---
title: What is macular hole?
description: "A [macular hole](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-a-macular-hole-understanding-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/) is a full-thickness break in the central retina at the macula. It causes blurred and distorted central vision, often making reading and recognising faces more difficult. ## How macular holes form Most macular holes are related to…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-is-macular-hole/"
updated: "2026-01-11"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What is macular hole?

A [macular hole](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-a-macular-hole-understanding-causes-symptoms-and-treatment/) is a full-thickness break in the central retina at the macula. It causes blurred and distorted central vision, often making reading and recognising faces more difficult.

## How macular holes form

Most macular holes are related to age-related changes in the vitreous, which can pull on the macula as it separates. Trauma, high myopia and previous retinal surgery are other recognised risk factors.

- Symptoms may include a central blur, distortion or a small missing patch
- Early-stage holes can sometimes close spontaneously
- Established holes are usually treated with vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane peel
- Gas is often placed in the eye and specific head positioning may be advised