What is Vitrectomy?
Vitrectomy is a highly advanced surgical procedure performed by a retinal specialist to treat a wide range of diseases involving the retina and vitreous. The vitreous is the clear, gel-like substance that fills the main cavity of the eye. When the vitreous becomes cloudy, inflamed, or pulls on the retina, vitrectomy is performed to remove it. This allows the surgeon to gain access to the back of the eye to treat the underlying condition.
When is Vitrectomy Done?
Vitrectomy is a versatile procedure used to address numerous conditions that can threaten vision. It is typically performed when a condition cannot be treated effectively with less invasive methods like medication or laser. Common indications for vitrectomy include:
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Retinal Detachment: A sight-threatening condition where the retina pulls away from its underlying tissue.
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Vitreous Hemorrhage: Blood leaking into the vitreous cavity, often caused by diabetic retinopathy, which obscures vision.
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Diabetic Retinopathy: Advanced cases where abnormal blood vessels grow on the retina, requiring removal of scar tissue.
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Macular Hole: A small break in the macula that causes blurred central vision.
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Epiretinal Membrane: A layer of scar tissue that forms on the retina, causing distorted vision.
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Advanced Macular Edema: Chronic swelling of the macula that is resistant to other treatments.
Vitrectomy Surgery Procedures
The vitrectomy is a sophisticated microsurgery, with continuous advancements in surgical technology making it safer and more precise than ever.
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Procedure Duration & Anesthesia
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The duration of a vitrectomy can vary depending on the complexity of the case, typically lasting 30 minutes to over an hour. Anesthesia is usually a local anesthetic, where the eye is numbed with an injection. Subtenon anesthesia, a common form of local anesthesia for vitrectomy, involves injecting an anesthetic agent around the eyeball to numb the entire eye and its surrounding muscles. In some complex cases, general anesthesia may be used.
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Pain During Surgery
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With local anesthesia, patients typically feel no pain, though they may feel some pressure or a sensation of the surgeon working on the eye. Numbing medication ensures a comfortable and pain-free experience.
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Post-Surgery Vision & Precautions
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Vision: Your vision will be blurry or hazy for a period after surgery. This is normal and will gradually improve.
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Positioning: Depending on the condition treated, you may be asked to maintain a specific head position (e.g., face down) for several days to allow a gas bubble or silicone oil to apply pressure to the retina, aiding in healing.
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Precautions: You will be given strict instructions to avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, swimming, and air travel (if a gas bubble was used) for a specified period to ensure proper healing.
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Risks of Vitrectomy
While vitrectomy has a high success rate, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications. Your surgeon will discuss these with you in detail.
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Detailed Potential Risks
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Infection (Endophthalmitis): This is a very rare but severe complication. It occurs when bacteria enter the eye, leading to a serious infection and inflammation of the internal structures. Symptoms like severe pain, redness, and a significant drop in vision warrant immediate medical attention.
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Vitreous Hemorrhage: A common risk, this involves bleeding into the vitreous cavity during or after surgery. It can cause a sudden decrease in vision. While it often resolves on its own over time, it may require further treatment if the bleeding is severe or persistent.
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Retinal Break/Detachment: This is a risk of any surgery involving the retina. The retina can tear or detach during the procedure itself or in the post-operative period. Close monitoring is crucial, and a retinal detachment requires immediate surgical repair.
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Eye Pressure Elevation/Glaucoma: Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) can occur after surgery due to inflammation, the use of certain medications, or the eye's drainage system being blocked. This can be temporary and managed with eye drops. In some cases, if the pressure remains high, it can lead to glaucoma.
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Cataract Formation or Acceleration: Vitrectomy can accelerate the natural development of cataracts in patients who still have their natural lens. This is a common and expected long-term complication. If a cataract forms and begins to impair vision, it can be easily treated with a subsequent cataract surgery.
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Expulsive Hemorrhage: This is an extremely rare but severe complication that involves massive, rapid bleeding in the choroid (a layer of blood vessels behind the retina). It can occur during or after surgery and can lead to significant vision loss. Patients with uncontrolled high blood pressure or diabetes have a higher risk.
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Cost of Vitrectomy in Japan
The cost of vitrectomy surgery in Japan is generally an out-of-pocket expense for international patients and is not covered by Japan's public health insurance. The cost varies based on the complexity of the surgery, the clinic, and the surgeon's expertise.
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Estimated Costs Per Eye.
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Vitrectomy (Solely): 1,300,000 JPY to 1,700,000 JPY
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(Approx.: ~$8,200 - $10,800 USD / ¥59,600 - ¥78,000 CNY / ₱481,500 - ₱630,000 PHP / ₹684,000 - ₹895,000 INR / Rp130,000,000 - Rp170,000,000 IDR / ฿302,000 - ฿395,000 THB)
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Vitrectomy (Cataract Combined): 1,700,000 JPY to 2,200,000 JPY
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(Approx.: ~$10,800 - $13,900 USD / ¥78,000 - ¥101,000 CNY / ₱630,000 - ₱815,000 PHP / ₹895,000 - ₹1,158,000 INR / Rp170,000,000 - Rp220,000,000 IDR / ฿395,000 - ฿512,000 THB)
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Note: The exchange rates above are approximate and subject to daily fluctuations. The final cost will be paid in Japanese Yen.
Advantages of Cataract Surgery in Japan
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Minimally Invasive Surgery
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Japanese surgeons are at the forefront of minimally invasive vitrectomy, using tiny incisions (as small as 25 or 27 gauge) that often do not require stitches. This advanced technique leads to less trauma to the eye, faster healing, and a quicker return to normal life.
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Advanced Techniques for Challenging Cases
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Japan's retinal specialists are renowned for developing and utilizing sophisticated techniques for complex conditions. Our network includes surgeons with expertise in:
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Cystotomy for Macular Edema: A specialized procedure to drain chronic fluid build-up in the macula.
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Autologous Retinal Transplantation for Macular Hole: An innovative technique where a piece of the patient's own retinal tissue is used to repair large, difficult-to-treat macular holes.
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Read Invited Expert Articles
A New Option in Retinal Edema Surgery: Cystotomy as a Treatment for Refractory Macular Edema
Kobe iClinic
Dr. Daiki Sakai, MD
Our Medical Concierge Services
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What to Expect from Our Services
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We are your dedicated partner throughout your vitrectomy journey in Japan. Our physician-led team ensures every step is guided by expert medical understanding, from your initial consultation to destination choice.
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Service Flow
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Initial Review: Start by completing our secure inquiry form on this page. Tell us about your situation and what you seek from our expert doctors.
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Expert Match: Based on your condition and preferences, our physician-led team will precisely match you with ophthalmology experts from our exclusive network across Japan.
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Personalized Referrals: We'll propose suitable medical institutions for your treatment in Japan. Our goal is to connect you with the ideal specialist and facility, opening the door for you to experience professional Japanese ophthalmology.
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Service Fees
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Email Consultation for Expert Match and Personalized Referrals: Free of Charge
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