With more modern advances in surgery, everything has changed. The incisions are very small and constructed in a way that sutures are not commonly used. The need for head down position has changed as well. It is common for patients to keep their face down for only a few days, although the size of the hole and other factors are considered when the actual recommendations for macular hole surgery are made by VRM doctors.

Generally the patient uses eye drops for 2 to 3 weeks after the macular hole repair surgery. Complications of the surgery include an approximately 1% chance of causing a retinal tear or detachment that would require additional surgery to repair. There is about a 1 in 2,000 to 3,000 chance of getting an infection in the eye, which would require antibiotics for treatment.

Vitrectomy surgery causes cataracts to form sooner in life, probably because of increased oxygen delivery to the lens. The outside part of the eye looks normal within a couple of weeks but the vision may take months to reach its final level. Most patients with macular hole surgery improve by about 3 lines of visual acuity. A more complete description of what to expect during the surgery for macular hole, the possible complications, and how to use medications after surgery will be related to you by your doctor at VRM.

IS MACULAR HOLE TREATMENT RIGHT FOR ME?

At Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York, one of our ophthalmologists and retina specialists will meet with you during your consultation to assess your situation. We will explain each treatment option’s pros and cons and suggest which treatment to repair a macular hole is right for you. VRMNY eye surgery center in New York specializes in treating all medical and surgical retinal conditions, emphasizing Vitreomacular Traction and Macular Hole. Request an appointment online or call the internationally-renowned retina specialists and best-rated Macular Hole Doctors at (212) 861-9797 to schedule your private consultation.