What to Expect if You Have a Macular Hole

1. What to Expect if You Have a Macular Hole A macular hole is a serious eye condition, often needing immediate surgery to repair. The surgery performed is called a vitrectomy, which we are going to discuss in further detail, so you have a firm understanding of what you will have done along with home recovery. The good news with this surgery is that you can return home to recover in comfort in familiar surroundings. It is reported that recovery at home is often faster and more comfortable for patients. Being in familiar surroundings with family can help to speed up recovery time considerably. The vitrectomy is a common surgical procedure which is carried out thousands of times each day around the world. It's a fast and effective surgery, though of course no eye surgery should be done without fully understanding the facts, how the surgery is performed, recovery and of course and risks that may be associated with the surgery. The first thing you need to know, especially if you are nervous, is that the vitrectomy can be performed under local anaesthetic, which means you are awake throughout the procedure, so you can chat to the doctors and nurses. In some instances, you may be offered general anaesthetic, which means you are asleep throughout the surgery. If you are very nervous, general may be offered to ensure you don't move around too much and that they can complete the procedure quickly and effectively. A vitrecomy for macular hole is a relatively quick procedure, but it does require the surgeon cutting into the outer layer of the eye to reach the vitreous gel, which sits behind the eye. The vitreous gel is responsible for your eye shape and is removed with a syringe. The gel is then replaced with a saline or gas, depending on the surgeon. The great news is that you can go home the same day, unless there are some unexpected complications. Ensure when you go home that you follow the surgeons strict instructions for your recovery. This will include using antibiotic eye drops in your eyes a certain amount per day along with holding your head in a certain position to allow the new gas or saline to hold in place. This is the most frustrating time of the entire macular hole surgery experience. Most people find lying with their face down for a week or two is exhausting and frustrating, not to mention exceptionally boring.

2. Now that you understand the procedure, the recovery and the surgeon instructions, it's time to look at some of the risks associated with macular hole surgery. The risks include an increased risk of cataracts, a possibility of retinal detachment and of course infection. This is why you will want to follow your recovery instructions to reduce the risk of infection and to assist the healing process. When it comes to macular hole surgery your general practitioner or optician will send you to a consultant ophthalmologist. The ophthalmologist is the surgeon that will perform the vitrectomy. It is recommended to find a ophthalmologist in your local area, so you can go home after the surgery to recovery. When choosing an ophthalmologist for macular hole surgery you want to ensure that they have a proven track record for their years of experience and their successful victrectomy procedures. Always double check that any ophthalmologist you choose is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, if in the United Kingdom. This can provide you with the peace of mind you need to know your procedure will be handled quickly and effectively. About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit http://www.retinasurgeon.uk 119 Harley Street London United Kingdom (W1G6AU) Contact Us: 7717203564 www.retinasurgeon.uk.com