Retinal Surgery Recovery Time

I have a hole in my right retina that requires surgery of putting a gas bubble in the eye which will cause the elevated retina to move back into position. I was told that the recovery process is to keep my head down, no reading, no TV, no activities other than listening for 2 1/2 weeks. Is that a common recovery time? I can't imagine being able to do that for 18 days.

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

It sound like you may have a macular hole?  If this is the case then you will need to follow the directions of your surgeon.  It is the gas bubble applying pressure in the macula that flattens out the elevated cuff of retinal tissue and reduces the size of the hole and thus reduces the size of the blind spot in  your vision.  You have to stay in the proper position so the bubble rises up properly against the back of the retina.  The surgery will not work without  proper positioning.  Do your best, talk to your surgeon.  You don't have to have the surgery.  Believe me, I've had many patients who just decided against it.  I've also had many patients go through with it and they had excellent results.  It is your call.  You have to want to do it.  It could be a lot worse - you could be in intensive care.  I think  your retinal surgeon's office needs to give you more support here,  I know there are special tables and furniture specially designed for patients going through this.  They should have a counselor to help you through.  I know the good retinal practices deal with this all the time and patients come through - no problem.  THey should have a video and pamphlets  designed to ease your concerns.

MJK MD

MJK MD

[kanan]

I had a detached retina and had the gas bubble and also had to maintain a face down position.  I did this for a month. I rented a special head rest froma Medical Supply place.  i am a very active person and also thought i would not be able to maintain this position for that length of time but i did it.  Prior to your surgery get lots of book tapes and CD's.  It really was not all thata bad.
Good luck.
kanan