Vitreous Hemorrhage Surgery Recovery: A Detailed Timeline and Care Guide
- sakai208
- Dec 20, 2025
- 3 min read
I. Introduction: What to Expect After Surgery for Vitreous Hemorrhage, Recovery Course
The success of vitreous hemorrhage surgery recovery depends as much on the post-operative care as it does on the surgery itself. While the removal of blood (vitrectomy) provides a clear path for light to reach the retina, the eye needs time to heal from the microscopic incisions and the internal manipulation of retinal tissues.
Understanding the typical recovery course—including vision changes, activity restrictions, and the role of "tamponades" (gas or oil bubbles)—is essential for a smooth and successful outcome. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the days and weeks following your procedure.
II. The Immediate Post-Operative Period (The First 24 Hours)
Immediately after surgery, your eye will be covered with a protective patch and a hard shield.
Vision: Do not be alarmed if your vision is extremely blurry or if you can only see light. This is normal due to the dilation of the pupil, the presence of surgical ointments, and the internal state of the eye.
Sensation: You may feel a "scratchy" or "sandy" sensation (foreign body sensation) and mild aching. Severe, sharp pain is rare and should be reported to your surgeon immediately.
Medication: You will begin a regimen of antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and reduce swelling.
III. The Role of Post-Operative Positioning
If your surgeon used a gas or air bubble to hold the retina in place (a common step if a tear was found), positioning is the most critical part of your recovery.
The "Face-Down" Requirement: You may be asked to maintain a face-down (prone) position for several hours a day for 1 to 7 days. This ensures the bubble floats to the back of the eye and presses against the area that needs healing.
Why it matters: Failure to maintain the correct position can lead to the failure of the retinal repair or the development of a rapid cataract or high eye pressure.
Equipment: Many patients rent specialized chairs or "face-down pillows" to make this period more comfortable.
IV. The Recovery Timeline: Week by Week
Week 1: The Initial Healing
The Bubble Effect: If you have a gas bubble, you will see a dark, shaky line across your vision—much like looking through a fishbowl. Your vision will be clear above this line and blurry below it.
Activity: Avoid all strenuous activity, heavy lifting (over 5kg), and bending over. Do not get water in your eye while showering.
Weeks 2 to 4: Gradual Improvement
Bubble Shrinkage: The gas bubble will slowly shrink and be replaced by your eye’s natural fluid. As it gets smaller, the "shaky line" will drop lower in your field of vision until it disappears as a small circle at the bottom.
Vision Recovery: As the gas clears and the inflammation subsides, you will notice a gradual improvement in clarity. However, if silicone oil was used, your vision will remain blurred until the oil is surgically removed in a later procedure.
Month 1 to 3: Final Stabilization
Refractive Changes: Your eye’s prescription may change during recovery. Most surgeons wait at least 8 to 12 weeks before prescribing new glasses.
Cataract Development: If you have not had cataract surgery, you may notice a gradual clouding of your vision in the months following a vitrectomy. This is a very common side effect and can be treated with a standard cataract procedure later.
V. Critical Safety Warning: Air Travel and Gas Bubbles
If you have a gas or air bubble in your eye, you must not fly in an airplane or travel to high altitudes.
The Danger: Decreased atmospheric pressure causes the gas bubble inside your eye to expand rapidly. This can lead to a sudden, extreme rise in eye pressure, causing permanent blindness within minutes.
Clearance: Your surgeon will tell you when the bubble is small enough for it to be safe to fly (usually when it is less than 10% of the eye's volume).
VI. Activity Restrictions Table
Activity | Recommended Restriction Period |
Driving | Until cleared by your doctor (usually 1–2 weeks) |
Showering | Day after surgery (keep eye closed/shielded) |
Light Reading/TV | 24–48 hours after surgery |
Heavy Lifting/Exercise | 2–4 weeks |
Eye Makeup | 2–4 weeks |
Flying/Air Travel | Forbidden while gas bubble is present |
VII. Conclusion: Patience is Key to Success
Vitreous hemorrhage surgery recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. While the surgery clears the "red fog" from your vision, the biological healing of the retina takes time. By strictly adhering to your drop schedule, maintaining your required positioning, and attending all follow-up appointments, you give your eye the best possible chance to regain its maximum visual potential.
If you notice a sudden decrease in vision, a "curtain" falling over your sight, or increasing pain during your recovery, contact your retina specialist immediately.
This article was reviewed by
Dr. Daiki Sakai, MD
