It Is Important to Seek Treatment for Macular Holes

Macular holes often develop with age, and can result in blurred and distorted vision. Without treatment, a macular hole can result in loss of vision in the affected eye. Contact us today to learn more.

Causes & Symptoms of Macular Holes

Most macular holes are age-related, usually occurring in patients over the age of 60.  Unless associated with trauma, macular holes typically develop slowly. Early on, you may notice a slight blurriness or distortion when viewing objects. You may also begin to perceive straight lines and objects as being bent or appearing wavy.

There are three different stages of macular holes:

  • Stage I is known as a foveal detachment because the foveal depression is lost.
  • Stage II macular holes are partial-thickness holes.
  • Stage III macular holes are full-thickness macular holes.

The size of the hole and its location on the retina determine how much vision is affected.  When a Stage III macular hole develops, central vision can be significantly compromised.

It is important to seek immediate treatment if you begin to notice any changes in your vision. If you develop a macular hole in one eye, there is a 10 to 15 percent chance that you could develop a macular hole in your other eye. Without treatment, you risk the advancement of the condition and the possibility of losing your vision in that eye.

Some macular holes resolve without treatment. 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. This bubble can hold the macula in place, acting as a temporary bandage during healing.

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