A person is pointing at a medical image of a human eye's retina displayed on a screen, showing blood vessels and the optic disc.

Vitrectomy

A vitrectomy is a minimally invasive, sutureless surgery used to treat a variety of conditions affecting the retina and vitreous, the clear gel that fills the center of the eye. During surgery, the vitreous gel is carefully removed and replaced with a sterile solution, gas bubble, or silicone oil to help restore the eye's normal structure and support healing.

By removing scar tissue, blood, or other materials that interfere with vision, a vitrectomy allows your surgeon to access and repair delicate areas of the retina.

Why Is a Vitrectomy Performed?

A vitrectomy may be recommended to treat several retinal conditions, including:

  • Retinal Detachment: Repairs and reattaches the retina to help preserve vision.

  • Macular Hole: Treats a small opening in the central retina that can cause blurred or distorted vision.

  • Macular Pucker: Removes scar tissue that may wrinkle or distort the retina.

  • Vitreous Hemorrhage: Clears blood from the vitreous cavity that is blocking vision.

  • Diabetic Retinopathy: Addresses complications caused by abnormal blood vessel growth and retinal scarring.

  • Floaters: Removes persistent floaters that significantly affect vision and quality of life.

  • Lens-Related Complications: May be performed to remove or reposition an intraocular lens when needed.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Vitrectomy surgery is performed in an outpatient surgical setting at Amarillo Cataract & Eye Surgery Center using the most advanced equipment—The UNITY® Vitreoretinal and Cataract System by Alcon—which is the first-and-only platform delivering unprecedented innovations for vitreoretinal surgery.

  • Preparation: The eye is numbed, and sedation or anesthesia is provided for comfort.

  • Surgery: Small instruments are used to remove the vitreous gel and perform any necessary retinal repairs.

  • Completion: The eye may be filled with a gas bubble, silicone oil, or sterile fluid to support healing.

Modern vitrectomies are performed through tiny, self-sealing incisions, eliminating the need for stitches.

Recovery After Surgery

Recovery varies depending on the condition being treated and the type of repair performed. Following surgery, patients may experience:

  • Mild eye irritation or redness

  • Temporary blurred vision

  • Light sensitivity

  • The presence of a gas bubble in the vision, if one was used during surgery

One of our surgeons will provide specific postoperative instructions, including any activity restrictions and follow-up appointments needed to monitor healing.

The Benefits of Vitrectomy

Vitrectomy is a highly effective procedure that allows retina specialists to treat many complex eye conditions that cannot be managed with medications or laser treatment alone. By repairing retinal damage and removing obstacles to clear vision, vitrectomy can help preserve sight and improve visual function for many patients.