Vitreoretinal Surgery FAQs

Vitreoretinal surgery treats conditions affecting the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye) and vitreous (the clear gel inside the eye) to preserve or restore vision when non-surgical treatments are not enough.

Surgery may be needed for:

• Retinal detachment
• Macular holes
• Diabetic retinopathy and its complications
• Vitreous haemorrhage
• Epiretinal membrane (ERM) or vitreomacular traction (VMT)
• Dislocated or subluxated lenses
• Complications after cataract surgery
• Symptomatic floaters

• Vitrectomy - Removing vitreous gel to treat retinal detachment, macular holes, or bleeding
• Scleral buckling - Placing a silicone band to reattach the retina
• Laser photocoagulation - Sealing retinal tears or leaking vessels
• Pneumatic retinopexy - Using a gas bubble to reposition the retina

During vitrectomy, the vitreous gel is removed and replaced with a saline solution or gas bubble. Laser or cryotherapy may be used to seal retinal tears. The procedure is typically performed under local or general anaesthetic and may take 1-2 hours depending on complexity.

Recovery varies by procedure. You may need to maintain a specific head position if a gas bubble was used. Vision recovery can take weeks to months. Follow-up appointments are essential to monitor healing. You will be given detailed post-operative instructions and eye drops.

If a gas bubble is placed in your eye, you may need to maintain a specific head position (often face-down) for several days to keep the bubble pressing against the repaired retina. This is crucial for successful healing. Special equipment can help make positioning more comfortable.

If you have a gas bubble in your eye, you must not fly until the gas has fully absorbed (typically 2-8 weeks depending on the gas type). The change in altitude can cause dangerous pressure changes in the eye. Miss Theodoraki will advise when it is safe to fly.

All surgical retina procedures are delivered by Miss Korina Theodoraki, offering consultant-led, patient-focused care in line with current UK clinical standards, with clear communication and an individualised approach.

If you notice sudden vision changes, flashes, floaters, or a shadow over your vision, contact Miss Korina Theodoraki promptly. These symptoms may indicate a retinal tear or detachment requiring urgent treatment.