Macular Hole

Blurry vision, particularly in your central vision, could be a symptom of a macular hole. At Atlantic Retina Consultants in Melbourne, Merritt Island, Palm Bay, Titusville, and Rockledge, Florida, exceptional Retinal Specialist Hetal Vaishnav, MD, Gary Ganiban, MD, and their team diagnose and treat this condition, which affects nearly 8 of every 100,000 people each year. Schedule an eye evaluation by calling the nearest Atlantic Retina Consultants office or using the online booking feature today.

What is a macular hole?

A macular hole is a condition that affects the macula, a part of the retina. It affects central vision and often the ability to read, drive, and complete other daily life activities. A macular hole usually involves just one eye but can appear in both eyes. It can result after the jellylike substance (vitreous humor) shrinks within the eye and pulls on the macula.

Which symptoms can a macular hole cause?

A macular hole can lead to:

• Distorted vision
• Blurry vision
• Straight lines appearing wavy or curvy
• Problems reading small print
• Dark or blind spot in your central vision
• Loss of central vision

See your eye doctor at the first sign of any vision changes or other unusual symptoms.

Complications that can occur because of an untreated macular hole include retinal detachment and a larger macular hole.

What are the risk factors for a macular hole?

Factors that increase the risk of developing a macular hole include:

• Being a woman
• Being 55 or older
• Eye injury or trauma
• Eye inflammation
• Being nearsighted

Primary macular holes develop without injuries or underlying medical conditions, while secondary macular holes generally appear because of a medical issue, trauma, or inflammation.

How is a macular hole diagnosed?

The Atlantic Retina Consultants team diagnoses a macular hole by discussing your symptoms, medications, and medical history. They complete vision testing and a comprehensive eye exam after dilating your pupils to get an in-depth view of the inner part of your eyes. You might also undergo eye imaging procedures, like optical coherence tomography (OCT).

How is a macular hole treated?

Treating a macular hole often involves a vitrectomy, a surgery in which your specialist removes the vitreous gel from your eye and any membranes that are placing tension on the macula. You might have to remain in a facedown position for up to seven days after the procedure to ensure that the hole stays closed during the healing process. 

Sometimes, smaller macular holes close on their own. Your provider personalizes a treatment plan that maximizes your outcomes.

Schedule an eye evaluation at Atlantic Retina Consultants by phone or request one online today to determine if you have a macular hole.