OphthalmologyRetina

Pneumatic Retinopexy

Also known as: gas bubble eye procedure, pneumatic retinal repair, PR procedure, retina gas injection, in-office retina repair, retinopexy

A quick gas-bubble procedure for selected, simpler retinal detachments

Last Updated: October 31, 2026

Surgery Type

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Implant Type

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What happens in this surgery?

The eye is numbed with local anaesthetic drops or injection
The tear is sealed with a freezing probe on the eye surface
A small gas bubble is injected into the eye with a fine needle
Head positioning keeps the bubble pressed against the tear
The gas absorbs naturally over the following weeks

Ready to take the next step?

Connect with a specialist to see if Pneumatic Retinopexy is right for you.

Post Surgery Recovery

What to expect after your procedure

This is usually a day-care procedure with no hospital stay. Strict head positioning is typically needed for several days, and flying or travelling to high altitude is unsafe until the gas bubble has fully absorbed. Some patients need a second procedure such as vitrectomy if the retina does not stay attached, so international patients should plan a flexible in-country stay of 2–6 weeks.

Hospital Stay

1–7 days

Varies by procedure

Initial Rest

1–2 weeks

Light activity only

Follow-up Visit

2–4 weeks

Wound check & review

Full Recovery

6–12 weeks

Back to normal activity

Recovery & Wellness Tips

Retinal exam to confirm suitability
Share all current medicines
Arrange help for strict head positioning
Avoid booking flights until surgeon clears you
Plan daily follow-up visits for the first week

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