Conditions We Treat
Eye Diseases - Macular Holes
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To understand how macular holes occur, it is important to know a bit about eye anatomy. The macula, where holes sometimes develop, is a very small spot in the center of the back of the eye (retina). Light focuses to a sharp point at the macula, which is the only area of the eye that sees crystal clear, color vision (such as for driving or recognizing faces).
The macula also is full of light-sensitive cells called cones. The rest of the retina is made up of photosensitive cells called rods that see black and white shadings, shape and movement (such as for night vision and side vision).
Because macular holes often are related to aging processes, they are more likely to develop if you are over age 60. Women have a slightly higher risk for macular holes than men.