When Is It Time to Treat an Epiretinal Membrane?
Submitted by Michael J. Elman, M.D. on June 15, 2025
An epiretinal membrane (ERM), also called macular pucker or cellophane maculopathy, is a thin layer of fibrous tissue that forms on the surface of the macula. The macula is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. While some ERMs are mild and cause little to no visual disruption, others can significantly distort vision, making it difficult to read, drive, or recognize faces. But how do you know when it’s time to consider treatment? The accomplished, research-driven eye doctors at Elman Retina Group weigh in below.
When Monitoring Is Enough
Our experienced retina specialists carefully evaluate the degree of vision changes and macular distortion before recommending treatment. In many cases, close observation is the first step. If you have no symptoms or only mild vision changes, these can often be monitored with regular eye exams and imaging, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT). Some ERMs remain stable or progress so slowly that intervention may never be necessary.
Signs It’s Time to Consider Surgery
Treatment becomes a consideration when the membrane begins to contract or thicken, causing noticeable changes in vision. Have you noticed increased blurriness, distortion (straight lines appearing wavy), or difficulty performing everyday tasks? When these symptoms start to affect quality of life, surgery may be the most effective way to restore clearer vision.
Understanding the Surgical Option
The standard treatment for a symptomatic epiretinal membrane is a procedure called vitrectomy. During this surgery, your vitreous gel is removed, and your membrane is carefully peeled from the surface of your retina. This delicate procedure is performed under local anesthesia and typically does not require an overnight hospital stay. While most patients experience improved vision, particularly a reduction in distortion, the degree of improvement varies depending on the duration of the membrane’s presence and the overall health of the macula.
Why Timing Matters
Timing is an important factor. Surgery performed before the membrane causes significant damage tends to result in better outcomes. If your vision has been affected for a long time, there may be permanent changes to the macula that limit the potential for visual recovery. That’s why regular follow-up appointments are key to determining the right time for treatment.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’ve been diagnosed with an epiretinal membrane or are experiencing vision distortion, the specialists at Elman Retina Group are here to help. Our team uses advanced imaging and clinical expertise to guide each patient toward the most appropriate care. To schedule a consultation, contact us in Balimore, Pikesville, and Glen Burnie, MD at (410) 686-3000 to speak with our team today.
