Routine eye exams are extremely important. Here is a myth, 20/20 vision doesn't mean that your eyes are healthy. This renter learned in a routine eye exam that she had a macular hole despite not having any symptoms. Kudos to their optometrist who caught this. Optometrists offer the OCT scan of the eye and although it will cost you a few extra dollars, this is money well spent.
Renter: S. F. ~ Brantford
1) Why did you have vitrectomy surgery?
My Optometrist discovered a macular hole during a routine eye exam.
2) From the time of diagnosis until surgery, how long did you have to wait?
After my Optometrist referred me to the Ivey Eye Institute in London, it took about 4 weeks for me to have my surgery. However, it's important to note that being on a cancellation list means your surgery may be cancelled at any time. In fact, mine was cancelled twice before the actual date. While I would have preferred to know this possibility beforehand, I must say that the institute is great at keeping patients informed and I trusted their efforts to schedule me as soon as possible.
3) What symptoms led you to seek medical attention for your eyes?
My Optometrist discovered the hole at my annual eye exam, even though I had no symptoms.
4) What kind of hope did your ophthalmologist give you?
After meeting with the eye surgeon, I felt hopeful that my condition could be treated successfully. The information they shared assured me and gave me the confidence to trust in the process. In these situations, things can move quickly and it's crucial to pay close attention, follow directions, and rely on your eye care team. Thanks to their advanced technology and expertise, my worries were alleviated and I learned to take things one day at a time.
5) How would you describe your level of anxiety (i.e. before surgery, during your facedown recovery)?
Before my surgery, I was in shock that it had happened without any warning signs. Realizing what was ahead with the facedown recovery was overwhelming. Thankfully, I discovered Retina Recovery Inc. online and their resources helped me understand how to manage the process. To be candid, the facedown recovery was both physically and mentally challenging. However, it's crucial to remember that this is about your eyesight and following instructions for a successful outcome. The thought of my vision being restored kept me motivated during the endless days and sleepless nights. Keeping my focus on the long-term benefits helped me push through the difficult times. And eventually, the recovery did pass. Once I completed the facedown portion, I was grateful to be done and most of my anxious thoughts disappeared.
6) How would you describe your eyesight (i.e. one week after surgery, one month after surgery, three months after surgery)?
Despite the gas bubble still being present a month after the surgery, my eyesight seemed back to normal. The surgery was successful and the surgeon was delighted with the results.
7) Besides renting equipment, what one piece of advice would you give someone regarding the facedown recovery journey?
Absolutely, rent the equipment, I don't know what I would have done without the face cradle and the mirror for watching TV. It made it more comfortable and did help to pass the time. I would also encourage you to have lots of pillows on hand as you quickly feel the need to adjust your body while laying on the table.
8) What is one thing you wish you knew before you had your vitrectomy?
It would have been most beneficial for me if my eye care providers would have referred me to Retina Recovery Inc. since I had to find it on my own on the internet. I will be sharing my feedback with them.
9) Is there anything else you would like to share?
I am so thankful and grateful for the Retina Recovery Inc. team. Steve was so helpful in providing helpful information and encouraging me throughout the whole process. It is a scary thing to walk through, but with the support of this team, it eased and provided not only the equipment needed, but most importantly the timely advice and "how to" get through the ordeal. The power of knowledge and education is in overcoming and getting through the experience.
When people face this serious health concern randomly and sometimes without much notice, they provide a great service. They provide the equipment and bring comfort and support that are essential.
