A macular hole is a small break in the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. Early diagnosis and treatment can often improve or restore vision.
A macular hole occurs when a small gap or opening forms in the macula, the part of the retina that controls straight-ahead vision. This disrupts sharp central vision, making it harder to read, drive, or see fine details.
Macular holes are different from macular degeneration, though both affect the macula. They often result from age-related changes in the eye, but can also be caused by injury, severe nearsightedness, or retinal conditions.
Common symptoms of a macular hole include:
To confirm a macular hole, doctors may use:
Allows direct viewing of the retina and macula.
Produces high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina to measure the size and depth of the hole.
Check for loss of central detail and clarity.
Treatment depends on the size and stage of the macular hole:
Small or early holes may be monitored closely before deciding on treatment.
The most common procedure, where the vitreous gel inside the eye is removed and replaced with a gas bubble to help the hole close.
Patients may need to keep their head in a facedown position for several days to help the bubble seal the hole.
If vision loss remains, magnifiers or other aids can help with daily tasks.
Living with a macular hole can be challenging, but with proper care and support, many patients maintain independence. Helpful steps include:
At Retina Consultants of Hawaii, our specialists provide advanced treatment and compassionate care to help patients with macular holes preserve their vision and quality of life.
If you’re experiencing vision changes such as distortion or a dark spot in your central vision, speak with your current eye care provider. If a macular hole is suspected, they can coordinate specialized care with our team.
