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What is an Epiretinal Membrane?

An epiretinal membrane (ERM), also known as a cellophane membrane or macular pucker, is a thin layer of scar-like tissue that forms on the surface of the retina when the vitreous gel, a gel-like substance that fills the inside of the eye, migrates onto the surface of the retina. This membrane can shrink or contract, causing the retina to wrinkle and potentially leading to blurred or distorted vision.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Early diagnosis helps monitor vision changes and determine whether treatment is needed. Mild or stable cases may only require regular eye examinations and OCT scans. If the membrane significantly affects vision or daily activities, surgery may improve or stabilise sight.

What are the common symptoms of an Epiretinal Membrane?

  • Distorted vision
  • Wavy lines in the center of vision
  • Double vision
  • Blurry vision
  • Color distortion
  • Decreased central vision

Causes and Risk Factors of Epiretinal Membrane

Causes

  • Age-related changes: The natural changes in the eye with aging can cause a membrane to form.
  • Changes in the vitreous: As the gel inside the eye changes with age, it can press upon the retina and may trigger scar-like tissue formation.
  • Eye inflammation: Inflammation within the eye can result in the development of this membrane.
  • Retinal problems: A retinal tear, detachment, or other retinal disease can sometimes cause an epiretinal membrane.

Risk Factors

  • Older age
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Previous eye surgery
  • Previous eye injury or trauma

Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Epiretinal Membrane in Turkey

Advances in epiretinal membrane (ERM) care include high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT), intraoperative OCT, and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted retinal imaging. OCT helps doctors assess retinal distortion and macular thickness, while intraoperative OCT can provide real-time views of retinal layers during surgery. Researchers are also investigating AI-based models to improve ERM detection and predict visual outcomes after surgery, but these tools are not yet established replacements for clinical assessment. The availability of these technologies varies between hospitals in Turkey.

Treatment options for Epiretinal Membrane

Vitrectomy : it is a minimally invasive eye surgery used when an epiretinal membrane significantly affects vision. During the procedure, the surgeon makes tiny openings in the eye to remove the vitreous gel, then carefully peels the membrane away from the retina's surface. This can help reduce blurred or distorted vision and may improve or stabilise eyesight.

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  • Clinical assessment:
    • Visual acuity test: Checks how clearly the patient can see from various distances.
    • Amsler grid test: Helps detect distortion, such as straight lines appearing wavy.
    • Slit-lamp examination: Allows the detailed examination of the front and back of the eye.
    • Dilated eye examination: The doctor dilates the pupil with eye drops to examine the retina and macula.
    • Assessment of symptoms: The doctor takes a detailed history of symptoms such as blurred vision, distorted vision, difficulty reading, or changes in vision.
  • Imaging Tests:
    • Optical coherence tomography: This imaging test provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing your eye care professional to assess the thickness and characteristics of the epiretinal membrane
    • Fluorescein angiography: Your doctor may perform this test if they suspect an additional retinal issue or want to assess leakage from the retinal blood vessels.
  • In some cases, the doctor may recommend supportive medications, such as corticosteroids, to reduce inflammation and swelling associated with the epiretinal membrane. If symptoms are mild, doctors may recommend regular monitoring instead of medication.

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Hospitals for Epiretinal Membrane in Turkey

Can Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Can Hospital

Izmir, Turkey

One of Turkey's leading hospitals, Can Hospital in Izmir, was established in 2017 and has a 95-bed capacity. It has been accredited by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the International Health Tourism Authorization Certificate, the Turkish Republic Ministry Of Health Accreditation, the Turkish Republic Service Exporters' Association, the Association Of Turkish Travel Agencies, and the Turkish Republic Ministry Of Health Portal.

The hospital offers excellent, cutting-edge facilities for the patients' comfortable stay. They offer various medical services, including eye surgery, dentistry, hair transplantation, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, and surgeries for metabolic and obesity disorders. The hospital upholds the highest standards for hygiene, has exceptional patient care, and employs specialist technology.

The hospital's doctors, nurses, and medical technicians are highly skilled and available around the clock for the patients. The hospital's physicians and surgeons are dedicated to offering the most outstanding medical care at reasonable costs. The hospital offers language services such as Turkish, English, German, French, and Spanish.

To offer a top-notch patient experience throughout their stay in the hospital, it has 350 workers working diligently. The hospital has specialized divisions such as Dentistry, Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, Hair Clinic, Ophthalmology, Orthopedics, ENT treatment, and Obesity or Bariatric Surgery.

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Why Choose Turkey for Epiretinal Membrane Treatment?

  • Specialized eye specialists: Access to experienced vitreoretinal surgeons.
  • Advanced technology: Access to current techniques like OCT and advanced vitrectomy procedures.
  • Complete eye care: Many hospitals can provide diagnosis, surgery, and follow-up care in one place.
  • International patient support: Many hospitals assist with appointments, travel, accommodation, and communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recovery from an epiretinal membrane depends on whether surgery is required. After a vitrectomy with membrane peeling, vision typically improves gradually over several weeks to months, with potential for further improvement continuing for 6 to 12 months. Exact recovery time varies based on the retina's condition and the membrane's severity.

Yes, you can walk with an epiretinal membrane; it affects the retina. if your vision is significantly blurred or distorted, be careful on stairs, uneven surfaces, or while walking outdoors. If you have recently undergone vitrectomy surgery, follow your eye surgeon’s instructions about activity and recovery.

Yes, many specialized eye hospitals in Turkey utilize advanced technology for the diagnosis and treatment of epiretinal membrane (ERM). This includes high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging, small-gauge vitrectomy systems, advanced surgical microscopes, and specialised tools for membrane peeling.

Before choosing a recognised eye institute, research the doctor's experience, patient testimonials, hospital facilities, and access to advanced treatments to find the best doctor and hospital in Turkey for vitreoretinal procedures. You can also get support from a MediGence medical tourism facilitator to help you choose the best doctor and facility.

The outcome of epiretinal membrane surgery depends on the severity of retinal distortion, the health of the macula, the presence of other eye conditions, and the patient’s preoperative vision. Many patients experience improved or stabilised vision after surgery, although some distortion may remain. Your vitreoretinal surgeon can discuss the likely benefits and risks based on your OCT findings and eye examination.

Turkey has many skilled vitreoretinal specialists who can diagnose and treat issues like epiretinal membranes. The Vitreoretinal Society of Turkey has shared information about how these specialists manage surgical retinal conditions, including ERM. When choosing a doctor, consider their experience with epiretinal issues, the number and types of endothelial procedures they perform, and the quality of the hospital’s diagnostic and postoperative facilities.

Epiretinal membrane surgery is typically considered safe; however, it carries risks similar to any surgical intervention. Potential complications include infection, bleeding, retinal detachment, elevated eye pressure, new or worsening cataracts, and retinal swelling. Your eye doctor will review these risks with you before surgery, taking into account your specific eye condition.

Seek urgent eye care if you experience sudden vision loss, new flashes or floaters, or a dark curtain or shadow in your vision. These symptoms may indicate a retinal tear, retinal detachment, or another urgent eye condition rather than ERM progression. Avoid driving if your vision is affected, and do not rub or press the eye if it has been injured.

An epiretinal membrane does not usually cause physical deformities. However, if it becomes severe or remains untreated, it can sometimes cause long-term blurred or distorted vision. Treatment can help manage these vision changes, although some patients may have lasting visual effects even after surgery.

Yes, an epiretinal membrane can affect quality of life if it leads to blurred or distorted vision. You may find it harder to do things like reading, driving, using a computer or phone, and recognizing faces. How this affects each person is different, and with proper monitoring or treatment, these vision problems can be managed.

In some people, an untreated epiretinal membrane may cause persistent blurred or distorted vision. In more serious cases, it may interfere with daily activities like reading or driving. You can condition with regular eye exams and OCT scans and decide if treatment is needed.

You can reduce your risk of related eye problems by managing conditions such as diabetes, protecting your eyes from injury, and getting regular eye exams. If you have a history of retinal problems or eye surgery, regular follow-ups with an eye specialist can help detect changes early.

Epiretinal membrane is more common in older adults due to changes in the eye that occur with aging, which can increase the risk of epiretinal membrane. The risk may be higher in people with diabetes, a history of eye surgery or injury, retinal problems, or inflammation inside the eye. However, ERM can also develop in people without these risk factors.

Author

Alvina Hasan
Alvina Hasan

M.Pharm

2 Year of Experience

Alvina Hasan is a dedicated medical researcher and scientific writer with a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences. She holds a B.Pharm from Jamia Hamdard University and an M.Pharm in Quality Assurance from DIPSAR University.

With deep medical expertise and a strong interest in healthcare communication, she focuses on transforming complex clinical and scientific information into clear, engaging, and easy-to-understand narratives. She develops insightful healthcare articles and research-driven content designed to support both medical professionals and patients, helping bridge the gap between advanced medical knowledge and practical understanding.

Readers can explore her published research and articles here:

https://carcinogenesis.com/index.php/JOC/article/view/868

https://carcinogenesis.com/index.php/JOC/article/view/870

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Reviewer

Dr. Vidit Tripathi
Dr. Vidit Tripathi

ENT Surgeon

24 Years of Experience

One of the finest ENT Surgeon in New Delhi, India, Dr. Vidit Tripathi, has worked with several world class multidisciplinary hospitals over the years. Dr. Vidit Tripathi has over 24+ years of experience in his field. The specialist treats and manages a wide range of conditions such as Goiter, Radiation Necrosis in Neck, Neck Injury, Perforates Eardrum View More

Last Reviewed - January 2026