The essentials
What is vitrectomy?
The surgeon works through tiny openings in the eye and may use laser, peel membranes or place air, gas or silicone oil. The indication determines urgency, positioning, vision recovery and whether a second operation may be needed.
What it may aim to do
- Repair or protect the retina
- Clear blood or debris blocking vision
- Treat selected macular or diabetic retinal disease
- Stabilise the eye when anatomy permits
Is this treatment suitable for me?
A webpage cannot determine this safely. Suitability must be decided by the responsible specialist after reviewing your symptoms, examination, medical history, medicines and relevant tests. Our coordinator can help you prepare the right records, but does not make the clinical decision.
01Procedure and techniqueHow it may be performed and what to discuss
- Small-gauge pars plana vitrectomy
- Endolaser or membrane peeling
- Air, expansile gas or silicone-oil tamponade
- Combined cataract surgery in selected cases
The appropriate technique can only be selected after examination, clinical indication and informed consent.
02Recovery and travelTypical milestones, Turkey stay and fit-to-fly decision
Blurred vision, redness and discomfort are expected; prescribed positioning may be essential.
Drops and retinal checks continue. Vision may remain very blurred with gas or oil.
The retina and vision stabilise according to the underlying disease.
Cataract progression, pressure and retinal recurrence may require further care.
Planning your stay in Turkey
Often at least 4–6 days for early retinal review; longer when the surgeon advises. Flying is prohibited while intraocular gas remains. This is a planning range. The treating team must confirm discharge and fitness to travel.
03Price and inclusionsWhat may change the quotation
- Diagnosis and complexity
- Gas, silicone oil, laser or membrane work
- Combined cataract procedure
- Anaesthesia and facility
- Urgent reviews and possible second operation
Often included—confirm in writing
- Surgeon and anaesthesia fees stated in the written quotation
- Hospital or licensed surgical-facility charges
- Routine pre-operative tests listed in advance
- Standard medication and scheduled early follow-up
Often excluded—ask before paying
- Flights, travel insurance and unrelated medical care unless stated
- Extra nights, companion expenses or additional tests unless listed
- Treatment of complications, readmission or revision unless the policy says so
- Any procedure added after examination and informed consent
04Questions and answersFAQ and a short consultation checklist
When can I fly after vitrectomy?
Never fly or travel to high altitude while a gas bubble remains in the eye. The retinal surgeon must confirm when the gas has fully gone and travel is safe.
Will my vision return to normal?
Not necessarily. The result depends strongly on the condition, how long the retina was affected and whether the macula or optic nerve has permanent damage.
Can my result be guaranteed?
No. Surgery can improve a concern, but healing, scars, symmetry and the final result vary. A responsible surgeon explains the realistic range of outcomes and the possibility of revision without promising perfection.
When can I fly home?
Only after the treating team confirms that recovery is progressing safely. The suggested stay on this page is a planning range, not medical clearance. Longer flights, anaemia, mobility limits and clot risk may require a longer stay.
What should I arrange before travelling?
Share an accurate medical history, medication and supplement list, smoking or nicotine use, previous surgery and relevant photographs or reports. Arrange travel insurance, an adult companion where advised, time away from work and a named follow-up clinician at home.
When should I seek urgent help?
Follow the hospital's written emergency plan. New shortness of breath, chest pain, one-sided leg swelling, uncontrolled bleeding, fainting, high fever, rapidly worsening pain or sudden colour change require urgent medical assessment.
Ask the treating doctor
- Why do you recommend this procedure for my case?
- Who will perform the procedure, and where?
- What should I expect during recovery?
- What follow-up will I receive after I return home?
05Sources and review statusReferences used for this general guide
These sources support general information only and do not replace advice based on your examination and history.
American Academy of Ophthalmology — Vitrectomy NHS — Vitrectomy patient information- Last editorial update
- 19 September 2026
- Medical reviewer
- Pending appointment