Macular holes are a less common eye condition, only affecting approximately eight people out of every 100,000. If you know or suspect you have a macular hole in your eye, you likely have some questions about the condition and its treatment options. In today’s blog post, we’re answering some of the most frequently asked questions about macular holes. Keep reading to learn more.

What is a macular hole?

A macular hole is a small opening or defect in the center of the macula, which is a part of the retina located at the back of the eye. The macula is responsible for central vision, which is crucial for tasks like reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Macular holes can cause symptoms like blurred vision, distorted vision, or straight objects appearing bent.

What causes macular holes?

The exact cause of macular holes is not fully understood. Age-related changes in the vitreous, a gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye, may be a contributing factor. As the vitreous ages, it can shrink and pull on the macula, leading to the formation of a hole.

Can macular holes be prevented?

There are no proven ways to prevent macular holes. However, some measures may help promote eye health and reduce the risk of macular holes, such as regular eye exams, managing underlying health conditions such as diabetes or high myopia, and protecting your eyes from trauma or injury.

Who is at risk for developing macular holes?

Macular holes are more commonly found in people over the age of 60, and the risk increases with age. Other risk factors include being female, having a family history of macular holes, and having certain conditions such as nearsightedness, diabetic retinopathy, or a history of eye trauma or inflammation.

What are the symptoms of a macular hole?

The symptoms of a macular hole may include blurred or distorted central vision, a dark spot in the central vision, difficulty reading or performing tasks that require sharp central vision, and reduced color perception. Peripheral vision is usually not affected.

How is a macular hole diagnosed?

A macular hole is typically diagnosed by an eye care professional during a comprehensive eye exam. This may involve a dilated eye examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT) to obtain detailed images of the retina, and other tests as needed.

What are the treatment options for macular holes?

Some macular holes resolve on their own. For those that don’t, the main treatment option for macular holes is surgery. There are different surgical techniques available, including vitrectomy. Recovery and outcomes can vary depending on the size and location of the macular hole, as well as the overall health of the eye.

What does macular hole surgery entail?

For those that require intervention, the most common surgery is a vitrectomy. During this procedure, the vitreous gel is replaced with a bubble consisting of a gas and air mixture, or a saline solution. This bubble holds the macula in place, acting as a temporary bandage during healing. As it heals, the hole will naturally fill with an eye fluid called aqueous humor.

What is the success rate of macular hole surgery?

The success rate of macular hole surgery can vary depending on several factors, including the size and location of the macular hole, the surgical technique used, and the overall health of the eye. In general, the success rate of macular hole surgery is high, with most patients experiencing improvement in vision after surgery. However, it’s important to note that outcomes can vary, and some patients may not experience a complete restoration of vision.

What is the recovery process like after macular hole surgery?

The recovery process after macular hole surgery can vary, but it typically involves several weeks to months of healing. During this time, you may need to avoid certain activities that can strain the eye, such as heavy lifting, bending over, or rubbing the eye. You may also need to use eye drops and follow a specific post-operative care regimen as instructed by your eye care professional. Regular follow-up visits with your eye care professional will be important to monitor the healing process and assess visual outcomes.

How soon can I exercise after macular hole surgery?

We recommend waiting at least two weeks after macular hole surgery to exercise, to avoid straining your eyes in any way. When you do begin exercising again, start with gentle exercises and slowly increase intensity.

Learn more about macular holes, including symptoms and treatment options. If you live in Austin and suspect you are developing a macular hole, contact our office today. We’ll schedule an appointment to evaluate your eyes and pursue treatment if necessary. Our ophthalmologists are experienced in treating macular holes so that you can enjoy your vision for as long as possible.