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Macular Hole at Battersea Hospital
EYE CARE

Macular Hole Treatment and Surgery

Consultant-led diagnosis and personalised treatment for macular holes in London.

A macular hole is a small opening in the centre of the retina, known as the macula. Because the macula is responsible for detailed central vision, a macular hole can make reading, recognising faces and seeing fine detail more difficult.

At Battersea Hospital, our consultant ophthalmologists provide thorough assessment and personalised treatment planning for macular holes.

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What is a Macular Hole?

A macular hole affects the central area of the retina that provides detailed vision. It is not the same as a retinal detachment or age-related macular degeneration, although an ophthalmologist will assess for other retinal conditions as part of the examination.

Symptoms

Symptoms can include blurred or distorted central vision, difficulty reading or recognising faces, straight lines appearing bent, and a dark or missing patch in the centre of vision.

Diagnosis

A consultant ophthalmologist will examine your eyes and usually use optical coherence tomography (OCT) to confirm the diagnosis, assess the size of the hole and plan treatment.

Treatment

Some very early holes may be monitored. When surgery is advised, treatment is usually a vitrectomy with a delicate membrane peel and a temporary gas bubble to support healing.

TREATMENT DETAILS

At a Glance.

Area affected

Macula (central retina)

Common symptoms

Blurred or distorted central vision

Diagnosis

Eye examination and OCT scan

Main treatment

Vitrectomy with membrane peel and temporary gas bubble

Anaesthetic

Usually local anaesthetic

Recovery

Vision can improve gradually over several months

EYE CARE

When should I see an ophthalmologist?

Prompt assessment is important if you notice a change in your central vision.

A macular hole should be assessed by an ophthalmologist, particularly if symptoms are new, worsening or affecting everyday activities. Your consultant will discuss whether monitoring or surgery is the most appropriate option for your eye and visual needs.

  • Blurred, distorted or missing central vision.
  • Difficulty reading, driving or recognising faces.
  • Straight lines appearing bent or wavy.
  • A dark or grey patch in the centre of vision.
  • New or worsening changes in one eye.
WHY CHOOSE US

Why Choose Battersea Hospital?

01

Specialist Retinal Assessment

Consultant-led assessment and OCT imaging to support an accurate diagnosis and clear plan.

02

Personalised Treatment Planning

Monitoring and surgical recommendations are tailored to your eye, symptoms and visual needs.

03

Modern Vitreoretinal Surgery

When surgery is appropriate, we use established microsurgical techniques for retinal conditions.

04

Dedicated Aftercare

You will receive clear recovery guidance and scheduled follow-up after treatment.

TREATMENT AND RECOVERY

Macular Hole Surgery and Recovery

Macular hole surgery usually takes around 45 to 90 minutes and is often performed under local anaesthetic. Your surgeon may recommend face-down positioning for a period after surgery, depending on the characteristics of the hole and the treatment used.Vision commonly improves gradually over several months. The result depends on factors including the size and duration of the macular hole and the condition of the retina before surgery.

VIEW BEFORE AND AFTER GALLERY

Patient Review.

MEET YOUR SURGEONS

Choose Your Consultant

Macular hole consultations are available with Dr Sarit Lesnik Oberstein and Mr Simon Horgan. Your consultant will assess your symptoms and scans, explain the available options and recommend a personalised plan.

TREATMENT PRICING

Cost

The cost of macular hole treatment depends on the assessment, the complexity of the surgery and the aftercare required. Following your consultation, you will receive a personalised treatment plan and clear quotation.

REQUEST A PERSONALISED QUOTE

Finance Options Available

Our Patient Care Team will be happy to discuss the available options and help you find the most suitable payment plan before or during your consultation.

  • 6 or 10 months interest-free (0% APR)
  • 12 to 60 month finance options (14.9%)
  • Simple online application process
  • Fast approval decisions
  • Flexible monthly repayments
DISCUSS FINANCE OPTIONS
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Book Your Consultation

Expert assessment for central-vision changes

Your consultation includes a detailed eye examination and OCT imaging where appropriate. We will explain your diagnosis, answer your questions and discuss whether monitoring or surgery is right for you.

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EYE CARE

Frequently Asked Questions

Macular hole information

Your consultant will give you advice that is specific to your diagnosis and treatment plan.

Macular Hole Treatment

What is a macular hole?

A macular hole is a small opening in the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. It can cause blurred or distorted central vision.

Some very early holes may be monitored, but many full-thickness macular holes need surgical repair. Your consultant will advise based on your examination and OCT scan.

Surgery is usually a vitrectomy with removal of fine membranes on the retinal surface. A temporary gas bubble is commonly used to support healing.

Your surgeon will tell you whether face-down positioning is recommended. If a gas bubble is used, you must not fly or travel to high altitude until your surgeon confirms it is safe.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you have been diagnosed with a macular hole or have noticed a change in your central vision, our ophthalmology team is here to help. Book a consultation for an expert assessment and personalised treatment plan.

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