Understanding Macular Hole Surgery
My Mom had been thru eye surgery before for glaucoma. That surgery was a success and her eye pressure has been within normal range for a few years now. So we were both really surprised when the doctor told her that she needed to have Macular Hole Surgery. He explained that macular holes are generally a result of traction from the vitreous gel on the macula. Honestly it all makes no sense to me but I did understand that if left untreated her central vision would be at risk. The doctor went on to explain the procedure and how it all works. For the most part the odds of the surgery being a success were fairly good. He said roughly 70-90 percent of patients have a good portion of their vision saved or restored. The procedure itself required local anesthesia and was fairly quick. They inset a gas bubble into the eye that places gental preasure on the retina that causes the hole to close.
In my Mom's case she had some additional issues that were caused by her scar tissue from previous surgeries but the doctor still felt that she was a good candidate for Macular Hole Surgery. He felt confident that the hole could be closed and that we could save her vision. After having gone thru the years of glaucoma drops, pills, and eventual surgeries to save her vision it only made sense to move forward with this surgery as well. The doctor went on to inform us that these types of holes were fairly common in people. For the most part they happen during the 60's or 70's but they are not unusual by any means. The advances in eye health and science have helped to develop the surgery option as a way to correct the problem and save or improve a persons vision.
Mom was being very brave about her Macular Hole Surgery. In a few days this would all be over with and she could get on with her life. I am thankful that she was properly diagnosed. It was because of her regular visits to her eye care professional that the small hole was found in the first place. In a way the glaucoma was the reason we found out about the hole in her eye. She regularly has her pressure checked and also gets checked for cataracts. So far so good as far as they are concerned. Eye health is so important, especially as a person ages. It is important to see an eye doctor even when nothing is bothering you. You eyes need a check up just like your body does.
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