A 36-year-old member asked:
I have an epiretinal membrane in my right eye. will it get worse if i don't have surgery?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. Richard Scartozzianswered
Ophthalmology - Retinal Surgery 21 years experience
See a retina special: It may or may not get worse, causing central distortion of vision. This can be monitored by a retina specialist and at home with an amsler grid. More severe cases require a vitrectomy surgery with epiretinal membrane peel.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago

Dr. Bernard Godleyanswered
Retinal Surgery 34 years experience
Vitrectomy: If the symptoms are severe enough, a retinal surgeon can perform a vitrectomy operation which involves delicately peeling the wrinkled membrane from the surface of the retina. Over time, this allows the retina to flatten out and assume a more normal shape. Cataract if a common complication of this operation. Without surgery, the conditions either remains stable or worsens.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.9k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 45-year-old member asked:
I've got an epiretinal membrane in my right eye. Will it get worse if i don't get eye surgery?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. Neil Notarobertoanswered
Ophthalmology 31 years experience
Epiretinal membranes: Have a variable course. The progression is unique for the individual. Some of the reasons surgical intervention is considered is when metamorphopsia (distorted vision) occurs or best corrected vision decreases below 20/40. These are guidelines are of course modified based on the individual and their anatomic and visual circumstances.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Sep 18, 2017
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