The macular hole is an opening in the central area of the retina, that is, in the macula. The gel inside the eye (vitreous) can lose its volume and shrink over time.
When this gel deteriorates it can exert traction on the macula. In most cases, it separates without causing any negative effects. However, when this gel is tightly adhered to the central region of the retina (macula), this traction can cause small openings in the center of the eye.
Macular holes generally appear in patients over 57 years of age, but can also occur in patients with large eyes (myopic) or who have received ocular trauma.