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.