We all want a successful recovery from a Vitrectomy. It can be a scary experience. We are beginning to compile a list of stories to help you see that a successful recovery is possible.
Remember, that this is a journey and that quick success is not a reasonable expectation. Remember the goal and follow the protocol for optimal success!
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Retina Recovery Inc. wouldn’t exist if it weren’t for Steve’s unexpected journey through emergency surgery for a retinal detachment in 2014. He’s incredibly thankful for the care he received, the support that surrounded him, and the expertise of Dr. Varun Chaudhary, his ophthalmologist at the Hamilton Regional Eye Institute.
Now, Steve is excited to share his facedown recovery story with you. It’s a journey filled with highs, lows, and character-building experiences that he and his wife walked through together.
We’ve been there. We understand how uncertain, scary, and overwhelming vitrectomy surgery can be.
In the middle of a bathroom renovation, Steve noticed a black spot in his eye. Initially, he thought it was a splash back that jumped his safety goggles and lodged in his eye while rinsing a bucket. After a trip to the ER and no clear answers, Steve was referred to an ophthalmologist. Just 15 hours later, he was in surgery to repair his detached retina.
At that time, Steve knew nothing about retina surgery—nor the need for facedown recovery. Upon leaving the recovery room, the nurse repeatedly stressed the importance of staying facedown and recommended we rent the necessary equipment. After a frustrating search, we found that the only available option was a chair located 1.5 hours away.
Though we were fortunate enough to find what we needed, we quickly realized a huge gap in the market—there was a serious need for reliable rental equipment for vitrectomy recovery. We’ve met others who struggled through sleepless, uncomfortable recoveries because they lacked the right equipment, or who had to undergo surgery again due to improper positioning.
Retina Recovery Inc. was born out of our experience, and we are pleased to offer the equipment and support you need to help you heal effectively.
As I work with renters of our facedown recovery equipment I get many questions regarding the timeline of my vitrectomy recovery from the retinal detachment. Keep in mind that this is my experience with my surgeon. Learn more about my recovery journey.
We’ve been there. We know how uncertain, scary and overwhelming vitrectomy surgery can be. The diagnosis of a retinal detachment was more than unsettling but following the recovery protocol was OH SO WORTH IT.
Tracy, my (Steve) caregiver, wife and best friend begins her blog describing to our friends, family and web business clients our facedown recovery journey from my retinal detachment.
There is so much we know now that we can relay to our renters about what to expect when recovering from eye surgery. This is a physical and emotional experience for everyone.
Recovering from a Retinal Detachment is unique experience. We all start at a different spot due to different levels of eye damage. As a result, we all heal a different rates of speed. Recovery is a process involving patience and perseverance.
The facedown recovery journey is a character building exercise. Using the analogy of cooking, the recovery is much like cooking with a slow cooker and not a microwave; it takes time but is so worth it.
One month into recovery I had my one month appointment. Walking into those appointments you hold your breath hoping you are going to hear words the encourage you rather than deflate you. There was celebration to be had BUT ... (Steve)
Life still goes on while you recovery from retinal surgery. We were honoured to have so many people fill in the gaps that I normally would have filled. We definitely needed that since the bathroom reno I started, I couldn't finish. (Steve)
The support of family, friends and neighbours is critical for success. My support network helped me keep on track, encouraging me when I needed it most and taking care of regular daily activities that I would normally have completed myself. (Steve)
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.
Read more: Post Eye Surgery (Facedown) Tips for Everyday Activities
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