Preparing questions in advance can help patients have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions about vitrectomy:

1. Is vitrectomy recommended for me because of diabetic retinopathy or another condition?
   
   
2. Do I have any alternatives to vitrectomy? If so, what are the advantages and disadvantages of vitrectomy compared to other procedures?
   
   
3. Who will perform my vitrectomy? What is this doctor’s experience and track record with the surgery?
   
   
4. Is my vitrectomy expected to be an uncomplicated or a complex procedure?
   
   
5. Do I need vitrectomy in one eye or both eyes? If both, how long will I wait before undergoing the second procedure?
   
   
6. What are the expected benefits and possible risks of my vitrectomy? What are my chances that cataracts will form or worsen?
   
   
7. When and where will my surgery take place?
   
   
8. Will it be an outpatient procedure or will it require overnight hospitalization?
   
   
9. What type of anesthesia will be used on me?
   
   
10. How long will my surgery last?
    
    
11. Will I experience pain afterward? If so, what type of medication or other treatment will I receive?
    
    
12. What hygiene measures and other steps should I follow after the surgery? What activity restrictions might I have to observe?
    
    
13. How long will my recovery take?
    
    
14. If problems develop, how soon or late might I experience them?