OphthalmologyRetina

Vitrectomy Surgery

Also known as: retina surgery, pars plana vitrectomy, PPV, eye gel removal surgery, submacular hemorrhage surgery, vitreous surgery

Micro-incision retina surgery to clear blood and protect central vision

Last Updated: October 31, 2026

Surgery Type

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Calculate costfor 23-Gauge Pars Plana Vitrectomy

Implant Type

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What happens in this surgery?

Local anaesthetic block numbs the eye; patient stays awake but comfortable
Three tiny ports are placed in the white of the eye
The vitreous gel is removed with a fine cutting instrument
Blood under the macula may be treated with a clot-dissolving drug and moved away

Ready to take the next step?

Connect with a specialist to see if Vitrectomy Surgery is right for you.

Post Surgery Recovery

What to expect after your procedure

Most patients go home the same day or after one night. If a gas bubble is used, head positioning may be needed for several days and air travel is not permitted until the bubble has fully absorbed, which can take 2–8 weeks depending on the gas. Vision improves gradually over weeks to months.

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

Complete eye scans and blood tests
Review blood thinners with your doctor
Plan travel dates around gas bubble
Fast as instructed before surgery
Arrange help for head positioning at home

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