How long does sf6 gas stay in your eye after macular hole repair

Posted by cope5 @cope5, May 6 9:03pm

I need to have my macular hole repaired and I am wondering how long the sf6 gas stays in your eye. I have been told anywhere from 2-3weeks. I understand I can't fly until the bubble is gone but I am flying cross country for the procedure and am hoping it is more like 2 weeks for the bubble to be gone. I don't think I can be away from home for more than 2 weeks.
Anyone that had sf6 gas, can you please share your experience and time frame.
Thank you

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elknc | @elknc | May 7 10:01am

I was told 6 to 8 weeks. I'm at 13 days right now and the water level in my left eye is about 80%. I'm not supposed to go anywhere higher then 2000' above sea level. I had a retina repair from two tears and they attempted to repair the macular hole as well.
He said it would be a month or so before they would be able to scan my retina to get a better idea how it is healing and if the hole was closed. Definitely not an easy fix.

cope5 | @cope5 | May 8 3:06pm

Thank you for your reply. I was told the shorter acting gas, sf6 would be 2-3 weeks and the longer acting gas would be 6-8 weeks. I have read not to go higher than anywhere from 1,000 to 2500 ft above sea level. So it is confusing.
I have had this macular hole for awhile and it is considered large so I not confident it can be closed with an improvement in my eyesight. Good luck with your procedures.

elknc | @elknc | May 9 8:20pm

Well good luck. I either imagined or was told it was only 2 or 3 weeks. But at my last appointment on Monday she said 6 to 8 weeks.
Had I not asked, my trip to Asheville could have been a disaster. I'm glad I asked.