OBJECTIVE To investigate the cause of visual loss following removal of intraocular silicone oil in patients who underwent vitrectomies for retinal detachment or giant retinal tear. METHODS The clinical records of three cases with visual loss following removal of silicone oil were reviewed. Investigations carried out included fundus fluorescein angiogram, optical coherence tomography, and electrophysiological studies. RESULTS Visual acuities dropped from 6/9 to 6/36 in two cases and 6/24 to 3/24 in the third. None of the three cases had macula detachment at any stage. Fundus fluorescein angiogram and optical coherence tomography were normal in all cases. Pattern electroretinogram showed reduced amplitudes of the P50 and N95 components. Multifocal electroretinogram indicated a selective damage to the central part of the macula. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that the abnormality arises predominantly in the central part of the macula, especially the outer and middle layers. However, the exact mechanism still remains obscure.