Restoring Central Vision with Advanced Retinal Microsurgery
The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision—essential for reading, driving, and recognizing faces. When a macular hole develops, it can cause blurry or distorted central vision, making daily activities challenging.
At Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai and Abu Dhabi, our highly trained retinal surgeons perform state-of-the-art macular hole surgery using modern vitreoretinal techniques. This delicate operation restores the normal structure of the retina, helping patients regain clearer and sharper central vision
❓ What Is a Macular Hole?
A macular hole is a small break or defect in the central part of the retina, known as the macula. The retina functions much like a camera’s film—capturing images and sending them to the brain through the optic nerve.
When a hole forms in the macula, it disrupts this process, resulting in blurry or distorted central vision. While peripheral (side) vision remains intact, activities requiring sharp focus—like reading or sewing—become difficult.
✔️ Macular holes typically occur in individuals over 60 years old.
✔️ They may develop gradually or due to trauma or retinal disease.
✔️ If untreated, vision can worsen over time, though total blindness is rare.
❓ What Causes Macular Holes?
Several factors can contribute to the formation of a macular hole:
✔️ Vitreous shrinkage or separation (a natural part of aging).
✔️ Diabetic eye disease that damages the retinal surface.
✔️ Severe myopia (nearsightedness) which stretches the retina.
✔️ Macular pucker—a wrinkle or membrane that pulls on the retina.
✔️ Retinal detachment that distorts the macula.
✔️ Eye trauma or injury.
Early detection through an eye examination is key to successful treatment.
🔍 Symptoms of a Macular Hole
Patients may notice:
✔️ Blurred or cloudy central vision.
✔️ Straight lines appearing bent or wavy.
✔️ Difficulty reading or recognizing faces.
✔️ A small gray or dark spot in the center of vision.
These symptoms often progress slowly. Many patients seek help after noticing distortion in one eye, especially when covering the other.
🙋♂️ Who Is a Good Candidate for Macular Hole Surgery?
✔️ Patients with diagnosed full-thickness or partial macular holes.
✔️ Individuals experiencing distortion or loss of central vision.
✔️ Those with no active eye infections or uncontrolled medical conditions.
✔️ Patients able to follow post-operative positioning instructions.
Early surgical intervention leads to better visual recovery, making prompt evaluation essential.
🔍 Types of Macular Hole Surgery
The only effective treatment for a macular hole is vitrectomy surgery, a delicate microsurgical procedure performed under a surgical microscope.
✅ Vitrectomy with Gas Tamponade
During surgery, the surgeon removes the vitreous gel—the clear substance that fills the eye—to eliminate pulling forces on the macula. Then, a small gas bubble is placed inside the eye to gently press the edges of the hole together, helping it close and heal.
✔️ Performed under local or general anaesthesia.
✔️ Usually takes around one hour.
✔️ Patients may need to position their head face-down for several days to keep the bubble in contact with the macula.
✔️ The gas bubble naturally dissolves over 2–8 weeks.
✅ Combined Surgery for Complicated Cases
In some patients with cataracts or advanced retinal changes, vitrectomy can be combined with cataract surgery during the same procedure. This reduces recovery time and improves visual outcomes.
✅ Success rates are high, especially when treated early after diagnosis.
🩺 Consultation & Preparation
Before surgery, you’ll meet with a retinal specialist who will:
✔️ Conduct a comprehensive eye examination using OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) to assess the macular hole.
✔️ Discuss your medical history and current medications.
✔️ Explain the surgical steps, anaesthesia options, and expected outcomes.
✔️ Provide guidance on pre-surgery instructions—such as fasting and avoiding blood-thinning medications.
Patients are encouraged to arrange transportation home after surgery, as driving immediately afterward is not permitted.
ℹ️ Recovery & Aftercare
Proper aftercare plays a major role in achieving the best surgical result.
✔️ You may experience mild discomfort, blurriness, or a foreign-body sensation for a few days.
✔️ The gas bubble will gradually absorb over several weeks, during which air travel and high-altitude trips must be avoided.
✔️ Your surgeon may recommend face-down positioning for several days to keep the bubble in place over the macula.
✔️ Eye drops are prescribed to prevent infection and promote healing.
✔️ Regular follow-up visits monitor healing and vision improvement.
Most patients notice visual improvement within 6–12 weeks. The degree of recovery depends on how long the hole existed before surgery.
🔍 Why Choose Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE?
✔️ Part of Moorfields London, the world’s oldest and most respected eye hospital.
✔️ UK-trained retinal specialists experienced in advanced macular and vitreoretinal surgery.
✔️ Cutting-edge technology including OCT imaging and high-resolution microscopes.
✔️ Comprehensive pre- and post-operative care plans for every patient.
✔️ Multilingual team supporting international patients in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
✔️ Proven surgical success rates and internationally recognized standards of care.
✅ Moorfields UAE provides excellence in medical precision, patient comfort, and visual outcomes.
💬 Patient Reviews
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Margaret H. – United Kingdom
“After my macular hole surgery, I regained the ability to read and recognize faces clearly. The improvement in my sight has been remarkable.”
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Youssef A. – Egypt
“The team at Moorfields was exceptional. The doctors explained everything and made me feel completely at ease before and after surgery.”
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Carla D. – Italy
“I was scared at first, but the recovery went smoothly. Within weeks, I noticed a huge difference in my central vision.”
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Pauline S. – Canada
“My retinal surgeon was outstanding—professional, caring, and highly skilled. I can finally enjoy reading again.”
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Ali R. – Saudi Arabia
“Moorfields Eye Hospital provided world-class care. The results exceeded my expectations.”
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Hiroko N. – Japan
“The instructions for recovery were clear, and my surgeon followed up regularly. My sight is much clearer now.”
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Sanjay K. – India
“The face-down positioning was challenging, but the team guided me every step of the way. The surgery was a success.”
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Denise B. – United States
“Excellent staff, advanced technology, and compassionate care. I highly recommend Moorfields for retinal surgery.”
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Hassan M. – UAE
“I had complete trust in my surgeon. The hospital’s professionalism made my experience smooth and stress-free.”
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Elena V. – Spain
“My central vision improved so much that I can now work and read again comfortably. I’m very grateful to the Moorfields team.”
A Legacy of Excellence from London to the United Arab Emirates
Moorfields Eye Hospital Dubai and Abu Dhabi are world-class centers of ophthalmic excellence, proudly affiliated with Moorfields Eye Hospital London — the world’s oldest and one of the largest institutions dedicated to eye care, teaching, and research.
Building on over two centuries of British heritage and expertise, Moorfields UAE offers cutting-edge diagnostics, surgical precision, and compassionate patient care, bringing internationally recognized ophthalmology standards to the heart of the Middle East.
Who We Are
Founded as extensions of the prestigious Moorfields Eye Hospital London, Moorfields Eye Hospitals in Dubai and Abu Dhabi provide the highest level of eye care across all ophthalmic subspecialties.
Each branch combines state-of-the-art facilities, internationally trained ophthalmologists, and advanced technology to diagnose and treat a wide range of eye conditions — from cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal disorders to complex pediatric and neuro-ophthalmic diseases.
Their mission is to operate to the highest clinical standards, mirroring their London counterpart, and to deliver the same trusted Moorfields quality of care within the UAE.
🌍International Patient Services
Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE welcomes patients from over 90 countries every year, offering dedicated support through its International Patient Department.
Services include:
✔️ Second medical opinions with personalized treatment plans from Moorfields specialists
✔️ Transparent cost estimates and package pricing
✔️ Multilingual staff and certified medical interpreters
✔️ Fast-track appointment scheduling and specialist consultations
✔️ Assistance with visas, travel, and accommodation
✔️ VIP airport transfers and concierge coordination
✔️ Post-treatment follow-up and medical reporting
Moorfields provides a seamless patient journey — from initial inquiry to full recovery — ensuring comfort, safety, and clarity every step of the way.
🌐 Why Moorfields Eye Hospital?
Mission:
To operate at the highest international clinical standards, provide comprehensive eye care across all age groups, advance ophthalmic research and education, and attract world-class specialists to the UAE.
Vision:
To be recognized as the leading eye hospital in the Middle East, offering exceptional, compassionate, and innovative eye care rooted in Moorfields’ global legacy.
Core Values:
✅ Professional – Upholding the rigorous Moorfields clinical and ethical standards.
✅ Friendly – Providing warmth, empathy, and reassurance to every patient.
✅ Helpful – Anticipating patient needs and exceeding expectations.
✅ Safe – Prioritizing patient safety and quality at all levels.
✅ Calm – Ensuring a stress-free, comforting clinical environment.
✅ Positive & Flexible – Embracing teamwork, adaptability, and continuous improvement.
🏅Accreditations & Standards
Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE delivers comprehensive adult and pediatric ophthalmology services, including:
✔️ Cataract Surgery – Advanced lens replacement and laser-assisted cataract procedures.
✔️ Glaucoma Management – Innovative pressure-control treatments for vision preservation.
✔️ Retina & Vitreous Services – Medical and surgical management of retinal diseases.
✔️ Cornea & Refractive Surgery – LASIK, PRK, and corneal transplants with precision technology.
✔️ Pediatric Ophthalmology – Specialized eye care for children including strabismus and amblyopia.
✔️ Oculoplastic & Reconstructive Surgery – Cosmetic and functional eyelid and orbital procedures.
✔️ Neuro-Ophthalmology – Diagnosis and treatment of vision problems linked to neurological disorders.
✔️ Genetic Eye Disease & Ocular Oncology Services – Early detection and personalized management.
Each department integrates clinical excellence, patient education, and research collaboration with Moorfields London.
🛬 A Global Eye Care Destination
Located in Dubai Healthcare City and Abu Dhabi, Moorfields UAE is easily accessible for international travelers, with nearby 5-star hotels such as Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk and Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights, and airline partners Emirates and Fly Dubai offering extensive global connections.
Patients from Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia choose Moorfields UAE for its trusted British medical heritage, advanced technology, and exceptional continuity of care.
🌐 Why Choose Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE
✔️ Backed by the heritage and expertise of Moorfields Eye Hospital London
✔️ The first international branch of a globally renowned eye care institution
✔️ Highly qualified consultants trained in the UK and Europe
✔️ Comprehensive ophthalmic services for adults and children
✔️ State-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical technology
✔️ Multilingual, patient-focused staff providing personalized care
✔️ Commitment to education and research, fostering innovation in the region
✔️ Strategic locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi for easy global access
Why Choose Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE
- Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE brings over 200 years of ophthalmic excellence from London to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering patients world-class care in one of the region’s leading medical destinations.
- Located in Dubai Health Care City and Marina Village Abu Dhabi, both branches are easily accessible from major international airports, making travel simple and stress-free for international patients.
- Moorfields Eye Hospital UAE is affiliated with Moorfields Eye Hospital London, and follows Joint Commission International (JCI) standards — ensuring the highest levels of patient safety and medical quality.
- The hospital’s team includes fellowship-trained ophthalmologists from the UK and other leading global institutions, specializing in every area of eye care — from complex retinal surgery to pediatric ophthalmology.
- Communication is seamless. The hospital’s staff speak English, Arabic, and multiple international languages, ensuring comfort and clarity for every patient.
- Each patient receives a tailored treatment plan, often beginning with a virtual consultation, followed by seamless coordination of appointments, procedures, and recovery.
- Moorfields offers comprehensive eye care under one roof — including cataract, glaucoma, corneal, retina, oculoplastic, and refractive surgery, as well as pediatric eye care and vision correction.
- The hospital provides concierge-style support for international patients — helping arrange travel, accommodation, airport transfers, and post-treatment follow-up for a smooth medical journey.
- Moorfields facilities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are designed for patient comfort, with state-of-the-art technology, strict hygiene standards, and private, welcoming environments.
- Patients can combine their medical visit with a memorable trip. The UAE offers world-class hotels, shopping, beaches, desert adventures, and cultural experiences — all within one of the safest and most modern countries in the world.
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