This facedown recovery account is very detailed. You'll experience the highs and the lows as they persevered from start to finish. With that said, it is all worth it when you hear, "that I must have been very good with my facedown recovery, because the outcome was very good" ... such an encourage to do what you are told to do.
From start to finish, you will experience the highs and the lows of this facedown recovery account. With that said, it is worth it when you hear, "I must have been very good with my facedown recovery, because the outcome was very good" ... such an encouragement to do as you are told.
Renter: A.D. ~ Hamilton, Ontario
1) What was the reason for your vitrectomy surgery? (macular hole, retinal detachment, diabetic retinopathy, other)
Due to a macular hole, I had vitrectomy surgery - it was quite advanced
2) How long did it take you from diagnosis to surgery?
Approximately 3-4 weeks passed from diagnosis to surgery, although I had to rebook due to a lingering cough I had from a recent cold
3) What symptoms made you visit an eye specialist (optometrist or ophthalmologist)?
The optometrist discovered a dark shadow in my eye when I had my regular checkup, so he referred me to an ophthalmologist. (Initially, I was referred to another ophthalmologist who monitored the condition for almost a year until I requested a second referral. Since the second ophthalmologist seemed concerned about how advanced the macular hole was, I was glad I requested a second referral.
4) From the time of diagnosis until surgery, how long did you have to wait?
In addition to being straightforward (which I preferred), my Ophthalmologist said that I needed to address this issue sooner rather than later to prevent loss of vision. He briefly explained the procedure to me, so I knew what I would be dealing with. However, rather than booking surgery immediately, I said I wanted to process everything and then make a decision. He respected my decision.
5) How would you describe your level of anxiety before and during your facedown recovery?
I first felt anxious when I was informed that I needed to address this issue as soon as possible. It was difficult to accept, as I didn't experience any noticeable symptoms. Nevertheless, after making the decision, I received some paperwork outlining what to expect. However, I feel there could have been more detailed information provided, particularly about post-surgery concerns. This prompted me to do some additional research online. Before my surgery date, talking with other patients in the waiting room about their positive experiences with my surgeon helped alleviate my anxiety. On the day of surgery, the staff was wonderful and kept me at ease throughout the preparation process by reminding me that I wouldn't feel a thing during the procedure. My biggest worry was not about the surgery itself but rather the thought of needles being inserted into my eye. In fact, during surgery, I even tried jokingly bribing the anesthesiologist for additional numbing medication. During the operation, I may have talked more than necessary due to nerves. However, when my surgeon arrived and began working right away, I fell asleep quickly after receiving several eye drops and only sensing slight pressure from a freezing needle before drifting off. I remember waking up in recovery and the nurse telling me I had been in the OR for about 45 minutes. I was sure it was only 10 minutes. All in all, looking back - the surgery was a piece of cake!
6) How would you describe your level of anxiety:
When I thought about the post-surgery experience, which involved a facedown recovery, I was dreading it because of all the negative things I had heard from other people. Naturally, this caused some anxiety for me. However, after speaking with Steve from Retina Recovery Inc., my worries were put to rest. He was very knowledgeable and easy to talk to. He addressed all of my concerns before coming to set up the equipment at my house and during my time in the facedown position. When he returned to pick up the equipment, we had a long conversation about the entire process. His support made all the difference and gave me confidence that I could handle it again if needed - although I hope I never have to!
Using the facedown recovery bed and recovery chair was like dealing with an unwelcome companion, but I couldn't have recovered without these essential tools. I was a dedicated patient, and even though it wasn't easy (I may have shed a few frustrated tears), I persisted with the routine and focused on the expected positive results. With all the discomfort I was enduring, I knew there had to be a worthwhile outcome. It made me wonder how older individuals cope in this situation - it must be tough. And for those who are stubborn, it would be understandable if they gave up after just a few days. However, I can imagine their recovery wouldn't be as successful as mine.
When my 7 days with the facedown procedure was over, I thought it was as if nothing had happened. Even though I felt great knowing that I had dealt with a potentially serious problem with my eyesight, I had no pain after surgery or during recovery - and I could see as well as I did before surgery.
7) How would you describe your eyesight (i.e. one week after surgery, one month after surgery, three months after surgery)?
As I recovered, I noticed the bubble in my eye diminishing greatly, only one week after surgery. It was a peculiar sight to see it move around, along with smaller bubbles (I jokingly called them Klingons), which initially concerned me until I learned they were a normal part of healing. Thankfully, they disappeared within a few days. At my one-week check-up, the doctor/fellow who examined my eyes expressed satisfaction with the closure of the hole. While I appreciated this reassurance, she didn't provide much additional information. Within two weeks, the bubble was completely gone and my vision had returned to normal.
One month after my surgery, I had a follow-up appointment with my Surgeon. He informed me that the hole in my eye was nearly closed and commended me on my diligent recovery process. He mentioned that not all patients have such positive outcomes, but fortunately, I was one of them. This news brought me great joy. Additionally, he explained that I would continue to see improvements for up to a year. In the meantime, he scheduled a cataract removal procedure with another specialist in three months, as it is common to develop cataracts after eye surgery. He assured me that it would be a simple ten-minute procedure and that he would handle the referral. Finally, I was advised to visit an optometrist in a month's time for a check-up on my vision.
Though it hasn't been three months since surgery, I do notice a bit of blotchiness on my eye, which I'm guessing is the cataract forming.
8) Besides renting equipment, what one piece of advice would you give someone regarding the facedown recovery journey?
I would recommend people, in addition to renting equipment, to seriously consider inviting a lot of company (friends and family) to visit their home. The more the better - it's a welcome distraction each time and totally takes your mind off of what you're going through...maybe even a few laughs. After all, you're not at your best but you don't really care.
As part of my preparation for recovery, I had listened to an audio book, played Sudoku, studied Spanish and lined up Netflix episodes. However, I couldn't be bothered with the reading material or the book. I did watch Netflix, but the best advice I can give is the company!! It is very lonely to be in one place for so long.
9) What is one thing you wish you knew before your vitrectomy?
Prior to surgery, I wish I had been given more detailed information about the day of the procedure - specifically, what would happen leading up to the operation and during it. In addition, I would have appreciated further explanation about the "bubble" and its transformation and disappearance, as well as why we are required to be facedown for 7 days post-surgery. Overall, the information provided by the medical team felt lacking in thoroughness. As patients, we want to be informed without being patronized. Therefore, clear and concise explanations can help alleviate anxiety and prevent our imaginations from playing tricks on us.
10) Is there anything else you would be willing to share?
I mentioned having a lot of company, and I stand by that. It was comforting to know that many friends and family and neighbours supported me and just provided unconditional comfort.
One thing that I think is very important, and can't be overstated, is having a caregiver with you most of the time. My husband was amazing - he took care of my every need, and I even took advantage of it at times when I felt like 'woe is me'. Despite being encouraging, he also reminded me to keep my head down, went with me to each appointment, shopped and cooked for me, and covered me up, even in the middle of the night when my blankets fell over.
