Article #5
What Should You Buy Before Vitrectomy Surgery?
Last updated: July 2026
Preparing before vitrectomy surgery can make the first few days at home feel much easier. Once surgery is finished, you may be tired, your vision may be blurry, and your surgeon may ask you to follow specific positioning instructions right away.
The best items to buy or arrange before surgery are the ones that keep essentials close, reduce the need to bend or move around, and help you follow your recovery plan more comfortably. Your surgeon's instructions should always come first, especially when it comes to medications, positioning, and activity limits.
Start With Your Surgeon's Instructions
Before buying anything, ask your retina surgeon what your recovery will likely require. Some patients need face down positioning for several days or longer, while others may have different positioning rules.
You should also confirm which medications, drops, shields, activity limits, and follow-up visits apply to your procedure. A simple written list can help your caregiver understand what you need after surgery.
Medical and Pharmacy Items to Prepare
Many patients are sent home with specific instructions for eye drops or medications. Try to fill prescriptions before surgery when possible, so you are not trying to visit a pharmacy while recovering.
Helpful medical preparation may include:
- prescribed eye drops or medications from your pharmacy
- over-the-counter pain relief only if approved by your surgeon
- clean tissues or gauze if your medical team recommends them
- an eye shield or tape if your surgeon tells you to use one
- a written copy of your post-surgery instructions
Do not add new eye drops, supplements, or medications unless your surgeon or medical team has approved them.
Comfort Items for the First Few Days
The first days after vitrectomy surgery are usually about resting, taking drops on schedule, and getting used to any required positioning. Small comfort items can make that routine less frustrating.
- loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to change
- slip-on shoes to avoid bending
- water bottles with straws or spill-resistant lids
- easy snacks and simple meals
- phone chargers, headphones, and entertainment within reach
Choose items that are simple to use. After surgery, you may not want to adjust complicated devices, search for supplies, or depend on anything that requires a lot of setup.
Set Up Your Recovery Area Before Surgery
A prepared recovery area can make home recovery feel calmer. If you will be positioning face down, place the items you need where you can reach them without bending or twisting.
- a small table next to your recovery chair or bed
- a medication schedule or notebook for tracking drops
- good lighting for caregivers helping with instructions
- trash bags, tissues, and hand sanitizer nearby
- extra pillows or blankets for approved comfort support
Many patients use one main recovery area during the day and a separate sleep setup at night. Getting both ready before surgery helps avoid last-minute stress.
Face Down Recovery Equipment to Arrange
If your surgeon expects you to stay face down, regular household pillows may not provide enough support for long periods. Specialized recovery equipment can help reduce strain while supporting the position your surgeon recommended.
Depending on your recovery plan, helpful equipment may include:
- face down recovery chair
- face down table and bed support system
- two-way mirror for watching TV or speaking with family
- portable seated support for a desk, table, or vehicle
At FDR Rentals, we provide face down recovery equipment throughout Texas, including Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio, with delivery, setup, and pickup. Arranging equipment before surgery means your home can be ready when you return.
What You May Not Need to Buy
It is easy to overbuy when surgery feels close. Focus on items your surgeon recommends and practical supplies that make the first week easier.
- expensive products your surgeon has not recommended
- regular pillows as your only face down support
- eye drops that were not prescribed or approved
- anything that requires bending, lifting, or complicated setup after surgery
If you are unsure whether something is necessary or safe for your eye, ask your medical team before using it.
Key Takeaways
Before vitrectomy surgery, focus on the basics: prescribed medications, a clear recovery area, simple comfort items, caregiver support, and any face down equipment your recovery plan may require.
If face down positioning is expected, reserving equipment before surgery can make the transition home smoother and help you begin recovery with the right support already in place.