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.
Helping You See It Through—One Step at a Time
As a provider of vitrectomy recovery equipment across Ontario, we’re honoured to support you on your journey to restored vision. With each rental we fulfill, we’re reminded of a powerful truth: even when recovery looks uncertain, patients consistently rise to the challenge and achieve incredible results.
Video: Post Vitrectomy - Tips for a Successful Recovery
Video Transcript
Click to expand the transcript
Hi, I’m Steve from Retina Recovery. In this video, I want to explain some practical tips for maximizing your recovery from retinal detachment or macular hole surgery.
First and foremost is your attitude and approach. If you want to maximize your sight, you need to do everything you possibly can to maintain the position your surgeon has instructed you to be in, and to limit movement as much as possible. This helps keep the gas bubble still so it doesn’t move around inside your eye.
Pillows are critical for your personal comfort. You will likely need to adjust them every 30 minutes to an hour. Adding or subtracting even an inch of padding can make a big difference—whether that’s pillows or rolled towels in front of your shoulders to lift them slightly, a pillow under your hips, or a pillow in front of your ankles for support.
Perseverance is also key. There will be good hours and tough hours in your recovery. I found that around 12:00 to 1:00 each day, I would feel stir-crazy and want to get up and walk around. But remember, every time you move, the bubble moves in your eye. Your goal is to keep it as still and steady as possible so that at your next appointment, your surgeon is pleased with your progress. Your attitude and mindset will make a huge difference in your ability to persevere.
Finally, consider your strategy for your facedown time. How will you stay occupied while still maintaining your position? When we rent equipment, we provide a facedown mirror that allows you to look at the floor but still see forward. I didn’t have that during my recovery.
Most importantly, follow your surgeon’s instructions and be specific with your questions. Your surgeon wants you to succeed. Ask things like: Are you allowed to watch an iPad or look at your phone? How much reading are you allowed to do?
Personally, I listened to podcasts, radio programs, and music throughout the night, because your sleep will likely be different during recovery since you aren’t expending much energy.
I hope you found this helpful, and I trust that your recovery will exceed what you expected going in.
6 Steps to Successful Eye Surgery
Over time, we’ve noticed a consistent pattern in those who experience successful recoveries. We'd like to share a few keys that can make all the difference—based on both personal experience and countless renter stories. Keep in mind that this list is incomplete but at least it gives you some ideas of what you can do.
1) Attitude – You’ve got this.
Yes, the recovery process can feel long and at times discouraging—but it's absolutely worth it. I’ve been through it myself. A hopeful mindset and a willingness to trust the process go a long way.
2) Proper Positioning – Every moment matters.
Staying in the correct posture is critical. For me, that meant limiting movement entirely—even walking around the block was off-limits per my surgeon. I followed the guidelines for the full 10 weeks and never wanted to look back wondering if I had done too much, too soon.
Most renters find that having two pieces of equipment—a Facedown Recovery Chair and a Facedown Recovery Bed—helps them change positions while maintaining posture compliance. When you’re properly supported, you can rest with confidence, knowing you’re doing your part for a successful outcome.
3) Pillows – Comfort is an art.
Don’t be surprised if it takes a couple of days to find the right pillow setup. What works for two hours might not work for three. Keep rotating and adjusting to avoid pressure points and keep yourself as comfortable as possible.
4) Patience – Healing takes time.
I expected to see clearly the day after surgery. In reality, it was over a week before I could make out light or movement. Some renters see very little even after 10 days—yet when I’ve checked in with them weeks later, they’re smiling, vision restored. Give your eyes the time they need.
5) Perseverance – Your vision is worth the effort.
This recovery builds character. Take it one day at a time. I used to tell myself, “Every day I commit to staying in position is 10% of the way there.” Hang in there—you're doing something incredibly important.
6) Strategy for Your Time – Make the most of each day.
If you’re looking for creative ways to pass the time during recovery, we’ve put together a few ideas in this link You may be limited physically, but you can still stay mentally and spiritually engaged.
All the best in your recovery. We’re here to help every step of the way.
