macular hole

[marydoll122]

My mother-in-law lives on her own and is to have an operation for a macular hole, should she come and live with us to help her recovery, as she wants to stay on her own but I think she need to stay here with us. If she does can you tell me for how long and what I need to do to help her.

[John1559]

If post op head down position is required (which it likely will be) I can tell from experience your mother will require your assistance.  The head down is very very difficult and places significant aches on the lower back and shoulders...She will need encouragement as well as helping with daily chores such as preparing food.

My wife under went this surgery recently and she managed to keep the head down positioniong for at least 90% of the day (including sleeping) for 7 weeks..We used (rented) the equipment designed to accomplish the head positioning...My wifes outcome has been excellent...GL

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear marydoll122,

I would recommend that you speak with her eyeMD to determine whether special positioning will be required.  It would definitely be helpful for her to have assistance after the surgery.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California