English 
Vitreoretinal Surgery (Vitrectomy)
The retina is a light-sensitive tissue that covers the back wall of the eye and enables vision. The vitreous is a transparent, jelly-like substance that fills the space between the retina and the lens of the eye. The retina and vitreous are vital to healthy vision.
Vitreoretinal surgery is a highly delicate operation performed using advanced microsurgical techniques. It is performed in cases such as retinal detachment (separation of the retina), macular hole, haemorrhages associated with diabetic retinopathy, vitreous haemorrhage, and removal of foreign bodies from the eye. During the operation, the vitreous is removed, the retina is reattached, and the necessary repairs are made. Gas or silicone oil may be injected into the eye after the operation. The aim of treatment is to halt vision loss and, if possible, restore vision.
Patients should pay attention to their head position after surgery and avoid sudden movements and heavy lifting. The recovery process varies depending on the type of disease and the extent of retinal damage.
What Is Vitreoretinal Surgery (Vitrectomy)?
Vitreoretinal surgery, medically known as vitrectomy, is an advanced microsurgical procedure performed to treat disorders of the retina and vitreous, the clear gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye. During the surgery, the vitreous is partially or completely removed and replaced with a saline solution, gas, or silicone oil, allowing the surgeon direct access to the retina. This procedure restores and preserves vision in conditions that cannot be treated with medications or laser therapy alone.
Vitrectomy has become a cornerstone of modern ophthalmology. Thanks to innovations in microsurgery and advanced visualization systems, it is now safer, less invasive, and more effective, with shorter recovery times and higher success rates.
Why Is Vitreoretinal Surgery (Vitrectomy) Performed?
Vitrectomy is performed when the retina or vitreous develops a condition that threatens vision. The main purposes of the procedure are:
- To restore sight by repairing retinal detachment or removing scar tissue.
- To clear visual obstruction caused by vitreous hemorrhage (bleeding inside the eye).
- To treat macular diseases such as macular hole or epiretinal membrane.
- To address complications of diabetes, trauma, or previous eye surgeries.
- To remove foreign bodies or infections inside the eye.
Without vitrectomy, many of these conditions would progress to permanent vision loss.
How Is Vitreoretinal Surgery (Vitrectomy) Performed?
Vitrectomy is a delicate procedure carried out in a hospital or specialized eye surgery center under local or general anesthesia. The general steps include:
Anesthesia – Local anesthesia is most common, but general anesthesia may be used for complex cases or children.
Small incisions – Tiny openings are made in the sclera (white of the eye).
Removal of vitreous gel – The surgeon uses fine instruments to cut and remove the vitreous.
Retinal repair – Depending on the condition, laser treatment, membrane peeling, or retinal reattachment may be performed.
Replacement material – The removed vitreous is replaced with a saline solution, air, gas bubble, or silicone oil to support the retina.
The surgery usually takes 1–2 hours and is performed under a microscope with high-precision instruments.
Which Conditions Require Vitreoretinal Surgery (Vitrectomy)?
Vitrectomy is indicated in several sight-threatening conditions, including:
- Retinal detachment – When the retina peels away from its normal position.
- Vitreous hemorrhage – Bleeding inside the eye that obscures vision.
- Macular hole – A small opening in the macula that causes central vision loss.
- Epiretinal membrane – Scar tissue on the retina causing distortion.
- Diabetic retinopathy – Advanced stages with bleeding or scar tissue.
- Endophthalmitis – Severe eye infections requiring urgent surgery.
- Eye trauma – Removal of foreign bodies or repair of retinal damage.
Recovery After Vitreoretinal Surgery (Vitrectomy)
Recovery depends on the complexity of the surgery and the patient’s overall health. Common aspects of recovery include:
- Initial healing – Mild discomfort, redness, and blurred vision are common for the first few days.
- Positioning – If a gas bubble is used, patients may need to maintain a face-down position to support healing.
- Vision improvement – Vision often improves gradually over weeks to months, depending on the condition treated.
- Medication – Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- Follow-up visits – Regular check-ups ensure proper healing and detect complications early.
Most patients return to normal activities in 2–4 weeks, but full visual recovery may take several months.
Post-Operative Care: What to Watch Out For
After vitrectomy, patients must carefully follow medical advice to avoid complications:
- Do not rub or press the operated eye.
- Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities until cleared by your doctor.
- Use prescribed eye drops regularly.
- Do not fly or travel to high altitudes if a gas bubble was placed, until your doctor confirms it is safe.
- Report any sudden pain, redness, vision loss, or flashes of light immediately.
Strict adherence to these instructions significantly improves surgical outcomes.
A corneal transplant is a surgical procedure in which a damaged or diseased cornea is replaced with a healthy donor cornea to restore clear vision.
The Journey of Vitreoretinal Surgery in Turkey
Initial Consultation
Travel and Accommodation
Procedure
Post-Operative Care
Discover Turkey While Regaining Your Vision
Vitreoretinal Surgery (Vitrectomy) FAQs
Answers to the most common patient questions about vitrectomy, its risks, recovery, and long-term success.