How Macular Hole Surgery Helpful to Restore Vision?


Several eye problems can develop and interfere with your vision as you age. A macular hole is a potential cause of concern that usually occurs in people over age 60. A macular hole is a small break in the macula that is a central area of the retina. The macula is helpful for tasks such as reading and driving.
At Windy City Retina, Dr. Ankit Desai treats this condition with macular hole surgery and can restore the clear vision of patients.

What Causes Macular Holes?
Although several conditions cause macular holes this condition is most common in individuals of age 60 and over. Both men and women can get affected by this eye condition but women have a slightly higher risk.
Some of the conditions most commonly linked to a macular hole include:
  • Shrinkage or separation of the vitreous (the clear, gel-like material that gives the eyes its shape)
  • Severe nearsightedness
  • Macular pucker
  • Retinal detachment
  • Eye injury

The Surgical Procedure

It is considered that macular holes can seal themselves and require no treatment in case if it is in a small percentage, but most get worse without treatment. Vitrectomy for macular hole repair is the most common and effective treatment.
Macular hole surgery is typically performed under local anesthetic so that patients are awake and completely comfortable during the procedure and have minimal complications from anesthesia postoperatively.

At the beginning of this procedure, the surgeon creates three small holes. Through these holes, the surgeon removes the vitreous gel from inside the eye by making use of small surgical tools. After removing the vitreous gel from inside the eyes of the patient, the surgeon will peel back the thin membrane on the surface of the retina that surrounds the macular hole. After that, a mixture of air and gas used will put pressure on the macular hole to fill the eye.


Recovery
After eye surgery, your retina surgeon will use a protective shield to cover your eye. Eye drops will be prescribed to be used as indicated during recovery to minimize the risk of surgical complications. Minor discomfort and redness after surgery are common after macular hole surgery but it is recommended to take Acetaminophen in case if the patient has some pain.

Face-down positioning is one of the most important aspects of macular hole surgery recovery. The patient will be positioned face down immediately following the surgery. Patients may also be directed to do so themselves as they return to their homes. In face-down positioning, the pressure of the gas bubble facilitates macular hole closure (like a Band-Aid on a cut). We advise patients to look into renting a massage table so that they can remain more comfortable in this position as they recover.

Contact Us
If you are concerned about your vision or the health of your eyes, Ophthalmologist Joliet Illinois at windy city retina would be happy to help. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Ankit Desai (815)714-9115 for getting advice and the best treatment.