emotions, worries, questions and concerns repeating themselves as I go from home to home providing hope, encouragement, coaching, encouragement and equipment to others just like you. This article will help you take steps to reduce your anxiety.
Facedown recovery can be one of the most physically and mentally challenging parts of vitrectomy healing—but it doesn’t have to feel like wasted time. With the right mindset and a few creative ideas, you can stay engaged, uplifted, and even inspired during this important phase of recovery.
In this guide, we’ve gathered practical ways to help you pass the time, lift your spirits, and protect your mental well-being—all while staying safely in position. Whether you’re looking to stay connected, learn something new, or simply enjoy a quiet moment, we hope these suggestions offer both comfort and encouragement.
Let’s turn downtime into meaningful time—one day at a time
Read more: Ideas for Keeping 'Busy' During Facedown Recovery
Maintaining a face-down position after retinal surgery, such as a vitrectomy, is crucial for optimal healing. However, this recovery posture can make everyday activities like eating more challenging. At Retina Recovery Inc., we've gathered practical advice and meal suggestions to help you navigate this period with greater ease and comfort.
From easy-to-consume foods to strategies for setting up your eating space, our goal is to support your nutritional needs while ensuring you adhere to your recovery protocol. Explore our tips to make your face-down recovery as smooth as possible.
Preparing for a vitrectomy can be overwhelming, and it's easy to forget important questions in the midst of everything. To help you feel more confident and prepared, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of questions to ask your surgeon before and after your surgery. These essential questions, co-created with insights from ChatGPT, will guide you through the recovery process, ensuring you have all the information you need to make informed decisions and feel supported during your healing journey.
What you can or cannot do is up to you and your ophthalmalogist. We highly encourage you NOT to deviate from their instructions. They know best! We continue to see that there is a marked difference between those who follow their instructions and those who do not.
Read more: Post Eye Surgery (Facedown) Tips for Everyday Activities
Eye drops are an important part of the vitrectomy recovery process. Failure to follow these important instructions could lead to complications.
If you're preparing for a vitrectomy—especially one that requires facedown recovery—this guide is here to help. Whether your procedure is scheduled weeks in advance or comes up unexpectedly, a little planning can go a long way in making your recovery more comfortable. We've included thoughtful insights from both our team and past renters, including a practical list created by Cheryl H., who generously shared her personal experience to help others. Use what applies to your situation, and most importantly—lean on others and take it one day at a time.
At Retina Recovery Inc., we’re committed to making your rental and recovery experience as smooth, supportive, and effective as possible. Our renters consistently highlight the care, professionalism, and personal attention they receive—from high-quality equipment and timely service to compassionate guidance from someone who's been through it too. Below is a summary of what people appreciate most about their journey with us.
We’ve been there. 2014!! We know how uncertain, scary and overwhelming vitrectomy surgery can be. We were right in the middle of a bathroom renovation when Steve thought the black spot in his eye was from a splashback that jumped his safety goggles and lodged in his eye while rinsing a bucket. After a trip to the ER where the doctor could not find anything, he was referred to an ophthalmologist. Fifteen hours later he was in surgery to repair a detached retina.
"Heal Right the First-Time!"
Since 2015, Retina Recovery Inc. has been be honoured to serve thousands of renters during their facedown recovery.
Address: 29 Houndtrail Drive
Waterdown, Ontario L8B 0L9
Phone: 905-745-0412
Email: info[at]retinarecovery.ca
