

This insures that the gas or oil is able to float upwards, toward the back of the eye, for proper healing of the retina. If either substance is placed in the eye, you will most likely be required to lay face down (prone) for several days. Your surgeon will discuss with you whether silicone oil or a gas bubble is most suitable. It has to be removed from the eye after several months, with a second operation. While the bubble is present, patients are not permitted to travel by air or go to high altitudes, as changes in air pressure may cause the bubble to expand, increasing pressure inside the eye.Ĭonversely, when Silicone Oil is used, the eye is unable to absorb it on its own. This gas may stay in the eye for up to eight weeks. The gas bubble is gradually absorbed and is replaced by the eye’s own fluid. In some cases, a gas or silicone oil bubble is placed in the eye. The body replaces the saline with its own fluid within a few days. The third incision is used to infuse a saline solution into the eye as the vitreous gel is removed. The second incision is used to remove the vitreous gel with a miniature handheld cutting device. The first incision is used to introduce a fiberoptic light to illuminate the inside of the eye. Instruments are placed in three tiny incisions near the front of the eye. The lack of vitreous gel does not affect the functioning of the eye. This procedure requires the removal of the liquid gel, located in the back of the eye, called the vitreous. Vitrectomy surgery is performed to repair many diseases that affect the back of the eye including the retina, vitreous and macula. Retina Surgery What Is Retina Surgery (Vitrectomy)?
