A number of techniques may be used to position the head to allow the air bubble to work properly. During the day many people simply place a pillow on a table and bow forward, using the pillow to support the forehead. At night, sleeping on the stomach is most effective with the forehead elevated with a pillow to aid breathing or by turning the head to one side by using the side of a pillow. Complete disappearance of the air bubble may take up to six weeks, but the most important period for head positioning in the first two weeks. If you have not had cataract surgery, you will likely develop a cataract and may need surgery in the next few months.
Retinal detachment occurs in a small number of patients and is usually easily repairable.
In general, rigorous face-down positioning is encouraged for 14 days. The air bubble will slowly be absorbed by the body. It may persist in the vitreous space for as long as 3 to 6 weeks. Generally you should not fly until the bubble is completely gone. Your doctor may allow you to travel by air sooner if it is safe to do so.