Vitrectomy Treatment

Vitrectomy Treatment in Turkey

Exploring advanced surgical solutions for complex retinal and vitreous conditions often leads patients to consider vitrectomy—the gold-standard procedure for restoring clarity inside the eye. Turkey has rapidly become a favored destination for vitrectomy treatments, offering experienced vitreoretinal surgeons, cutting-edge microsurgical suites, and comprehensive patient support services at competitive prices. From the initial consultation through postoperative care, we coordinate every detail

What Is a Vitrectomy?

A vitrectomy is a microsurgical intervention in which the eye’s natural vitreous gel is carefully removed and replaced with a balanced salt solution, gas, or silicone oil tamponade. This technique grants surgeons unobstructed access to the retina, enabling precise repair of tears, evacuation of hemorrhages, and treatment of pathologies that cannot be addressed via the front of the eye. Utilizing small-gauge (25- or 27-gauge) instruments and self-sealing incisions, modern vitrectomy minimizes inflammation and accelerates healing, ensuring both safety and comfort for patients choosing Turkey’s premier retinal centers.

Why Is Vitrectomy Performed?

Vitrectomy is indicated whenever the clarity or integrity of the vitreous threatens visual function or ocular health. By removing the gel and any intervening opacities, surgeons can clear dense vitreous hemorrhage to restore transparency, alleviate traction that causes retinal tears or detachments, and seal those breaks with laser or tamponade agents. In cases of macular holes, vitrectomy includes peeling delicate membranes to promote hole closure and recover central vision. When scar tissue forms on the retinal surface—known as epiretinal membranes—surgical peeling relieves distortion and enhances acuity. Vitrectomy is also employed for severe intraocular infections (endophthalmitis), enabling thorough sampling and lavage, and in complicated cataract surgeries where lens fragments or posterior capsule ruptures require safe removal. Each procedure is tailored to the patient’s specific diagnosis, with every surgical parameter—from infusion pressure to tamponade choice—optimized for the best possible outcome.

Conditions That May Require Vitrectomy

Retinal detachments often involve vitreous traction that must be relieved by vitrectomy, followed by laser or cryopexy and a supportive gas bubble to secure reattachment. In proliferative diabetic retinopathy, persistent hemorrhage and tractional membranes endanger the retina, and vitrectomy clears blood, removes fibrous tissue, and permits panretinal photocoagulation to stabilize the disease. Full-thickness macular holes benefit from internal limiting membrane peeling and gas tamponade, achieving closure rates above ninety percent. Dense vitreous hemorrhages unresponsive to conservative therapy demand surgical evacuation to restore vision, while trauma-related cases—whether from blunt blows or penetrating injuries—often introduce blood, debris, or lens fragments that only vitrectomy can safely remove and repair, thereby preventing proliferative vitreoretinopathy and preserving long-term sight.

How Is Vitrectomy Surgery Done?

Vitrectomy begins with local anesthesia—administered via sub-Tenon’s or peribulbar block—and mild sedation when needed. Under sterile conditions, three micro-incisions are made in the pars plana using 25- or 27-gauge trocars. A high-speed vitrectomy cutter then aspirates and segments the vitreous gel, all while an infusion line maintains stable intraocular pressure. Specialized instruments remove hemorrhages, epiretinal membranes, or lens fragments, and laser photocoagulation or cryopexy seals any retinal tears. Finally, the vitreous cavity is filled with balanced salt solution or a long-acting tamponade such as gas or silicone oil to support the retina. Incisions are self-sealing, often eliminating the need for sutures, and patients are fitted with a protective eye shield before being transferred to recovery. The procedure typically lasts 45 to 90 minutes, depending on complexity, and bilateral surgeries are staged separately

Who Is a Good Candidate for Vitrectomy?

Ideal candidates for vitrectomy include patients whose vision is compromised by persistent vitreous hemorrhage that has obscured sight for over a month or is associated with retinal tears. Those with macular pathologies—such as full-thickness holes, epiretinal membranes, or traction unresponsive to non‐surgical therapies—benefit from the procedure, as do individuals facing complicated retinal detachments that require internal tamponade and release of vitreous traction. Severe endophthalmitis, necessitating both diagnostic sampling and thorough lavage of infectious agents, also warrants vitrectomy, as do cases involving dropped lens fragments after complex cataract surgery. Trauma-related complications—ranging from foreign body removal to the excision of traumatic membranes—further indicate the need for microsurgical intervention. Prospective patients should be in sufficient systemic health to tolerate anesthesia and must have no active ocular surface infection. Detailed preoperative assessments, including blood work, cardiology clearance, and ocular imaging, ensure safety and optimize outcomes. We tailor candidacy evaluations to each individual’s medical profile, providing transparent guidance every step of the way.

Recovery After Vitrectomy

Recovery following vitrectomy unfolds over several phases and varies according to the surgical technique and tamponade agent used. In the first 24 to 48 hours, patients may experience mild discomfort, a sensation of something in the eye, and light sensitivity; adherence to prescribed antibiotic and steroid eye drops is essential to control inflammation. Over the first one to two weeks, vision gradually improves as intraocular gas bubbles dissipate or oil remains in place, with heavy lifting and straining to be avoided during this period. By the one‐month mark, retinal stability is confirmed via OCT and clinical examination, cosmetic redness diminishes, and intraocular pressure typically normalizes. Final visual rehabilitation generally occurs between three and six months post‐operatively. Gas tamponades are fully absorbed within this timeframe, while silicone oil, if used, may require a secondary removal surgery. Our retina teams schedule comprehensive follow‐ups at one day, one week, one month, three months, and six months to adjust care as needed, support healing, and maximize visual recovery.

Vision Improvement

The degree and timeline of visual gains after vitrectomy depend largely on preoperative retinal health and the complexity of the procedure. Patients undergoing surgery for macular‐on detachments often regain functional vision within weeks, whereas those treated for macular holes or advanced proliferative diabetic retinopathy may see gradual, incremental improvements over several months. We set realistic expectations by sharing patient testimonials and outcome data, helping each individual understand their likely prognosis and typical recovery milestones.

Post‐Op Precautions

During recovery, protecting the operated eye requires specific precautions. Face‐down positioning may be required for certain gas tamponades to keep the bubble in contact with the macula, usually for three to seven days. Swimming, heavy lifting, and driving should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon, and an eye shield should be worn while sleeping for two weeks to prevent accidental rubbing. Strict adherence to the prescribed regimen of antibiotic, steroid, and pressure‐lowering drops is critical, as is compliance with all scheduled follow‐up visits. Any sudden pain, flashes of light, or new floaters must be reported immediately. To support patients, our coordinators provide both printed and digital instructions, 24/7 helpline access, and home‐health nurse visits as needed

Risks and Possible Complications of Vitrectomy

Although modern vitrectomy techniques have greatly enhanced safety, patients must be aware of potential risks. Endophthalmitis—an infection inside the eye—is very rare (less than 0.1 percent) but requires swift treatment; we minimize this risk through prophylactic antibiotics and strict sterile protocols. Elevated intraocular pressure can result from gas tamponades or postoperative inflammation; our team monitors pressure closely and administers appropriate drops to maintain safe levels. In phakic patients, cataract progression is common, with up to 80 percent developing lens opacities within two years—thus, we discuss timing for cataract surgery or combined procedures as part of your individualized plan. Vitreous hemorrhage may occur during membrane peeling or in eyes with proliferative diabetic changes; while minor bleeds often resolve on their own, significant hemorrhages can require repeat surgery. Retinal tears or re‐detachments affect about 5–10 percent of cases, particularly in complex tractional detachments, and are addressed proactively with laser or additional tamponade. Lastly, the use of tamponade agents necessitates careful positioning—gas requires strict head positioning, and silicone oil often mandates a second procedure for removal. Though vision‐threatening complications are uncommon, our comprehensive consent process ensures you understand all potential outcomes, and our 24/7 support team stands ready to manage any issues that arise.

Vitrectomy Treatment Process in Turkey

Pre-Op Evaluation

A successful vitrectomy begins with a thorough preoperative assessment that uncovers any systemic issues—such as diabetes, hypertension, or clotting disorders—that could affect healing. We perform detailed ocular imaging, including optical coherence tomography to map both macular and peripheral retinal health, fundus photography to document baseline appearance, and B-scan ultrasound when dense hemorrhage obscures the view. Blood tests and cardiology clearance confirm your fitness for anesthesia, and we coordinate with your primary physician to optimize any ongoing treatments. During this phase, you’ll receive personalized counseling on anesthesia options, the need for face-down positioning, and a clear outline of the recovery process.

Surgery Day

On surgery day, our multidisciplinary team welcomes you into a modern, sterile suite. An anesthetist administers either a local block or sedation based on your needs, ensuring comfort throughout the 45–90-minute operation. Using tiny 25- or 27-gauge instruments, the surgeon makes three self-sealing incisions in the pars plana, then gently removes the vitreous gel and any obstructing membranes or hemorrhage. Retinal tears are sealed with laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy, and the vitreous cavity is refilled with balanced salt solution, gas, or silicone oil as appropriate. Real-time intraoperative OCT guides each step, confirming precise reattachment before we place a protective shield and transfer you to recovery.

Post-Surgery Follow-Up

Your postoperative care follows a structured schedule on day one, we confirm wound integrity and intraocular pressure; at week one, we perform retinal imaging and assess tamponade status; at one month, we monitor visual improvement and any cataract progression; and between three to six months, we check long-term stability. You’ll be prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops, and if a gas bubble is used, we will guide you through the required head-positioning protocols. Nutritional advice and low-impact exercise recommendations support healing, and telemedicine options allow you to share vision updates remotely if you return home before full recovery.

Best Eye Clinics for Vitrectomy in Turkey

Choosing a clinic for vitrectomy means considering accreditation, surgical volume, and multidisciplinary support. Acıbadem Healthcare Group operates JCI-accredited hospitals in Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir, offering dedicated retina units with VIP services, including accommodation and interpreter support. Liv Hospital Vadistanbul features ultra-widefield imaging and fellowship-trained surgeons performing over 500 vitrectomies annually. Ege University Eye Hospital in İzmir blends academic research with clinical expertise, pioneering small-gauge techniques and advanced tamponade protocols. Medipol University Eye Center in Istanbul streamlines patient pathways and participates in clinical trials, while Kudret Eye Istanbul specializes in trauma-related cases with 24/7 emergency clinics and rapid intervention. We connect you with the clinic that best aligns with your needs, logistics, and budget.

Vitrectomy Treatment Prices in Turkey 2025

Transparent pricing is essential for planning your treatment abroad. Standard 25-gauge vitrectomy ranges from USD 2,500 to 3,500 per eye, including pre-operative imaging, instruments, local anesthesia, balanced salt solution infusion, one night’s stay, and four follow-up visits. Complex detachment repairs run USD 3,500 to 4,500 and cover multi-membrane peeling, gas or silicone oil tamponade, general anesthesia, a two-night stay, and extended follow-up. Combined vitrectomy and cataract surgery packages cost USD 3,000 to 4,000 per eye, encompassing lens removal with IOL implantation and postoperative care across five visits. Pediatric vitrectomy is priced at USD 3,200 to 4,200 and includes specialized anesthesia and six follow-ups. Our all-inclusive medical tourism plan—from USD 4,000 to 5,000—bundles surgery, three nights’ hotel accommodation, airport transfers, interpreter services, and a guided tour. Financing and installment plans are available, and most international insurers cover vitrectomy as a medically necessary procedure; our billing team handles all pre-authorizations and claims on your behalf.

Is vitrectomy a painful procedure?

Anesthesia protocols combining local blocks with mild sedation ensure you feel no pain during surgery. Any postoperative discomfort is typically limited to mild pressure or itchiness, which is easily managed with over-the-counter or prescribed analgesics.

How long does vision take to improve after vitrectomy?

When the vitreous is replaced with saline solution, many patients notice improved clarity within days. If a gas tamponade is used, full visual recovery may take two to six weeks as the bubble absorbs, while silicone oil–filled eyes often see gradual gains over several months.

Can vitrectomy be repeated?

Yes. In cases of recurrent hemorrhage, persistent traction, or repeat detachment, a second vitrectomy can be performed. Our surgeons evaluate each scenario carefully to minimize additional risks.

Will I need to lie face down after surgery?

Face-down positioning is required when gas tamponade supports an inferior retinal break or macular hole. Depending on the indication, you will maintain this posture for three to seven days, with positioning aids and guidance provided to maximize comfort.

Is vitrectomy covered by health insurance in Turkey?

Most public and private insurers in Turkey cover vitreoretinal surgeries deemed medically necessary—such as detachment repairs or diabetic hemorrhage clearance—while elective combined procedures may incur partial out-of-pocket costs. We verify your coverage and manage all claims to maximize your benefits