Treatment

Vitrectomy

Clinically reviewed · Last reviewed 2026-06-13

What it is

In a vitrectomy the surgeon makes tiny openings in the eye and removes the clear vitreous gel that fills it. This allows them to repair or treat problems affecting the retina and the back of the eye, and the gel is replaced with fluid, gas or oil depending on the condition.

What it treats

Vitrectomy is used for a range of back-of-eye conditions.

  • Retinal detachment and some retinal tears
  • Bleeding into the eye, often from diabetic retinopathy
  • Macular holes and some macular membranes
  • Severe floaters or infection inside the eye in selected cases

Recovery

Recovery depends on what was treated and what the eye was filled with. If a gas bubble is used you may need to hold a particular head position (posturing) for a time and must avoid flying until it clears. Vision is blurry at first and improves gradually, and you will use drops while the eye heals.

What to expect

Vitrectomy is a well-established, generally safe operation, though as with any surgery there are risks, including cataract developing sooner. Your surgeon will explain the likely benefit for your specific condition and what your recovery should involve.

Conditions this can help

Retinal detachment A medical emergency where the retina pulls away from the back of the eye; urgent treatment protects sight. Diabetic retinopathy Diabetes-related damage to retinal blood vessels; screening finds silent disease, and macular swelling (DME) needs targeted treatment. Diabetic macular oedema Fluid swelling at the macula from diabetes; blurs central vision but is treatable when found early on screening. Macular degeneration Age-related loss of central vision affecting the macula; dry AMD is common and slow, wet AMD needs urgent treatment. Macular hole A small gap in the central retina causing distorted or missing central vision; often treated with surgery. Epiretinal membrane A thin scar-like sheet on the macula that can warp central vision; many cases are mild and only some need surgery. Floaters and flashes Drifting spots and brief light flashes are common with age; a sudden shower of floaters or a curtain of vision loss is an emergency.

Frequently asked questions

What conditions need a vitrectomy?

It is used for problems at the back of the eye such as retinal detachment, bleeding from diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, and some severe infections or floaters.

Why do I need to posture after a vitrectomy?

If a gas bubble is placed in the eye, holding a specific head position helps the bubble press on the right area to support healing. Your surgeon will tell you if and how to posture.

Can I fly after a vitrectomy?

Not while a gas bubble remains in the eye, as the change in pressure is dangerous. You must wait until the bubble has fully cleared, which your team will confirm.