Epiretinal Membrane Treatment
Also known as a macular pucker, an epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of scar tissue on the retina that causes distorted and blurred vision.
Dr. George Par, MD performs advanced membrane peeling surgery to restore clearer, straighter vision.
Schedule Consultation: (702) 702-2002What Is an Epiretinal Membrane?
An epiretinal membrane (ERM) is a thin sheet of fibrous tissue that grows on the surface of the retina, specifically over the macula — the area responsible for sharp central vision. As this membrane contracts, it wrinkles the underlying retina like a piece of cellophane, causing visual distortion.
Epiretinal membranes are common, affecting about 2% of people over age 50 and up to 20% of those over 75. Many ERMs are mild and require no treatment. However, when the membrane causes significant vision distortion or interferes with daily activities, surgery can be highly effective.
Common Symptoms
- Blurred or decreased central vision
- Distorted vision — straight lines appear wavy or bent
- Difficulty reading fine print
- Double vision in one eye (monocular diplopia)
- Objects may appear different sizes in each eye
Epiretinal Membrane
Retinal wrinkling visualization
What Causes Epiretinal Membranes?
Idiopathic (Most Common)
Most epiretinal membranes develop spontaneously with aging as the vitreous gel naturally separates from the retina (posterior vitreous detachment). Cells can migrate onto the retinal surface and form a membrane.
Secondary Causes
- • Previous retinal tears or detachment
- • Prior eye surgery (cataract surgery, retinal surgery)
- • Retinal vascular disease (vein occlusions, diabetic retinopathy)
- • Eye inflammation (uveitis)
- • Eye trauma
Treatment Options
Observation
Mild epiretinal membranes that cause minimal symptoms may not require surgery. Dr. Par will monitor your membrane with regular OCT imaging and eye exams to track any progression.
Best for: Mild ERMs with minimal vision impact
Vitrectomy with Membrane Peeling
When the membrane significantly affects your vision, surgery is highly effective. Dr. Par carefully peels the membrane from the retinal surface using microsurgical instruments, allowing the retina to flatten and vision to improve.
Best for: ERMs causing significant distortion or vision loss
What to Expect from Surgery
Outpatient procedure — you go home the same day
Local anesthesia for comfort during the procedure
Small-gauge (tiny) instruments — often no stitches needed
The membrane is carefully peeled from the retinal surface under high-powered microscope
No face-down positioning required (unlike macular hole surgery)
Vision improvement is gradual over weeks to months
Most patients notice significant reduction in distortion
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I have epiretinal membrane surgery?
Surgery is recommended when the membrane causes enough distortion or vision loss to interfere with your daily activities — reading, driving, recognizing faces. Dr. Par will discuss the risks and benefits based on your specific situation and help you decide the right timing.
Can an epiretinal membrane come back after surgery?
Recurrence is uncommon, occurring in approximately 5-10% of cases. Dr. Par uses meticulous surgical technique including internal limiting membrane (ILM) peeling when appropriate, which helps reduce the risk of recurrence.
How long does recovery take?
You can typically resume most daily activities within a few days. Vision improvement is gradual — many patients notice reduced distortion within the first few weeks, with continued improvement over 3-6 months. Unlike macular hole surgery, face-down positioning is usually not required.
Straighten Your Vision
If wavy or distorted vision is affecting your quality of life, epiretinal membrane surgery can help restore clearer vision. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Par to discuss your options.
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