Post Vitrectomy - Tips for a Successful Recovery 

I’m so sorry to hear of your journey. Re: your peripheral vision loss, is this related to your retinal detachment? I met with a vision therapist today and she showed me a large how much one of her patient’s peripheral vision had improved after using light therapy. I also have watched one of my family members see an 80% improvement in their peripheral field as well. ~ Steve

How is your recovery going? ~ Steve

All the best Sergio. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Send me an email through www.retinarecovery.ca and I will send you several more resources. I won't be selling you anything so you don't need to worry about me asking. As for podcasts, what are you going to be listening to? ~ Steve

You are most welcome. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions. ~ Steve

If you have any questions, by all means ask away or email me directly at info@retinarecovery.ca . A reminder that positioning and stillness are the key.

All the best! If you have any questions, feel free to send me a note or email me at info@retinarecovery.ca

I'm checking in to see how your recovery went! Did you have the cataract removed at the same time? ~ Steve

@@Retinarecovery how is your recovery now i almost 4 months of retina surgery and then nextmonth maybe my second surgery to taking out of silicon oil but my doktor told me some part of my retina not close and they need to put another silicon to hold back my retina in position

I will never have vitreo/retinal detachment/peel and cataract surgery in one go ever again. I was told I could sleep as normal. The gas bubble disappeared in a week, which was good. I wasn't given any instructions on how to sleep, and different positions to try. Not happy about lack of info from my Doctor in the Hospital and at my 4 week appointment. I put my trust in the Doctors involved. I received no sedation and felt sick and saw everything during my surgery. etcsurgeataract surgery ever againm

You are most welcome!! Keep up the great work. I spoke with someone today who had 20:400 vision before surgery and it is now 20:40. Be encouraged as you are setting yourself up to maximize this recovery. ~ Steve 👍👍😎

That's how I spent my recovery although I had to posture 1 hr on each side of my head meaning I would lay on my left side for an hour and then on my right for an 1 hour that was for 1 week 24 hrs a day. I would set my alarm at night and swap positions. And yes YT videos helped me with my sanity!!

What a journey! Thanks for commenting on the black line. When you see something foreign in the eye it can be a little unsettling and so I'm sure it will help relieve some stress for many people. I will often remind people that visually the bubble is going down but physically it is going up in the eye because it is floating. This is due to everything being reversed in the eye. For instance, my detachment was visually seen in the 6 to 9 o'clock area of my left eye but physically the detachment was in the 12 to 3 o'clock position. All the best as you continue to recover! You know the goal as well the work required. Keep pressing on! ~ Steve

I’m having it done in a week and a half; I’m really nervous! How long until you can see out of the eye? My doc said weeks! I’m calling Monday I didn’t think about driving!

@@MelonieMartin1 hello- hope all went well❤- I’m having mine in one week- how long was your facedown for? Thank you

@@DP-xl1wv hey! My face down was supposed to be 3 days (45 mins down/15 mins up) but I was almost constantly down for 4 days - took forever for me to really wake up from the anesthesia 🤦🏽‍♀️ I just slept in the special chair! I can already see better, 2 weeks later, and the gas bubble disappeared this morning!

@@MelonieMartin1 thanks so much for the info💝

Hi Ag, I'm sorry for the slow reply as the last 24 hours have been a little crazy. First of all, thank you for sharing your experience. I know it can be scary. From my experience working with those who rent from us, those who know what they are to do and are committed to doing it SUCCEED! Reading your words I'm sure you are doing extremely well. Please be encouraged. Re: your question, part of me doesn't want to answer it because I don't want you to think this way. On the other hand, here is what is often done in Southern Ontario, CANADA. In the case of a second surgery or an extremely damaged eye, a silicone bubble is placed in the eye and positioning is the same. The difference is that the silicone has to be removed several months later. Ag, please do your best to think positively. I know firsthand through my experience how easy you can go to worry. Keep pressing on! ~ Steve

Hi Iman, Thanks for the question. The short answer is yes. I saw the odd floater during my recovery period. After almost 7 years post-surgery I still see a floater every now and again. One thing I have noticed though is that if I eliminate foods that are inflammatory then I can go days without any floaters. I'm trying to stay away from foods like wheat, canola oil and cheap non-organic coffee. I hope this helps. I want to note though that if you are see large floaters are multiple floaters it is worth getting assessed in order to rule out any other issues. All the best Iman, Steve

Thank you so much Steve. I wish they fade away with time because they are so annoying.

@@imanelkharrazi4915 My pleasure Iman. Keep pressing on! Also remember that when you can exercise increases the amount of oxygen and blood to your eyes. www.aao.org/eye-health/news/exercise-may-slow-prevent-eye-disease-study-finds - I've worked myself up to exercising at least 30 minutes a day. All the best! ~ Steve

​@@Retinarecovery❤

After surgery, how long before you could see

Hi Jason, Sorry for the delay as I was away with limited internet access. I'm unsure how to answer your question. I'm unfamiliar with the freezing method. What I do know is that each person's recovery time is different. My brother-in-law also had a retinal detachment with the same Surgeon as I did. Our recovery timelines in terms of what we could see were quite different. Patience is the key word here. Think of it as cooking from a slow cooker. It takes time and requires patience but the end result is so much better than eating food cooked from a microwave. As my wife wisely said, 'look at your recovery week to week rather than day to day.' Again, patience is the key. I know because I thought after having my vitrectomy I was going to see clearly the next day but instead I couldn't see even a glimpse a light for 4 days. Today I have 20/20 vision post-cataract surgery. Hang there! Please keep me posted. ~ Steve

Thanks for the question. I created a short for you with two possible explanations. Keep in mind though that I'm not an Ophthalmologist. I always recommend asking your Surgeon what the cause might be: ru-vid.com9rZhWyg9mmE

Every surgeon is different in their protocol. I 'm a firm believer though in being patient, still and steady. Keep pressing on and don't let your mind wander to worry. I'm trusting a great outcome for you! ~ Steve 👍

@@Retinarecovery thanks for both the video and the extra encouragement Steve. About two years ago I spent my first time in hospital, a month, getting “parts replacement” done on an organ. I learned both the importance of being a “patient patient” and also following medical instructions to the letter. This eye thing has admittedly rattled me, so I’m trying to zealously do everything I can to insure a successful outcome. It is a week now, fingers firmly crossed.

@@hgj2019 Many would say that my Surgeon's protocol was overkill. Perhaps it was overkill but I have no regrets. Incidentally, my brother-in-law also had surgery with the same surgeon and also has no regrets. Feel free to reach out at anytime. All the best as you continue the recovery! ~ Steve 😎

@@Retinarecovery Steve, just returned from a one month post surgery exam. There was one cryotherapy after the original surgery to correct two more holes. Now Doc says outcome of everything is “perfect”, clears me to “live my life”. I just wanted to thank you for your encouraging video and comments!

@@hgj2019 That is so exciting!! 👍I'm sure you are relieved. I'm trusting that this will be a great encouragement to others who drop by. Keep pressing on! Feel free to keep me updated. ~ Steve

Thanks for the question Diana. Many of our renters face a 30-60 minute drive home from surgery and then have to return the next day for their follow-up requiring them to make this trip a few more times while continuing to be facedown. In Hamilton, Ontario where I had my surgery, they will not allow someone to leave without sitting in the backseat away from the airbag. Leaning forward and holding your stomach as if you had stomach cramps is a helpful position. I also recommend taking two pillows and placing one in the lap/abdomen region and the other behind the back for a little bit of support. When you are driving, continue to communicate with your mom regarding potholes, hard breaking events etc. I found through my recovery experience that this allowed me to do my best to relax for the trip. I hope this helps. If you have other questions, feel free to reply here, email me at info@retinarecovery.ca or Call me at 905-745-0412. All the best! You are a VERY IMPORTANT person in your Mom's recovery. ~ Steve

Hi Ree, How did things go today? I know your concern firsthand. I created a short video for you here: ru-vid.comIZyk1cT-XtE?si=xmICvY9zkTsWvYE7 Please keep in touch. I will respond as quick as I can. ~ Steve

Hi Lou Lou, These is a great question to ask your surgeon. They are generally understanding and will help you maximize your recovery. This may mean putting in a silicone bubble instead of a gas bubble. It may also mean a different recovery position. Again, make sure you let your surgeon guide your recovery. All the best, Steve

All the best Kassandra. I know this can be incredibly unnerving. If you have any questions, feel free to email me at info@retinarecovery.ca. ~ Steve

Just got my 2nd. First was gas. Second oil

Hows ur vision?

@@amritbedi9777 my vision is actually really great now and probably the best it’s ever been.

@@katspajamas oh! Nice to hear this god bless you! My story: in 2014 suddenly i lost my left eye bottom right vision while watching tv. When i get it checked doc said ur optic nerve has stopped sending singal to ur eye. N later on my retina got detached.. in 2023 feb just got my (retina oil vitrectomy) surgery done.. now its been 5 days.. i see only 20% improvement.. My question is..? Will it be better?????..

Hi Sam, sorry for the slow reply. Although I want to say you are good to go back to wearing your contact lenses, fitness activities and flying and I am unsure. I'm in a little bit of a learning curve again. For the first 7 years of our business these were not allowed until the 8-10 week mark. Part of the reasoning was that a long acting gas was used rather than a short acting (2 week) gas. I'll see what I can find out this week from my Ophthalmologist's office. Re: Flying - Restrictions were given due to the expansion and contraction of the bubble. If you were to fly with the bubble you could be in excruciating pain as it expands. With everything said, you're at the 4 to 5 week mark now. I would continue to try to reach out to your Surgeon as well as waiting a little bit longer. This approach provides little regret although it is extremely hard when you feel well. Thanks again for the comment. Your experience and questions definitely help others. ~ Steve

@@Retinarecovery many thanks for your answers. I have a very bad relationship with my surgeon. I have to find another. I live in Brussels and I'm 29 years old. I have a big problem is that my vision is much smaller with the operated eye. a nurse told me it takes a year but I don't really believe it. do you have an opinion?

@@sampeace9066 I'm sorry about your relationship with your surgeon. This obviously doesn't help in the process. Re: Vision in the operated eye - What do you mean that it is smaller? Are there shadows or is it being blocked in some way. Re: Recovery Length In our area of Canada we are also told that vision can take up to a year to stabilize. WIth that said though, I had a cataract develop within 3 months after surgery. With my surgery eye, I was unable to see the big letter E on the eye chart. My wife has wisely said, look at your recovery from week to week rather than day to day. Thanks again Sam for the interaction. I'm stuck at home right now due to an ice storm we are getting. This will hopefully allow me to get you answers re: exercise once the gas bubble is gone. I'll be in touch, Steve

I just emailed my ophthalmologist's office. ~ Steve

For the first four days after surgery, I was unable to see anything. It was only on the fourth morning that I could see a little bit of light. This isn't normal and even after 8 years of watching people recover I rarely hear of this. The simple explanation for my experience was blood in my eye blocking my vision. As for your experience, I would definitely get it checked out today. You need the peace of mind. I know personally how the mind can go places. If there is an issue it may be addressed simply be a laser. Please keep me posted. All the best as you journey through this. ~ Steve

I'm so sorry for the delay in responding. I saw the notification but then there appeared to be nothing to reply to. I can understand your father's anxiousness. I don't have much experience in knowing what our patient's experience when the oil bubble is removed. What I do know is that the oil is used in surgery when there is a substantial amount of 'damage' in the retina OR when the retina continues to lift. As for the cataract replacement, it should be very clear. Is it possible that the lens of the cataract has clouded over? This is called PCO for short and requires a 'clean-up' procedure from the Ophthalmologist. Let me know what you find out. Again, my deepest apologies for the delay. ~ Steve

Hi Kevin, sorry for the delay in responding. Every Surgeon/Ophthalmologist has a different protocol and it is important to follow that protocol. The tips presented come from my personal experience and filtering through 4000+ rentals. There are themes to successful recoveries and themes to repeat business ... something I don't want because success has been achieved. ** Note: the protocol recommendations don't necessarily apply to someone having oil put in their eye. In that case, there are few restrictions after the required facedown time. With that said here are some observations/thoughts: 1) Little movement was highly stressed by my ophthalmologist during my recovery in 2014. He was horrified that I was walking around the block. This definitely scared me. There are some ophthalmologists that only require a couple of weeks of little activity. 2) We all heal differently and and the amount of damage in the eye is definitely different. Our recovery timelines definitely differ. I see the protocols from about 10+ different ophthalmologists and they are all different. 3) Ninety percent of repeats I see, I feel they are stressing their bodies too much. (i.e. walking dogs that are pulling on them, gardening, lots of bending from the waist, lifting groceries ... I have a story every one of these individuals). 4) When it comes to macular hole recoveries, I know the Mayo Clinic says you don't need to be facedown. The response I have heard from one Ophthalmologist in my area is "it works for some, not all, we don't know why and so we aren't going to do it." I appreciate the question Kevin and will do some more digging from end to provide you with documentation rather than anecdotal evidence. ** Disclaimer: I am not a Doctor, Ophthalmologist or Nutritionist. It is always important to follow the protocol set out by your attending Ophthalmologist. Thanks again, Steve

I was doing some more digging and here is a summary of some reasons why being still is advised after a vitrectomy, especially if you have a gas bubble: 1) Facilitates Gas Tamponade 2) Minimizes Stress on the Eye 3) Promotes Proper Healing, and 4) Enhances Surgical Outcomes I'll have to dig into PubMed and other publications to find more info.

Hi Rich, Sorry for the delay in responding as it is our Canadian Thanksgiving weekend. Re: the curve in the glasses - I've never heard this before but I'm left to wonder if there is an issue with the prescription. Could this also be caused by the thickness of your prescription lenses? Please keep me posted on what you find out. ~ Steve

Hi Tetty, Thanks for your kind words. Of those who I have had contact with regarding the removal of the silicone, there isn't any pain involved. My one word of advice though is to ensure you don't go back to 'regular' life too soon. Allow your eye to adjust to the change. All the best! I'm so thankful we have skilled surgeon's to help us on this journey.

@@Retinarecovery Ahhh I'm glad reading your explanation 😂I'm so scared of needle and pain... Hmmm ok so do you think like 1 month needed to adjust after removal? And is there any kind of special food to avoid or to support during the healing after removal? Yeah I'm so happy too we are helped by the good surgeons support us.. Thanks for your quick reply Steve coz I need it 😁

@@tettyontiur8455 We keep learning from every renter as we are all so different and all have different challenges. Most times a facedown protocol is not needed with the silicone removal. As for food, I was advised by my bio-molecular nutritionist to avoid sugar. I have also eliminated wheat from my diet as they are inflammatory 'foods'. I keep making small changes over time in an effort to strengthen the health of my eyes. Keep pressing on on Tetty. ~ Steve

@@Retinarecovery Thank you Steve you explain to me clearly and give me strength to face this journey 😂

@@tettyontiur8455 My pleasure. We are all in this together! Keep pressing on. ~ Steve

Hi Dave, Thanks for the question. First, facedown recovery is not always required. Every surgeon has a slightly different protocol that varies in the number of days and the amount of time throughout the day. I'm not sure what percentage might be in another position as they only call us when required to be facedown. As for being immobilized, you are generally to be facedown for 80% of the time. This equals a 5-10 minute break/hour although this too varies between some surgeons. Having had surgery myself I always went the extra mile as I was scared of losing my vision. I hope this helps. ~ Steve

I had a Vitrectomy and didn't need the gas bubble because I had no retina detachment. So I didn't need to be face down.

@@ReallyRick i also had vicretomy my retina didn't detach bt some fluid back of my retina i have gas bubble

It is torture. I've given up. I'll loose sight in my eye before I lay face down again

Hi Alberto, I'm so sorry for the delay. I just saw your comment. I'm wondering how you are doing? ~ Steve

Retina Recovery Inc. Precisly today i was with retinologgyst he Advises me to remove silicon after 8 months , aditionally recommends intraocular len, what do you think ?

@@albertomorales8441 Thanks for the update Alberto. Most people that have the silicon do get it removed. It is only in rare cases when I hear of someone being told to keep it in. My first recommendation is to take it extremely easy after this procedure. Secondly, I would recommend, the cataract surgery. I've had both eyes done. Again, I recommend taking it easy after the procedure. If your surgeon says one week of no lifting, make it two. Stay in touch & all the best, Steve

Retina Recovery Inc. Thank you 👍

Hi @Fazoh, I'm so sorry for the confusion that you are facing. From my understanding and from working with our renters over the last 6 years, I have only had one person that I can remember that was told to sleep on their back. Depending on the Surgeon, the majority of the time our renters are facedown 80% of the time. Once they are done their facedown time they are allowed to sleep on their sides. I wish I could be more concrete in providing an answer. I guess the biggest question to ask your Surgeon is what is best for your recovery. ~ Steve

Thanks for the question Lenny. My surgeon didn't even want me walking much until the 10 week mark. I do know other surgeon's who allow people to go back to life a lot sooner than I'm personally comfortable. Two things to keep in mind, 1) I went through a 10 week recovery, and 2) I run a business assisting people through their recovery. I know I have absolutely no regrets with waiting for 10 weeks which I stretched to 12 weeks. Secondly, in my observation, you increase your chances of a repeat surgery by jumping back into life too soon. I've seen repeat rentals from people shovelling snow, walking an aggressive dog, and even the lifting required in grocery shopping. To me basketball would definitely be on the NO list with the risk of being hit in the head. I never want to see repeat business and always steer our renters to caution over potential chaos because of an issue arising from the too-soon activity. I know how tough it is to wait a little longer. You are no doubt feeling really good and rested and yet you've been told to wait. These two worlds definitely collide. Hang in there! I can confidently say that it is worth it. ~ Steve

Thanks so much for the question. First, I'm not an Ophthalmologist. Secondly, every person's situation is different. ## My Story Here is a little of my story. I was required to do little for 2 months at which time I was able to resume regular activities. For my peace of mind I extended this another two weeks. Because 12 weeks post surgery took me to about October (mid-fall in Canada) and cycling was my thing I really didn't start pushing myself for several more months when the weather outside began improving. I really found that I needed the peace of mind. ## Recommendations In regards to playing soccer/football, I would definitely get clearance from your Ophthalmologist. Be sure to ask him not only when it is safe to return but his recommendation regarding headers etc. Healing Time: Recovery times can vary, but typically, it may take several weeks to months for the eye to heal fully. Be patient and allow your eye to recover properly. I would dig into learning more about what you can do to support your eye health. I would check out Claudia @HolisticVisionCoach for some great info. Yesterday (October 19, 2023) she interviewed an expert in the area of DHA and its benefit to both the brain but eye health. I continue to learn so much from her. Avoid Head Injuries: High-impact sports like football or soccer carry a risk of head injuries, which can be especially concerning after eye surgery. It is crucial to protect your eyes from any form of impact, including those caused by accidental collisions or headers. Eye Protection: It's essential to use appropriate eye protection, such as sports goggles or a face shield, to safeguard your eyes during play. Getting poked in the eye can happen so quickly. All the best and thanks again for the question. ~ Steve

Thanks for the heads up. It's on my list of edits.

Your double vision is not something that I have had others describe after their surgery. I know that when someone has cataract or laser surgery this is something that can happen in some cases. Sorry that I am unable to help answer your question. ~ Steve

Sorry for the delay. Thank you for your kind words. Your friends are an important key to allowing you to do what you are supposed to do. Any meal prep that you can take care of beforehand will definitely help. Keep your meals as simple and as light as possible. Try not to complicate things. As for eye drops, let me put together a short video with a potential solution.

Here are a couple of ideas regarding administering your own eye drops: ru-vid.commdUw7Ea9O9o?si=cpYzrbzI28E7edVH

@@Retinarecovery a video of how to take eye drops would be wonderful! I have a feeling most of my activity will be from my massage chair to my bed or to the bathroom. I've been experimenting walking around with my head down and it is NOT fun! I plan to be well-behaved. I want this thing to go well.

Hi Richard, when was your surgery and do you see a black line across the horizon of your eyesight? ~ Steve

Hi Juliet, I’m so sorry for the delay in responding. First, it is always up to your Ophthalmologist. Generally you are good to fly when the gas bubble is fully gone. Because the bubble expands and contracts you don’t want to be flying or traveling in high altitudes as doing so would cause excruciating pain. I hope this helps provide some direction. All the best, Steve

Thanks for the question Sean. I would recommend that you always double-check with your ophthalmologist. With that said, as the bubble slowly disappears, you will see a black line at the top of your eye. This is the surface of the bubble and it will gradually get lower. Keep in mind that although you are watching the bubble getting lower in your eye, it is floating. What is visually at 12 o'clock is physically at 6 o'clock. If you are seeing a big blob, hundreds or floaters, or flashes of light, it is definitely important to get checked out immediately. From the sounds of it though, the new spot may be the edge of the bubble. Please keep me posted after you learn more from your ophthalmologist. ~ Steve

I still have the gas bubble after 13 months!

Thanks for the question Kurt. It really depends on the damage that was in your eye and the comfort level of your ophthalmologist. In my case, I wasn’t allowed to walk any farther than a couple hundred metres until about week eight. On the other hand, I have renters who are allowed to walk for 5 to 10 minutes after just two weeks post surgery. My peace of mind though is allowing your eye to heal for at least four weeks and being careful about raising your heart rate too high and thus your blood pressure and your eye pressure. Make sure to follow your ophthalmologist instructions. As my disclaimer, I’m not an ophthalmologist or a surgeon. Please update me as to what your surgeon says. All the best. ~ Steve

I’ll let you know. I see the doctor this week. I do not have any symptoms other than brief flashes of light when I blink occasionally. Dr said he would see me this week. I only ask as I lead a pretty active lifestyle and whim I am willing to make some sacrifices I do not want to give it all up completely.

@@kurtmccathron3781 He may be able to laser your eye if needed. If that is the case that would be great. Well done on following up on your symptoms.

Thanks Brian for that reminder. For those that are required to be facedown, I'm a firm believer in having watched almost 4000 people go through surgery now that there are themes to a successful recovery. In the end though, following the Ophthalmologist's protocol is the most important. As for your vitrectomys, were they related to floater removals, macular holes or other? Thanks again for the comment, Steve

Hi @gabby1157, Thank you for the question. I want to note that I am not a doctor. I share from my experience and the experience of others. Unfortunately, I do not have an answer for you however, I'm curious on how long you had the silicone oil in your eye? Knowing the answer may help provide some insight. ~ Steve

@Retinarecovery i had the silicone oil in my eye for at least 3 yrs. It was months before the pandemic when i got it surgery for my retinal detachment. Hence the height of covid-19, It is only now that I got my silicone oil removed.

@@gabby1157 Thanks for the extra info. Peace of mind is definitely important. I would definitely get it checked out. Please keep me posted. I'm cheering you on. I definitely know what it's like to walk this journey. ~ Steve

@Retinarecovery im going back to the doctor this weekend. Btw, i got another question... is it normal if you see flashes even after you got your silicone oil removed?

@@gabby1157 Flashes normally indicating that there is some pulling of the retina going on. It may not mean anything but it is worth getting checked ASAP. If I was in your position I would contact them today and tell them about your situation and what you are seeing and not seeing.

Do you have a macular hole or a retinal detachment?

@@Retinarecoveryretinal detachment

Thanks for the update. In our caring for people post-surgery, most people are required to be facedown between 7 and 10 days. I do know some ophthalmologists, who depending on the location of the damage, do not require the facedown protocol. The general rule of thumb is 5-10 minutes of breaks every hour and to ensure you are getting some body movement in order to avoid potential blood clots. In my case, I was 10 days facedown and have no regrets 10 years later. Does that help answer your question, Steve

@@Retinarecoverythank you! My doctor only said to position on my left side. Nothing about the facedown position!!!! Have a nice weekend!

@@ln8116 I know one ophthalmologist that will allow side positioning unless the detachment is in the 2 or 8 o’clock positions. Keep pressing on! Feel free to reach out anytime. ~ Steve

I'm sorry to hear of your struggles. I would continue to have your ophthalmologist monitor your recovery to see what might be done. With that said, do you have a cataract that is developing? ~ Steve

Retina Recovery Inc. IDK. I have a follow up appt in 9 days. I will have them check for a cataract. Thanks for your response.

@@sdennis2768 For the peace of mind, you may want to touch base with them an see if you can get in earlier. It can be really easy to worry when you don't have answers. All the best.

Retina Recovery Inc. thanks for your response & advice.

@@Retinarecovery already 6 weeks still vision not clear

Hi Sean, When I came out of surgery they told me to follow the protocol so I didn't have to repeat the surgery. I was required to do nothing for 10 weeks. I suspect that they don't want you to return to work immediately. Every ophthalmologist is different but in watching several thousand of our renters recover, I ALWAYS suggest not rushing things. We all heal differently. We all have different starting points. Just this past week, I read that even with cataract surgery we don't heal fully up until about 8 weeks post-surgery. Despite this fact, we are told we can go back to regular life a week later. Stay positive! I know this is a mind-battle when you have lots of time to think. Reach out anytime. All the best, Steve

@@Retinarecovery thank you for that

@@Retinarecovery my life is a mind battle LOL

@@seandarke1892 Soundtracks by Jon Acuff - Highly Recommended book! :)

I'm so sorry for the delay in responding. From time to time you may experience the main bubble "giving birth" to little tiny 'mini-bubbles" as you have observed. As for the original bubble looking bigger, I have never had feedback regarding that. As I'm not a surgeon it might be worth a phone call to their office. What some people will comment on is feeling as if the bubble provides magnifies everything they look at. Your comment about your eye "misjudging it" may well be accurate. As you have an opportunity feel free to update me. All the best! ~ Steve

@@Retinarecovery it’s ok. I promise! Thank you so much! Today it’s much smaller. So I was indeed misjudging it. Thank you again 😊

@@TvwithTray Thanks! The slow progress and the tendency to worry during the progress don't go well together. I'm glad you are progressing. Keep pressing on! ~ Steve

I am on week 5 with bubble half way down. How did you come out? Can you see OK? I was told big bubbles are ok many small bubbles not OK.

@@225rip Yes, I can see OK. I was 6.5 weeks before the bubble disappeared. I have had people who smoke who are sometimes as long as 10 and 11 weeks. I think it depends on how our system is functioning. Thanks for the update on the number of bubbles. I'm left wondering the definition of "many bubbles". Are they talking more than 100 or are a few tiny bubbles OK? I would agree if one is seeing hundreds of little bubbles their might be an issue. ~ Steve

Hi Steve, I was exactly 6.5 weeks. From my experience either a short acting or long acting gas is used. We both had the long acting gas. I've had several people go much longer than me. How is your eyesight now? ~ Steve

I just received an email from one of our renters who said that their bubble disappeared after 9 weeks. Keep pressing on! ~ Steve

My left eye that the procedure was done on is still very blurry. During the day I can function normal with some adjustments, but try not to drive at night. Should you expect your eye to never get any better after several months?

@@stevehicks399 Have you had cataract surgery yet?

@@Retinarecovery Praying 🙏 I won't need cataract surgery. What are the symptoms?

I’m so so sorry for the way you are feeling. This is so much a mental exercise and not just a physical one. Do what you can. What have you been trying and what are your resources? Distraction is a great help. Listen to some music from better days. Please reach out anytime. I’m cheering you on. ~ Steve

@@Retinarecovery thanks so much. it's been tough... I had a lymph node removed in my neck a few weeks ago. Two weeks later...I had my retina detachment surgery. So..while I still have stitches in my neck...this. I'm usually a very busy person..all this laying around...face down. Not part of my life. it's like a black hole... hubby is here..but works everyday until 4.. it's just lonely...depressing. torture. I've been listening to books on yt and some channels..but I just want to get up and do stuff...

Hi Victor, I wanted to touch base as it appears your first comment did not post correctly. ~ Steve

Hi Jean, Sorry to hear of your journey. Every surgeon has a different protocol and so it is important to follow your surgeon's protocol. In my case and in the area that I live most surgeon's lean toward caution before returning to 'regular' life. They want to eliminate as much risk as possible and allow your eye to heal properly. As you know, this is a recovery that can be difficult. It's been almost 8 years since my vitrectomy. Challenging? YES. Worth it? Absolutely. Hang in there, Steve

@@Retinarecovery Did you get cataracts from the vitrectomy? My doctor does not like this surgery for floaters because of this outcome.

@@drewdrew7968 Sorry for the delay. Yes, my cataract developed very quickly. Within 3 months post-surgery I couldn't see the big letter E on the eye chart. In my 8 years of assisting people in their facedown recovery, I have only ever had 2 people not develop a cataract. If someone has already had cataract surgery it is not required again. As a side note, I've found this book from Dr. Marc Grossman to be incredibly helpful for anyone trying to address eye issues through natural means (Amazon.ca link - no referral link involved - you can also look up "Natural Eye Care"): a.co/d/4qoEeiO Thanks for the question, Steve

Did you have a retinal detachment or a macular hole repaired? ~ Steve

@@Retinarecovery I dono bt my condition was a fluid behind my retina they said some fluid leakage in ur retina firstly they did focal lazer for few days it was ok again i started seeing waviness then they did this surgery sir

@@shashankgm9556 My assumption is that you are seeing the top part of the gas bubble inserted in your eye. Often, they remove the fluid, lay the retina back down and then place a bubble in your eye to hold the retina in place. The gas placed in my eye remained there for 6.5 weeks. As always, when concerned always contact your Surgeon's office. ~ Steve

It is indeed a journey. Mental distraction is so important. My youngest renter was 6 years old and said the same thing at 5 days. In her case, she was able to play Polly Pockets with her sisters. Hang in there, keep remembering the goal! ~ Steve

How’s are you doing now? Did the bubble dissolve is your sight better? I’m having this done next week already had a scleral buckle done 2 months ago but now bed vitrectomy to remove excess debri and fluid.

@@kicksalot9943 4 surgeries in. PVD and lens removed on august 8, silicone oil. Been a nightmare for me. Going on 5 months out of work.