pseudo hole surgery

[keyluke24]

I have seen a few answers to my question.  I recently had cataract surgery and was then told I have a pseudo
hole in the macula.  Not knowing too much about this problem the specialist asked me if I wanted surgery. I
don't have a bad time seeing but since I am 80 years of age I do not know if I would want surgery at this time.
He also said I have a cholesterol ring in my eye and that it could break up and cause a mini stroke.  I think
he is an alarmist and never really explains too much. I worked for a neurosurgeon for 25 years so I am
knowledgeable in the medical field but not in ophthalmology.. I am thinking of getting a second opinion.  When I
told him my eye was tearing he said "I don't do tearing".  That kind of clinched it for me. But I am concerned as to
whether this pseudo hole will get worse and invade my vision.  This retina specialist is not the same one that
operated on my cataract.  I guess I have two questions. Do I need surgery for the pseudo hole and will the
cholesterol ring cause a problem.

[keyluke24]

I am sorry for the error.  My comment above was directed to you.

[keyluke24]

My doctor is now claiming that I might need membrane peel surgery.  Is this a common
surgical procedure on the eye?  After cataract surgery I still have a black spot and
although it might be a little worse than it was I can still get by with it.  He also claims
that the cholesterol ring I had in the eye is now gone. He also told me that I had an
irregular heartbeat and sent me for about six different cardiologist tests which all turned
out without a problem.  When I saw him the other day he said my heartbeat was now
normal.  Do you think it is time that I should get a second opinion?  He is not the easiest
doctor to talk to as when I saw him awhile back he said I would need pseudo hole
surgery now he is claiming I need the membrane peel. I am confused.

[keyluke24]

I want to thank you for answering my questions and also telling me in plain
English.  I wish all doctors acted the same.  Thanks again.

[Ray T Oyakawa, MD]

Most pseudoholes doe not need surgery.  The pseudohole is caused by a macular pucker and if the vision is diminished consider surgery.  Cholesterol ring breaking up and causing a stroke is BS.

Dr. O.