We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Procedures

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What Should I Expect from Macular Hole Surgery?

By Erin Oxendine
Updated: Mar 03, 2024
Views: 17,965
Share

Macular hole surgery is performed by doctors for the treatment of a macular hole in the eye. These holes occur when the vitreous separates from the eye causing a small hole to develop in the retina. If the hole is not treated, vitreous fluid can build up in the hole causing blurred vision, dark spots and problems reading. The surgical procedure to repair the macular hole is a vitrectomy. The surgery requires extensive follow-up and has several risks associated with the procedure.

Patients have this surgery under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. During the vitrectomy, the surgeon takes out the vitreous fluid from the hole and cleans the eye. The surgeon then fills the hole with air and gas, making a small bubble. The bubble works as a bandage and is gradually absorbed by the eye. When the surgery is finished, the surgeon will put a patch over the patient’s eye and send the patient home a few hours later.

After the procedure, patients must stay in a face-down position for two to three weeks. This allows the surgically inserted bubble to press against the eye and attach itself to the macula. The bubble will slowly dissolve and the hole will fill up with the eye’s natural fluids. Since lying face-down is crucial to recovery, doctors will not allow individuals to have the procedure if they are unable to do so.

Long term post-operative treatment after macular hole surgery consists of eye drops for a few months and annual eye examinations. Individuals will need to have their vision monitored for visual defects and change in eye pressure. If a change in eye pressure is noted, doctors may recommend a visit to an eye specialist to check for cataracts.

There are several risks associated with having macular hole surgery that patients should be aware of. One such risk following macular hole surgery is the possibility of the patient developing cataracts. Individuals could also suffer retinal detachment and infections. Some people may experience vision problems after surgery that could be temporary or permanent. Physicians also advise patients not to travel by air shortly after the surgery because the increased air pressure could cause the eye bubble to pop.

Despite the risks, doctors indicate that vitrectomy surgery has a fair success rate. Factors for success include a person’s age, depth of the hole and the skill of the surgeon performing the macular hole surgery. However, there is a small chance that the patient could get a macular hole in the other eye.

Share
The Health Board is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
By anon88677 — On Jun 06, 2010

I am scheduled to have this procedure done in ten days. How am I to stay 'face down' for days?

Share
https://www.thehealthboard.com/what-should-i-expect-from-macular-hole-surgery.htm
Copy this link
The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.