Epiretinal Membrane Surgery
An Epiretinal Membrane is a thin layer of scar tissue that forms on the surface of the retina, most often over the macula, the area responsible for fine, detailed central vision.
Most epiretinal membranes develop as part of natural ageing process, and often related to posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), the process during which the gel (vitreous) that fills the eye separates from the back of the eye. As the vitreous gel moves away from the retina, it can trigger a healing response that leads to membrane formation.
In other cases, epiretinal membranes may occur secondary to other conditions, such as retinal tears, inflammation, trauma or previous surgery, and vascular disorders.
Many epiretinal membranes may remain “silent” and cause no or very mild symptoms for long periods of time. However, some of them can contract and cause alterations in the shape of the retina, including puckering of the macula or other changes.
Symptoms vary, but can include one or more of the following:
– Blurred or hazy vision
– Wavy or distorted lines and shapes (metamorphopsia)
– Difficulty reading or seeing fine detail
– A sense that images are “not quite right” or out-of-focus
Fortunately, when symptoms become intrusive or affect daily activities, treatment is available and highly effective at reducing distortion and restoring clarity in your vision.
The main treatment for an epiretinal membrane is an operation called a vitrectomy. During this procedure your surgeon will remove the vitreous gel inside the eye, and with very delicate microsurgical instruments will gently peel the thin membrane away from the macula. This releases traction, allowing the retina to relax and improving clarity over time.
Vitrectomy with epiretinal membrane peel is a routinely performed operation, with minimal disruption and excellent safety profile. Recovery is usually smooth, and while improvement is gradual, most patients experience clearer vision and improved distortion in the weeks and months after surgery.
Epiretinal membrane surgery is frequently combined with cataract surgery, allowing both issues to be treated at the same operation. Modern cataract solutions can ensure the clearest possible vision and greater spectacles independence after surgery.
If an epiretinal membrane is affecting your reading, work or day-to-day life, you don’t need to wait for things to worsen.
We offer personalised care, precise surgical techniques, and full support throughout your recovery, helping you regain clearer more comfortable vision with confidence. Take the next step and book your appointment today.
Your questions answered
Do all epiretinal membranes need treatment?
No. Many epiretinal membranes remain stable and cause little or no visual disturbance. Treatment is recommended if symptoms such as distortion or blurred vision start interfere with your daily activities.
Will an epiretinal membrane get worse over time?
Some remain unchanged for years, while others will contract and distortion the macula. Surgery at the right time can protect the vision.
Can glasses help with the symptoms?
Unfortunately, no. Glasses can improve general clarity, but not the distortion or blurred vision caused by an epiretinal membrane.
How long can recovery take?
Recovery in generally quick and most patients can resume normal activities the week following surgery. Improvement of symptoms is more gradual. Some people may experience early benefits, but improvement may take several weeks or months.
Will I need cataract surgery as well?
Epiretinal membrane surgery, like every vitrectomy, can accelerate cataract formation if natural lens is still present. For this reason many patient choose combined cataract and epiretinal membrane surgery to ensure a single recovery time.
Can the membrane come back after surgery?
It is uncommon, but possible. Modern surgical techniques make recurrence highly unlikely.