What Happens During Macular Hole Surgery?

If you or a loved one is experiencing distorted vision or blurred central vision, you may be wondering about macular hole surgery and what the procedure entails. A macular hole is a small tear in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. Without timely treatment, this condition can impact your quality of life. Fortunately, macular hole surgery can restore your vision and prevent further damage. 

 Macular hole surgery involves making small incisions in the eye through which the vitreous gel is carefully removed. A small gas bubble is then placed inside the eye to press against the macular hole, encouraging it to close and heal. 

Below, we'll explore what causes a macular hole, explain the surgical process, and provide information about recovery from macular hole surgery in St. Louis, MO. Call Retina Associates of St. Louis to book an appointment and learn more. 

What causes a macular hole? 

You may be asking yourself, "What causes a macular hole?" The answer often lies in age-related changes within the eye. Over time, the vitreous gel inside the eye can shrink, pulling away from the macula. This process, called posterior vitreous detachment, sometimes creates enough tension to cause a macular tear. 

Other potential causes include:  

• Eye injuries or trauma that damage the retina 
• Long-term retinal disorders, such as diabetic retinopathy 
• Severe nearsightedness (myopia), which increases eye strain 
• Surgical complications from previous eye procedures 

Early symptoms, such as distorted vision or blurred central vision, require a consultation with a specialist. At Retina Associates of St. Louis, we specialize in macular hole surgery to help preserve and restore your sight. 

Understanding macular hole surgery 

Macular hole surgery is designed to repair the tear in the macula. Here's a breakdown of what happens during surgery in St. Louis, MO:  

• Removing the vitreous gel: The first step involves removing the vitreous gel. Small incisions are made in the eye to allow for precise removal. 
• Placing a gas bubble: A specialized gas bubble is carefully inserted into the eye. This bubble presses against the macular hole, closing it and allowing the tissue to heal properly. 
• Healing and absorption: Over the coming weeks, the eye gradually absorbs the gas bubble and is replaced with natural fluids. The closing of the hole leads to improved central vision. 

Recovery from macular hole surgery 

Here's a general overview of what to expect from recovery:  

• Face-down positioning: For the gas bubble to remain in contact with the macula, most patients need to maintain a face-down position for several days or even weeks after surgery. This helps the macular tear close effectively. 
• Visual recovery: Initially, vision in the treated eye may appear blurry or distorted, but this typically improves as the retina heals. Recovery can take weeks to months, based on the severity of the macular hole. 
• Post-op care: Recovery from macular hole surgery requires following post-procedure guidelines to ensure the best results possible. This includes using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities, and attending follow-up appointments. 

Contact us for advanced retinal care 

Macular holes can seem intimidating, but timely diagnosis and treatment make a world of difference. At Retina Associates of St. Louis, we provide experienced care, from the initial diagnosis to post-surgical recovery. 

If you're experiencing distorted vision, blurred central vision, or other symptoms of a macular tear, contact us in St. Louis, MO. Our knowledgeable team can guide you through your treatment options and ensure a high standard of care.