Has your doctor recommended for you to undergo a Vitrectomy? Many people travel all the way to Thailand to get the best treatment at an affordable price. To undergo a Vitrectomy in this tropical country also allows you to combine the surgery with a beautiful holiday. We have compiled a list of 5 simple but important tips to bear in mind before you have a Vitrectomy.
Find the hospital accreditation and the doctor’s credentials
Although most hospitals in Thailand are on par with Western standards, there are some hospitals that do not offer quality procedures and are only in it for the money. The best way to make sure you have the safest procedure is to choose a hospital with international accreditation such as the Joint Commission International (JCI). You also want to be handled by an expert in Vitrectomy, so it is important for you to ensure that the doctor has the right skills, experience, and credentials. If checking on the background of the hospital and doctor is difficult for you, then you can opt to get the help of a reputable medical travel facilitator, such as MyMediTravel. They have available all of the information that you will need to know and can make the process of your vitrectomy in Thailand a lot easier.
Prepare to take some time off work
Vitrectomy is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can leave the hospital on the same day. In some cases, you may need to stay in the hospital for 1 to 2 days. However, you may need to stay in Thailand a lot longer, usually around 4 weeks, because you cannot fly until the air bubble has gone from your eye. Cabin pressure can cause the air bubble in your eye to expand and cause severe damage. It will also be very awkward for you to get back to work once you are back in your home country since you have to hold your head in a downward-facing position. Do not fly home or go to work until your doctor gives you the all-clear and plan to take at least 6 weeks off work.
Ask someone to go with you
You may need someone to help you after the procedure as certain activities will need to be avoided after a Vitrectomy. Since the procedure is an outpatient procedure, you also need someone to help you travel from the hospital to the hotel.
Ask your doctor about the specific things you need to do to prepare
Before a Vitrectomy, there are several things you need to prepare for to make sure the procedure goes well. Ask your doctor if you need to stop taking certain medications and if you need to avoid any types of food and drinks. You also need to ask about the anesthesia options and how long the surgery typically takes. Vitrectomy is often performed with mild anesthesia to numb the eyes, but you can ask your doctor to give you general anesthesia if you prefer to remain unconscious throughout the surgery.
Follow all instructions that your doctor recommends to aid your recovery
After the surgery, your doctor will give you a set of post-operative instructions. It is crucial for you to strictly follow these instructions so you can have a fast and smooth recovery. While you are recovering, you usually will need to take prescribed eye drops, refrain for any strenuous activities, and lie face down or turn your head to one side for a period of time to help your eye heal properly. You can also take over-the-counter pain relievers if your eye feels sore, but make sure to consult your doctor before doing so.