Post-Silicone Oil Removal: Essential Positioning and Recovery Tips

After extracting the silicone oil, gas is injected?

Hello, I would like to ask about my eye procedure.
Last month on March 26, I had silicone oil removed from my eye and gas injected instead.
Should I maintain a specific position after the gas injection? The doctor did not mention any positioning requirements, and during my follow-up visit, he noted significant swelling and administered an injection to reduce it.
Is it normal for me to see many bubbles now? My vision also seems a bit blurry.
How long will it take for my vision to stabilize? When can I get new glasses? Thank you for your help.

Yizhen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/14

Dr. He Jianxian reply Ophthalmology

Regarding your question, since I am not a retinal specialist, I cannot provide an adequate answer.
It would be more appropriate to consult your attending physician directly.

Reply Date: 2018/04/14

More Info

After undergoing silicone oil removal and gas injection in your eye, it's crucial to follow specific post-operative care guidelines to ensure optimal recovery and visual outcomes. Here’s a comprehensive overview of what you should consider during your recovery period.

Essential Positioning
1. Head Positioning: After gas injection, your doctor may recommend specific head positioning to help the gas bubble maintain contact with the retina. This is often referred to as "posturing." Depending on the type of gas used and the area treated, you may need to keep your head in a certain position (e.g., face down or tilted) for a specified duration. If your doctor did not provide specific instructions, it is essential to contact them for clarification, as proper positioning can significantly impact the success of the procedure.

2. Avoiding Strain: It’s important to avoid activities that could strain your eyes, such as heavy lifting, bending over, or any vigorous exercise, especially in the initial recovery phase. This helps prevent complications and allows the gas bubble to do its job effectively.

Recovery Tips
1. Managing Swelling: Post-operative swelling is common, and your doctor’s decision to administer a steroid injection to reduce swelling is a standard practice. You can also apply cold compresses around your eyes (not directly on them) to help alleviate discomfort and swelling.

2. Monitoring Vision: It’s normal to experience visual disturbances, such as seeing bubbles or a foggy appearance in your vision after gas injection. The gas bubble will gradually dissolve over time, and your vision should improve as it does. However, if you notice sudden changes in vision, increased pain, or any signs of infection (such as redness or discharge), contact your healthcare provider immediately.

3. Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor your recovery. Your doctor will assess the gas bubble’s status, the retina’s condition, and any other factors affecting your vision. They can provide personalized advice based on your progress.

Timeline for Vision Stabilization
- Initial Recovery: Vision may fluctuate significantly in the first few weeks after surgery. It can take several weeks to months for your vision to stabilize fully, depending on individual healing processes and the extent of the surgery.

- When to Get New Glasses: Typically, you should wait until your vision stabilizes before getting new glasses. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate time for a new prescription, which is usually several weeks to months post-surgery.

Conclusion
In summary, after silicone oil removal and gas injection, maintaining the correct head position, managing swelling, and monitoring your vision are critical for a successful recovery. If you have any uncertainties about your post-operative care or experience concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation and ensure that you are on the right track to recovery.

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