Does success hinge on the length of time between diagnoses and surgery?
When should the cataract be removed from the eye and what type of lens would you recommend for a patient who has not had a successful macular hole surgery and has never been able to wear contact lens due to sensitivities?
Thank you very much for all the info you have provided!
If it is a partial hole it can get worse. If it is a complete hole it can't really get any worse. I encourage the surgery if you feel up to it with the positioning and all, especially if it is a fairly new macular hole. You will get a cataract soon after usually and will later need cataract surgery. I have seen many patients with a nice improvement from the macular hole surgery.
MJK MD
Thank you for a clear explanation of macular hole surgery. Are patients encouraged to have the surgery to repair the hole and does the hole enlarge or cause further damage if left alone?
It depends on the size, duration, how well patient can position face down, health of the eye, other factors including experience of the surgeon. Lets just say it is not a slam dunk - maybe in the range of 60-70% chance of improving the size of the blind spot in your vision. Your vision will never be normal and probably not ever very good - just better than with a complete macular hole. If you haven't had cataract surgery - you will develop a cataract usually within a year or so requiring cataract surgery. Your surgeon can answer your questions - if not satisfied get a second opinion.
MJK MD