General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
After surgery for retinal detachment, the surgeon may place gas in the eye to hold the retina while it heals. Ask whether gas or silicone oil was used.
The gas bubble gradually dissolves, but its presence changes the precautions you need. Ask the team to explain how its disappearance is checked and which reviews are planned.
While gas remains in the eye, flying and mountain altitude are contraindicated: pressure changes can dangerously increase pressure in the eye. Do not assume the bubble has gone because vision improves.
Before anaesthesia or a procedure, tell healthcare professionals about recent eye surgery and any gas, even if the bubble seems to have gone. Nitrous oxide can cause serious eye complications.
If you need to travel or undergo a procedure, first contact your eye team for the instructions that apply to you. Silicone oil has different precautions from gas.
Report worsening vision after surgery to the surgeon without delay. A new loss of part of the visual field in one eye requires an ophthalmology assessment the same day, or an eye emergency service if no appointment is available. Also report increasing pain or redness to the surgeon and follow the prescribed care.
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