That sounds like a very familiar operation....in fact, if you had to reattach a retina, that's exactly what I had to have done eight years ago. They had put a fluid in there as well to keep it there, however, the downside to the operation is I received a cataract in that eye. I've never had it taken out, and unless it nearly makes me blind, I don't plan to either.
Best of luck on your road to recovery. I remember I didn't do anything for two weeks...and had to keep my head in a certain position--down so the fluid would press against the retina. Is this what you have to do as well?