Vitreoretinal surgery is usually not painful during the operation because strong anaesthesia is used. Afterwards, most people experience manageable discomfort rather than severe pain.
During surgery
Procedures may use local anaesthetic with sedation or full general anaesthesia. This keeps you comfortable and still.
- You should not feel sharp pain while the anaesthetic is working
- Some pressure sensations or moving lights may be noticed
- Surgeons monitor closely and can give extra medication if needed
- Length of surgery varies with the complexity of the retinal problem
Recovery sensations
After surgery, the eye often feels sore, gritty, or bruised. Pain usually improves over a few days.
- Standard pain tablets are enough for many patients
- Gas bubbles can cause a heavy or pressure sensation
- Severe or worsening pain, especially with vomiting or vision drop, needs urgent review
- Following posture and drop instructions helps healing feel smoother
