Protect your eyesight with Dr Allan Fong, Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
Are you noticing distorted or blurry vision, especially when reading or focusing on fine details? You may be experiencing the effects of an epiretinal membrane (ERM)—a condition that causes a delicate layer of scar tissue to form on the retina. Though often subtle at first, ERMs can gradually affect your central vision and make everyday tasks more difficult. At Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, we’re here to help you understand the condition and explore your options for treatment and clarity.
An epiretinal membrane is a thin, translucent layer of fibrous tissue that forms on the inner surface of the retina, typically over the macula—the part of the eye responsible for sharp, central vision. This membrane can contract over time, leading to traction on the retina and a wrinkling effect that distorts vision.
Also known as macular puckers or cellophane maculopathy (due to their shiny, transparent appearance), ERMs can be mild and symptomless, or they can significantly affect visual function if they progress. While some membranes remain stable or even peel off spontaneously, others may worsen and require surgical intervention to restore vision.
Epiretinal membranes are often related to age-related changes in the eye. However, they can also develop due to other eye conditions or events, such as:
Risk factors include:
Many people with ERM may not notice symptoms in the early stages. The condition is often found during a dilated eye exam or on retinal imaging (OCT).
When symptoms do occur, they may include:
These symptoms usually affect only one eye and may become more noticeable when comparing vision between the two eyes.
If the ERM is mild and vision is not significantly affected, we may recommend regular monitoring without immediate treatment.
However, if:
…then surgery may be advised to relieve traction and restore clearer vision.
If the ERM is mild and vision is not significantly affected, we may recommend regular monitoring without immediate treatment. However, if your vision worsens and your daily activities are affected, then we may recommend surgery to relieve traction and restore clearer vision.
The most effective treatment for symptomatic ERM is a surgical procedure called pars plana vitrectomy with membrane peeling. During this procedure:
Tiny incisions are made in the white of the eye (less than 0.5mm each).
The vitreous gel is removed to provide access to the retina.
Using fine forceps, the membrane is carefully peeled from the macula.
This is a form of keyhole microsurgery, done under local anaesthesia and usually completed as a day surgery. The incisions are self-sealing and do not require stitches.
Vision typically improves gradually over weeks to months.
Recovery is generally comfortable, with mild post-operative care.
The degree of improvement depends on how long the ERM has been present and whether permanent damage occurred.
Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.
BBM, PBM, MBBS (S’pore), MMed (Ophth),
FRCS (Edinburgh), MRCOphth (London), FAMS
Medical Director
Senior Consultant Eye Surgeon
Visiting Consultant @ SNEC
Adjunct A/Professor, Duke-NUS
Dr Allan Fong has years of experience treating complex retinal conditions, including epiretinal membranes. Before joining Angel Eye & Cataract Centre, he served as the Head of Cataract & Comprehensive Ophthalmology Department at SNEC for 9 years.
He prides himself on patient care, taking the time to explain each condition to his patients, using retinal imaging to guide their decisions and ensuring that each treatment is tailored to their vision needs.
If you’re experiencing visual distortion or blurriness, don’t ignore it. Epiretinal membrane can be effectively treated—especially with early diagnosis.
Schedule an appointment with Dr Allan Fong today.
For urgent enquiries and appointment requests, please call or WhatsApp us directly.
Royal Square Medical Centre @ Novena
101 Irrawaddy Road #21-07
Singapore 329565
Mon – Fri: 9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat: 9:00AM to 1:00PM
Sun & PH: Closed
Mon – Fri:
9:00AM to 6:00PM
Sat:
9:00AM to 1:00PM
Sun & PH:
Closed
