Macular hole surgery: helpful tips for preoperative planning and postoperative face-down positioning.

This discussion summarizes recommendations designed to assist the patient undergoing macular hole surgery in which a long-acting intraocular gas is used. These recommendations include suggestions for the patient's preoperative planning, postoperative expectations, face-down positioning, and recommended activities. Specific recommendations to help the patient more comfortably comply with the awkward positioning required for successful macular hole closure are included.