What Should You Buy Before Vitrectomy Surgery?

Last Updated: July 2026

Preparing before vitrectomy surgery can make the first few days at home much easier, especially if your surgeon has told you that face down positioning may be required. Many patients focus on the surgery itself and only realize afterward how helpful it is to have their recovery space ready in advance.

Every patient's recovery instructions are different, so your surgeon's advice should always come first. The items below are general preparation ideas to discuss with your medical team if you are unsure what is appropriate for your situation.

Start With Your Surgeon's Instructions

Before buying anything, confirm what your surgeon expects after surgery. Some patients need face down positioning for several days, while others may have different positioning or activity restrictions.

It can be helpful to ask your medical team:

• Whether face down positioning will be required
• How many hours per day positioning may be needed
• Which sleeping positions are allowed
• Whether you will need prescription eye drops
• Which activities should be avoided during recovery

Face Down Recovery Equipment

If face down positioning is part of your recovery plan, specialized equipment is often one of the most useful things to arrange before surgery day. Regular pillows and makeshift setups may work for short periods, but they can become uncomfortable quickly.

Depending on your recovery needs, equipment may include:

• Face down recovery chair
• Face down table or bed support system
• Two-way mirror for watching TV
• Portable seated support for meals, reading, or desk use

At Vitrectomy Rentals, we provide face down recovery equipment with delivery, setup, and pickup so patients can have their recovery area ready before surgery. Patients in Southwestern Ontario can also use our London recovery guide to plan transportation, home setup, and the first few days after a procedure.

Comfort Items for the First Few Days

The first few days after surgery are often when patients feel the most tired and uncomfortable. Small comfort items can help reduce unnecessary movement and make your recovery space easier to use.

Consider preparing:

• Extra pillows or soft blankets
• A water bottle with a straw
• Easy snacks or prepared meals
• Phone and tablet chargers within reach
• A small basket for eye drops, tissues, and medications
• Comfortable clothing that is easy to change

Eye Drop and Medication Supplies

Many patients are prescribed eye drops after vitrectomy surgery. Your exact medication schedule will come from your surgeon, but it can help to prepare a simple system before you come home.

Helpful supplies may include:

• A printed medication schedule
• A pen or checklist for tracking doses
• Clean tissues or gauze if recommended by your medical team
• Hand sanitizer or soap near your recovery area

If you are unsure how to use your drops, ask your surgeon's office or pharmacist to review the instructions with you before surgery.

Entertainment and Daily Routine Items

Recovery can feel slow, especially when positioning limits your usual activities. Preparing simple entertainment options ahead of time can make the day feel more manageable.

• Audiobooks, podcasts, or music playlists
• A tablet or phone positioned where you can use it comfortably
• A two-way mirror if you plan to watch television face down
• Hands-free headphones
• Books or reading material if approved and comfortable

Home Preparation Before Surgery

You may not feel like organizing your home right after surgery. Preparing ahead of time can help reduce stress for both patients and caregivers.

Before surgery day, consider:

• Setting up your main recovery area
• Arranging a ride home from surgery
• Preparing simple meals or groceries
• Keeping pathways clear to reduce tripping hazards
• Placing important items within easy reach
• Asking family or friends for help during the first few days

What You May Not Need to Buy

It is easy to overbuy before surgery, especially when you are trying to feel prepared. In many cases, renting specialized recovery equipment can be more practical than purchasing items you may only need for a short period.

Before buying medical supplies, cushions, or positioning equipment, confirm what your surgeon recommends and consider whether renting would be simpler for your recovery timeline.

Final Thoughts

The best things to prepare before vitrectomy surgery are the items that help you follow your surgeon's instructions, stay comfortable, and avoid unnecessary stress during the first few days at home.

If face down positioning is required, arranging recovery equipment before surgery can make the transition home much easier. Vitrectomy Rentals provides face down recovery equipment with delivery, setup, and pickup for patients recovering from vitrectomy and retinal surgery.