Vitrectomy

Category: Eye Procedures & Tests · All eye procedures & tests

What it is

Vitrectomy is surgery inside the eye in which the gel (vitreous) is removed through tiny ports and the retina is treated directly — for example reattaching a detached retina, peeling membranes, or clearing blood that will not settle.

Why it is done

Indications include retinal detachment, vitreous haemorrhage (bleeding into the gel, often from diabetes), macular hole, wrinkling membranes on the macula (epiretinal membrane), and complications of other eye surgery.

How to prepare

You will have detailed retinal scans and examination, anaesthetic assessment (surgery may be local with sedation or general), and fasting if required. Tell the team about all medicines including blood thinners.

What happens during the procedure

Through three small ports in the white of the eye, the surgeon removes the gel, treats the retina with laser or membrane peeling, and often leaves a gas or oil bubble inside to hold the retina in place. Surgery takes one to two hours typically. The eye is padded afterwards.

Afterwards — recovery & results

Recovery depends on the condition. With a gas bubble you may need to keep your head in specific positions ('posturing') for days, vision is very blurred until the bubble absorbs over weeks, and you must not fly or go to high altitude while gas is present. With oil, a second small operation removes it later. Follow-up is close, especially in the first weeks.

Risks & considerations

Risks include infection, bleeding, retinal detachment or re-detachment, cataract development (very common after vitrectomy in natural-lens eyes), pressure problems, and the underlying condition limiting final vision. Your surgeon will give a realistic prognosis for your eye.

Frequently asked questions

Browse the V section of the A–Z list or return to the Procedures & Tests hub.