[Sr. Mints]

(Edit I don't even know for sure if I'm having a Vitrectomy, I forget what the doctor said. But based on what I've been reading online, I'm almost certain it is the name of the procedure I'm having done.)

The other day I found out that in two-ish weeks I have to get the liquid in my left eyeball sucked out and replaced with a gas so they can fix my retina.

The news came unexpected to me and very sudden, and I think my shock is over and I am realizing now, 'what the hell am I supposed to do?'

My understanding is that the gas is inserted in your eye to create pressure on your retina so that it can heal, and during the two weeks after the surgery I am to remain in a face down position so the gas floats above whatever liquid is left in my eye (?) and pushes on the retina, which is of course at the back.

So . . . do I cut a hole in my mattress? How do I avoid suffocating when I'm sleeping, or prevent turning my head onto its side while I'm asleep? Am I suppose to stare at the floor for 16 hours a day when I'm awake? Should I go to the library now and sign out 300 books?! Does it get easier to read with one eye, it is quite difficult when I try it now. Do TVs get damaged or even operate in a horizontal position?

By chance, has anyone, or does anyone know someone who has had something like this done? And how did they cope!? Suggestions welcome.