OCT helps show whether the membrane is affecting the macula
UKE describes fundus examination and optical coherence tomography as core diagnostic tools. OCT can document traction, retinal thickening and the relationship between the membrane and central retinal structure, which is more useful for planning than a diagnosis label alone.
Observation can be appropriate when symptoms are limited
Many patients do not require an operation simply because an epiretinal membrane is visible. The decision should be driven by functional symptoms, visual acuity, distortion, progression and OCT findings rather than by imaging alone.
Surgery generally means vitrectomy with membrane peeling
UKE describes surgical removal of the vitreous followed by careful peeling of the membrane from the retinal surface. The procedure is intended to relieve traction and improve or stabilize visual function, but the expected degree and speed of recovery vary between eyes.
Ask about cataract, retinal risks and postoperative follow-up
Vitreoretinal surgery can affect lens clarity in phakic eyes and has retinal and pressure-related risks that must be discussed individually. International patients should clarify the early review schedule, warning symptoms and whether any gas has been used before making return-travel plans.
Prepare the right records for a specialist review
Send recent original eye imaging and a clear description of how vision is affected.
- Macular OCT images and report
- Current visual acuity and refraction
- Description of metamorphopsia or central distortion
- Fundus photographs if available
- Previous retinal, cataract or vitreous surgery
- Lens status
- Other macular disease such as AMD or diabetic macular disease
- Current eye drops and relevant systemic medication
Official sources
Sources last checked 2026-09-12. Ophthalmic treatment can be time-sensitive, so confirm current recommendations directly with the treating eye team.
- Membrane on the macula – diagnosis and treatment — University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) ↗
- Retinal diseases – epiretinal membrane and vitreoretinal treatment — University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) ↗
- Retinology – retinal diagnostics and specialist service — University Medical Center Freiburg ↗