Macular hole repair is a vitreoretinal operation that aims to close a full-thickness defect in the macula and restore central vision. It is now a well-established procedure.
How the Hole Is Repaired
Vitrectomy removes the vitreous traction pulling on the macula, and the inner limiting membrane around the hole is peeled to relieve tangential forces. A gas bubble is then placed in the eye to press against the macula and encourage the hole to seal.
- Patients are often advised to adopt face-down or specific positioning for several days
- Success rates for anatomical closure are high, especially for smaller holes
- Complications include cataract progression, retinal detachment, and infection
- Vision usually improves but may not return to pre-hole levels
Recovery
As the gas bubble gradually absorbs, central vision clears and improvements become apparent over weeks. Timely surgery soon after diagnosis offers the best chance of visual recovery.
- Driving and flying are not allowed while the gas bubble is present
- Follow-up scans confirm closure and monitor the fellow eye
- Prompt attention to new symptoms in either eye remains important
- Rehabilitation aids can help with reading during the healing phase
