What is a vitrectomy?
A vitrectomy is a surgical procedure in which the vitreous gel (the clear jelly inside the eye) is removed to give clear access to the retina, enabling the repair of problems at the back of the eye such as sealing retinal holes or reattaching the retina.
If a hole develops, the retina can detach, similar to wallpaper peeling from a wall. During surgery, the vitreous is removed, the hole is sealed with laser or freezing treatment, and a gas bubble or silicone oil is placed inside the eye to hold the retina in position as it heals.
Conditions we treat with vitrectomy
With more than 40 years’ experience in vitreoretinal surgery, Professor Tom Williamson has treated thousands of patients with complex eye conditions. Vitrectomy is one of the procedures he performs regularly, helping to restore sight in cases of:
Trusted by patients for decades
“I appreciated his honest assessment, review of possible options and considerations and his judgement”
Keith B.
“One call led to an immediate appointment that same morning”
William L.
“I have had several procedures with Professor Williamson and I know I am in the best hands”
Janet S.
Continuity of care you can rely on
While the specific steps of a vitrectomy can vary depending on the condition being treated, our approach to patient care remains the same.
Before your operation
- Consultation & imaging: Professor Williamson examines your eye and reviews scans.
- Anaesthetic plan: Most surgeries use local anaesthetic, but general anaesthetic is an option in some cases.
- Pre-op instructions: You’ll receive guidance on fasting, medication adjustments, and arranging someone to take you home.
On the day
- Admission checks: Nursing checks, consent, and final discussion with Professor Williamson
- Anaesthetic: Local anaesthetic is given around the eye (similar to a dental injection, but for the eye), or general anaesthetic is applied. This stops pain and eye movement.
- Surgery
- Tiny ports are made in the white of the eye
- The vitreous gel is removed
- The retina is treated
- A gas bubble or silicone oil is placed to hold the retina in position
- Head positioning: Depending on the repair, you may need to position your head in a certain way (face down, right cheek down) so the bubble supports the repair correctly.
After surgery
- Going home: Most patients go home the same day.
- Follow-up: You’ll be seen in the first three days after the operation to check that everything is progressing as planned
- Eye drops: You’ll use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops for about one month, usually four times a day.
- Showering & activity: You can shower the next day but make sure to dry the eyelids after the shower. Physical activity is limited for 4–6 weeks.
- Driving: Avoid driving until your vision meets legal standards (often after the gas bubble has gone).
- Recovery time: Vision recovery is gradual. It can take 2–6 months to judge the final result.
Combining vitrectomy with cataract surgery
Vitrectomy can accelerate the natural development of cataracts. Because cataract surgery is highly effective, this isn’t a concern, but for patients who already have early cataracts, Professor Williamson may recommend performing cataract removal at the same time as vitrectomy. This ‘combined’ approach avoids the need for a second operation in the near future.
Recovery time
Surgery Time
~45–90 minutes
Hospital Stay
Outpatient (same-day)
Vision Improvement
Gradual over days to weeks
Driving
Often 1–2 weeks
Flying
Not permitted until the gas bubble has fully gone (can take weeks)
Screen Use
Next day if comfortable
Light Activity
Next day
Full Recovery
Several weeks to a few months
Meet Professor Williamson
Professor Tom Williamson is one of the UK’s foremost retinal surgeons, practising in London. With over 40 years in the field, he has performed more than 20,000 operations and is recognised for both his meticulous technique and consistently successful outcomes. Known for his clear, pragmatic approach, Professor Williamson offers patients highly personalised care with continuity over the long term.
Vitrectomy, performed with precision and care
Professor Tom Williamson is one of the UK’s most experienced vitreoretinal surgeons, bringing decades of precision and judgement to every operation.
Exceptional surgical expertise
Tom has successfully treated a wide range of complex retinal conditions, including retinal detachment, providing expert care even in the most challenging cases.
Clarity at every stage
You’ll receive a clear explanation of your diagnosis, the vitrectomy procedure, and what to expect before, during, and after surgery.
Consistent, trusted care
From your first assessment through surgery and follow-up, you’ll be under the care of the same surgeon who knows your case inside out.
How much does a vitrectomy cost?
The cost of a vitrectomy for one eye, for self‑funding patients, is £8,898.
Insurance
We work with major insurance providers, including Bupa, AXA‑PPP, Vitality, WPA, and Aviva. As Professor Williamson is not a fee‑assured consultant, your insurer may not cover the full amount - we’ll confirm any costs with you before treatment.
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