How am I supposed to stay in a face-down position for 2 weeks?
Many patients find it helpful to obtain special equipment, such as massage furniture, which allows for more comfortable positioning. There are many sources for this equipment, and it may be covered by your insurance company. You can read or even watch TV in a face-down position; put the TV on the floor facing upward, or use a mirror to look at the TV. Other patients prefer the radio or books on tape. A dedicated space where the patient can remain in a face down position and have easy access to telephone, tissues, drops, drinking straws, etc. is a good idea. Nevertheless, some patients will have difficulty maintaining this position. In some cases, your doctor may relax these requirements. For patients who cannot position, silicone oil may be used instead of intraocular gas. Silicone oil is a clear viscous fluid that is used to fill the vitreous cavity. It must be removed at a later date in another operative procedure.
