Maintaining a face-down position after retinal surgery, such as a vitrectomy, is crucial for optimal healing. However, this recovery posture can...
There are themes to successfully recovering from a vitrectomy for a retinal detachment. I've not only EXPERIENCED THIS FIRSTHAND but I have watched thousands of others through this process.
Through personal stories, we are hoping you will find HOPE and ENCOURAGEMENT in addition to skills to help you MAXIMIZE YOUR EYESIGHT
Continue to learn about your vitrectomy recovery
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1100+ others facing the same situation.
Retina Recovery Inc. would not exist if I had not undergone emergency surgery for a retinal detachment in 2014. I'm so thankful for the care I received, the encouragement I was the focus of and the best of the best in Dr. Varun Chaudhary, my Ophthalmologist at the Hamilton Regional Eye Institute. Get ready to dive into my facedown recovery story. My story will take you through the highs and lows, the challenges, and the character-building experiences that my wife and me walked through.
After suddenly losing vision in one eye, this Ontario renter wasted no time getting to Urgent Care. Within two days, they were in surgery for a near-total retinal detachment. The 10-day facedown recovery was grueling, but they stayed focused on one thing: regaining their eyesight. With solid support, smart planning, and expert guidance, they got through the toughest days and came out with their vision nearly fully restored.
Facing one retinal detachment is overwhelming enough—this renter from Ontario experienced two, just 3.5 weeks apart. Thanks to quick action, expert care, and strong family support, they navigated back-to-back surgeries and a long recovery period. Their insight is full of wisdom for anyone going through the same journey: focus on the goal, rely on your support system, and don’t cut corners. The result? Full recovery and 20/20 vision in both eyes.
I’m always encouraged by how much a positive attitude can shape the recovery journey after a retinal detachment. This renter’s outlook and perseverance—even through a second recovery—made all the difference. His focus on the end goal helped him stay optimistic, and the result was a smooth, hopeful outcome. Well done!
N.M., a renter from North York, Ontario, shares a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, preparation, and perseverance. Diagnosed with a rare retinal condition after a routine eye exam, N.M. underwent not one, but three vitrectomy surgeries. With determination and the right tools in place, this renter faced the challenge head-on—and just eight weeks after surgery, was back on the tennis court. What a comeback!
There is nothing like being in a foreign country when you have an emergency eye issue. Unfortunately, this is becoming more and more common for people that we see in our vitrectomy recovery business. With that said, there is no place like home when you have to a) have surgery and b) recover from surgery. You will be motivated by the renter as you read their story and how their attitude, outlook, and determination helped propel them through this recovery journey.
This is a personal account of vitrectomy surgery and recovery due to retinal detachment. The writer, a 29-year-old with a high prescription (-6.5), initially had no symptoms but was diagnosed during a routine optometrist visit. Surgery was scheduled within a week, and the recovery process involved strict facedown positioning for several days.
The journey was emotionally challenging, with anxiety before surgery and discomfort during the first few days of recovery. Support from family, proper planning, and patience were key to managing daily tasks. Vision improvement was slow but steady, with noticeable progress around 2.5 months post-op.
Key takeaways include following the surgeon’s guidelines, accepting help, preparing questions for doctor visits, and understanding that recovery timelines vary. The experience reinforced the importance of early detection and careful post-operative care.
"For me, it was just another surgery!" I was so encouraged by this renter's story. He is truly an overcomer. You can be one too as you walk through this journey of facedown recovery.
When recovering from a retinal detachment, it is so easy for your mind to focus on the worst-case scenario. Despite the prognosis, this renter advises you to stay positive about the outcome. This isn't the time to give up. Remember: Recovery without Regrets!
Are you an active person and facing eye surgery? Many of our renters know how this feels. Recovering is as much a mental exercise as it is a physical one. Hang in there! You will get through this.
You can read the positivity in this renter's approach to and recovery from her vitrectomy surgery. Having a vitrectomy on top of other health-related issues can push a person into depression. As you read on, I think you will be inspired.
Some of our renters come from having already sustained trauma to an eye. Thankfully I only see a handful of people in this situation during each calendar year. In these cases, progress is slow and sometimes discouraging. Along the way you take the wins where you can get them. The biggest piece of advice this renter shared is to do what you can to be prepared for surgery.
At Retina Recovery Inc., we’re committed to making your rental and recovery experience as smooth, supportive, and effective as possible. Our renters consistently highlight the care, professionalism, and personal attention they receive—from high-quality equipment and timely service to compassionate guidance from someone who's been through it too.
Read more: Post Eye Surgery (Facedown) Tips for Everyday Activities
Read more: Ideas for Keeping 'Busy' During Facedown Recovery
"Heal Right the First-Time!"
Since 2015, Retina Recovery Inc. has been be honoured to serve thousands of renters during their facedown recovery.
Address: 29 Houndtrail Drive
Waterdown, Ontario L8B 0L9
Phone: 905-745-0412
Email: info[at]retinarecovery.ca
