Epiretinal Membrane/Macular Pucker Specialist

What is a macular pucker?

A macular pucker is also called an epiretinal membrane. The eye’s interior contains a gel like substance called vitreous that has millions of fibers attached to the retina, the area in the back of your eye that receives light to form images.

As you get older, the vitreous starts to shrink, which pulls on the retina. Sometimes this pulling away can cause damage to the retina’s surface. 

When the retina starts to heal, scar tissue forms on the retina, which can cause the retina to pucker. Typically, this won’t have an effect on your vision. However, if scar tissue builds up over the macula, which is in the center of the retina and responsible for providing clear vision, you could experience a macular pucker that distorts your vision.

A macular pucker usually only occurs in one eye, although it can affect your other eye at another time.

How is a macular pucker diagnosed?

To diagnose a macular pucker, your ophthalmologist dilates your pupils and examines your retina. You may also have a test called fluorescein angiography, using dye to illuminate areas of the retina.

Another option is the optical coherence tomography (OCT) that scans your retina with a special camera to measure the thickness of it.

What are the symptoms of a macular pucker?

The main symptom of a macular pucker is a change in your vision. Signs of this change include:

• Blurred vision
• Distorted vision
• Straight lines appearing wavy
• Blind spots
• Grayish color in the center of your vision

If you’re experiencing problems with your vision, schedule an appointment with Retina Consultants Ltd. for a diagnosis and to learn about the best treatment for your condition.

How is a macular pucker treated?

As long as your vision from a macular pucker isn’t interfering with your daily activities like reading or driving, you most likely won’t need treatment. It’s possible that the scar tissue that causes a macular pucker completely separates from the retina, allowing it to heal on its own.

However, if your condition is more severe, your ophthalmologist could treat you with a vitrectomy, which is the removal of the vitreous gel and replacing it with a salt solution. Then the membrane is peeled back to remove scar tissue that’s causing the puckering. This procedure is done under anesthesia.

Visiting your ophthalmologist at Retina Consultants Ltd. can determine the condition of your eye health. The practice has a team of experts ready to help you with your eyesight. Call or book an appointment online today.