Vitrectomy in Turkey: Steps, Recovery, and Results

Vitrectomy is a specialized surgical procedure used to treat various retinal and vitreous conditions, including retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, and diabetic retinopathy.

The surgery involves removing the vitreous gel and replacing it with a medical solution, gas, or silicone oil to restore vision and improve eye function.

Turkey is a top destination for vitrectomy, offering cutting-edge technology, expert surgeons, and competitive prices.

In this article, we cover everything you need to know about vitrectomy, including its types, step-by-step procedure, who can benefit from it, and how vision is restored with detailed explanations and images.

What is A Vitrectomy?

Vitrectomy is a surgical procedure performed by an ophthalmologist to treat retina and vitreous disorders. It involves removing the vitreous gel from the eye to improve vision and address conditions such as retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, scar tissue formation, or eye injuries.

During the procedure, the removed vitreous is replaced with a saline solution, gas bubble, or silicone oil to help stabilize the retina and support healing.

Gas Bubble is commonly used after vitrectomy to help reattach the retina, especially in cases of retinal detachment. The gas bubble provides necessary pressure on the retina to help it heal properly. It gradually dissipates over time.

Silicone oil is used if there are issues with retinal stability or in cases of persistent or severe retinal detachment. In such situations, the surgeon may opt for silicone oil. This material helps maintain retinal stability for a longer duration and may require removal at a later date.

The primary goal of vitrectomy is to prevent the condition from worsening, stabilize vision, or restore disrupted vision.

Why Choose Turkey for Vitrectomy?

If you're looking for high-quality medical care at an affordable price, Turkey stands out as one of the top destinations for eye treatments, including vitrectomy surgery. Here’s why Turkey is an excellent choice for this procedure

1. World-class ophthalmic surgeons: Turkey is known for its highly trained eye specialists who have extensive experience in performing vitrectomy with precision and care.

2. Cutting-edge medical technology: Hospitals and clinics in Turkey utilize the latest advancements in retinal surgery, ensuring safe and effective treatment.

3. Cost-effective surgery: Patients can receive high-quality care at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries, with options for all-inclusive treatment packages.

4. Comprehensive patient support: International patients benefit from full medical tourism services, including airport transfers, accommodation, and multilingual medical staff.

5. Excellent postoperative care: Turkish clinics focus on personalized aftercare to support a smooth recovery and the best possible visual outcomes.

Related health topics: Laser therapy for retinal diseases

Cost of Vitrectomy

The average cost of a vitrectomy in Turkey ranges between $3,000 and $6,000.

This price varies depending on factors such as the clinic's reputation, surgeon fees, services provided, type of anesthesia and additional costs.

Notably, when comparing the cost of vitrectomy in Turkey with countries like Germany, the US, and the UK, Turkey's prices are lower by 30% to 50% or more, without compromising the quality of services, clinic standards, or surgeon qualifications.

Vitrectomy cost in the United States: Costs range from $8,400 to $12,400.​

Vitrectomy cost in the United Kingdom: Costs range from $10,500 to $12,700.​

Vitrectomy cost in Germany: Costs range from $5,940 to $7,260.

Turkey's affordability in vitrectomy procedures is attributed to government incentives promoting medical tourism, the reputation of clinics, and comprehensive packages offered to international patients.

These packages are designed to make the medical journey easier, more cost-effective, and comfortable.

To obtain an individualized price quote and learn about our available offers, please contact us at International Clinics today.

When Is Vitrectomy Surgery Necessary?

Your doctor may recommend a vitrectomy if you suffer from any of the following conditions:

• Retinal detachment: When the retina pulls away from the back of the eye, vitrectomy helps reattach it. Vitrectomy is preferred over laser therapy when the detachment is large, involves the macula, has severe traction, includes vitreous hemorrhage, results from trauma, or when other treatments have failed.

• Vitreous hemorrhage: Bleeding into the vitreous, often caused by diabetic retinopathy, can block vision. In some cases, vitrectomy is an emergency treatment for vitreous hemorrhage to restore sight and prevent complications.

• Macular hole: A small tear in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp vision. It can occur due to aging, eye trauma, high myopia, or retinal detachment. Vitrectomy is the best option when the hole is full-thickness, causing significant vision loss, or does not heal on its own

• Diabetic retinopathy : It is a progressive complication of chronic high blood sugar levels, as seen in uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Elevated blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels in the retina, leading to retinal damage, vitreous hemorrhage, and optic nerve damage. Vitrectomy is a good option to remove blood from the vitreous, relieve traction on the retina, and prevent further vision loss when other treatments are ineffective.

• Epiretinal membrane is a layer of scar tissue that forms on the retina, causing vision distortion and blurriness. It can develop due to aging, retinal tears, inflammation, or previous eye surgery. In cases where vision is significantly affected, vitrectomy is performed to remove the membrane and improve visual clarity.

• Complications from previous eye surgery: Such as issues arising after cataract surgery or other procedures.

Vitrectomy is a treatment option for these conditions; however, your doctor will determine whether it is the best approach for your specific case.

Are You a Candidate for Vitrectomy?

To be a candidate, in addition to having one of these conditions, you should be:

• In good overall health,
• Have no uncontrolled infections or
• Have no severe systemic illnesses, and
• Be able to follow post-surgical care instructions, including positioning requirements if a gas bubble is used.

Who Can’t Undergo Vitrectomy?

Not everyone is a suitable candidate for vitrectomy. Your doctor may advise against the procedure if you have:

• Uncontrolled systemic diseases: Severe diabetes, hypertension, or other conditions that increase surgical risks.

• Active eye infections or severe inflammation: The procedure may be postponed until the infection or inflammation is treated.

• Poor overall health: Advanced heart disease, immune system disorders, or other conditions that impair healing.

• Inability to follow postoperative care: Patients who cannot maintain required head positioning or adhere to recovery instructions.

• High surgical risk: Cases where the potential complications outweigh the benefits, as determined by an ophthalmologist.

Explore more eye procedures in which Turkey is a leading destination, including Lasik eye surgery and Glaucoma Drainage Surgery

Types of Vitrectomy

There are two main types of vitrectomy, and the appropriate type is chosen based on the patient’s condition:

1. Anterior Vitrectomy: Performed when the vitreous gel moves into the front of the eye, usually due to trauma or complications from cataract surgery.

This procedure removes the displaced vitreous to prevent damage to the lens or cornea.

2. Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV): The most common type, used to treat retinal conditions such as retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, macular holes, epiretinal membrane, and complications of diabetic retinopathy.

It involves making small incisions in the sclera to remove the vitreous gel and repair the retina.

Vitrectomy Procedure

Before the Procedure

Before vitrectomy, your doctor will perform a comprehensive eye examination, including retinal imaging tests like optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus examination or ultrasound, to assess the retina and vitreous.

For surgery preparation, you may need to stop certain medications, such as blood thinners, to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Fasting for a few hours before surgery may also be required, and your doctor will provide specific preoperative instructions.

During the Procedure

Vitrectomy is typically performed under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the case.

The surgeon makes small incisions in the sclera (white part of the eye) and removes the vitreous gel.

Depending on the condition being treated, additional steps may include repairing the retina, removing scar tissue, or sealing retinal tears with a laser.

The eye is then filled with a saline solution, gas bubble, or silicone oil to help maintain its shape and support healing.

After the Procedure

Following vitrectomy, you may experience mild discomfort, redness, or blurry vision. Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.

If a gas bubble is used, you may need to maintain a specific head position for several days to help the retina heal properly.

Recovery time varies but typically takes a few weeks to months, depending on the condition treated. Regular follow-up visits are necessary to monitor healing and vision improvement.

Vision Before and After Vitrectomy

Before vitrectomy, vision may be blurry, distorted, or obstructed due to conditions like vitreous hemorrhage or retinal detachment.

After surgery, vision gradually improves as the eye heals, with significant clarity achieved over weeks to months.

Vitrectomy Recovery Period

The recovery period includes some side effects, healing process, and vision recovery.

You may experience some eye pain and blurry vision for a few days after the surgery. Recovery usually takes about 2 to 4 weeks before you can return to your normal activities.

The vitrectomy healing process varies from person to person, but most patients experience a gradual improvement in vision over several weeks to months.

Side Effects After Vitrectomy

After the procedure, it is normal to experience some temporary side effects, including:

• Blurred vision, which gradually improves over time
• Mild pain, discomfort, or a gritty sensation in the eye
• Redness and swelling around the operated eye
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Seeing floaters or shadows, especially if a gas bubble was used
• Temporary difficulty focusing or adjusting to light changes
• Foggy vision after vitrectomy: This side effect temporarily occurs if your surgeon uses a gas bubble or silicone oil. Your vision will be very blurry immediately after surgery. This is a normal part of the healing process and not a cause for concern.

Vitrectomy Recovery Timeline

• First few days: Vision remains blurry due to post-surgical inflammation, swelling, or the presence of a gas bubble or silicone oil. If a gas bubble is used, vision may appear dark or distorted.
• First few weeks: Gradual improvement in vision as swelling subsides and the eye heals. If a gas bubble was used, it would dissolve over 2–8 weeks, allowing clearer vision.
• One to three months: Significant improvement in vision, although full recovery may take longer, depending on the severity of the original condition.
• Three to six months: Final visual outcomes become clearer, especially if the retina has fully healed. However, if silicone oil was used, vision will remain blurry until it is removed in a second procedure

How do patients with left eye retinal detachment see before the vitrectomy?

How do patients with right eye retinal detachment see before the vitrectomy?

How do patients see during the recovery period vitrectomy with a gas bubble? Gradual improvement in the vision

During the first week:

During the second week:

During the third week:

During the next month:

How do patients see after the vitrectomy? Normal vision is restored after successful healing

Post-Vitrectomy Care Tips for Optimal Healing

• Follow your doctor’s prescribed eye drop regimen to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
• Maintain the recommended head positioning if a gas bubble was inserted to ensure proper healing.
• Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or bending over for at least a few weeks.
• Do not rub or press on the eye to prevent complications.
• Wear an eye shield while sleeping and sunglasses outdoors to protect the eye.
• Avoid air travel and high altitudes if a gas bubble was used, as changes in pressure can affect the eye.
• Attend all follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.

How to sleep after a vitrectomy?

After a vitrectomy, sleep in the position recommended by your doctor, usually face-down or on your side, to keep the gas bubble in place and aid healing. Use a special face-down pillow or head support if needed. Avoid sleeping on your back if advised.

Vitrectomy Success Rate

Vitrectomy has a high success rate, typically ranging from 80% to 90%, depending on the underlying condition being treated.

In cases like retinal detachment, macular hole, or vitreous hemorrhage, the procedure is highly effective in restoring vision or preventing further deterioration.

However, final visual outcomes vary based on the severity of the disease, overall eye health, and post-surgical healing.

Risks and Complications of Vitrectomy Surgery

Undergoing vitrectomy comes with certain risks, including:

• Eye infection that may require additional treatment
• Excessive bleeding during or after the procedure
• Increased intraocular pressure, which can lead to complications
• Retinal detachment that may develop as a result of the surgery
• Lens damage, potentially affecting vision clarity
• Accelerated cataract formation, leading to earlier cataract surgery
• Eye movement difficulties that could temporarily affect focus
• Changes in refractive error, possibly requiring new prescription glasses or contact lenses

Vitrectomy vs. Laser Surgery for Retinal Disease

Both vitrectomy and laser surgery are used to treat retinal diseases, but they serve different purposes and are recommended based on the severity of the condition.

Vitrectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the vitreous gel to treat conditions like retinal detachment, vitreous hemorrhage, or macular holes. It is often necessary for advanced or complex retinal diseases where laser treatment alone is insufficient.

Laser therapy for retinal diseases (Photocoagulation) is a non-invasive procedure that uses laser energy to seal retinal tears, reduce abnormal blood vessel growth, or prevent further retinal damage. It is commonly used for diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears, and certain cases of macular edema.

In some cases, both procedures are combined, laser surgery may be performed during or after vitrectomy to enhance treatment outcomes.

If you're considering retinal treatment, consult with International Clinics to determine the best option for your condition.

FAQs

What is the average cost of a vitrectomy?

In Turkey, the cost of a vitrectomy varies by city and hospital. For example, Biruni University Hospital in Istanbul lists vitrectomy costs ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 depending on the type of procedure. In the United States, the average cost of a vitrectomy ranges from approximately $7,169.79 to $13,731, depending on factors such as insurance coverage and surgical complexity.​

Can I fly after vitrectomy surgery?

It's advisable to avoid flying for a few days post-vitrectomy to minimize risks

Where is a vitrectomy performed?

Vitrectomy is performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital by an ophthalmologist.​

What is the success rate of a vitrectomy?

Vitrectomy has a high success rate, especially for treating retinal detachment and macular holes, with significant improvements in vision reported.

What is a vitrectomy done for?

Vitrectomy is performed to treat retinal disorders such as retinal detachment, macular holes, diabetic retinopathy, and vitreous hemorrhage

How long does it take to heal from vitrectomy?

Recovery varies; many start feeling better within a few days, but complete healing can take several weeks.

Is vitrectomy done for glaucoma?

Vitrectomy is not typically performed to treat glaucoma; however, it can be used to address glaucoma that develops after retinal surgery.

Does vitrectomy remove all vitreous?

Vitrectomy removes a significant portion of the vitreous gel, but some residual vitreous may remain.

Can I wear an eye patch after vitrectomy?

Post-surgery, wearing an eye shield at night is recommended to protect the eye during healing.

Can you have a vitrectomy after cataract surgery?

Yes, vitrectomy can be performed after cataract surgery if needed, but timing and necessity should be discussed with your ophthalmologist.