Recovery after epiretinal membrane ERM surgery is often slower in visual terms than after some other eye procedures, even though discomfort settles relatively quickly. The macula needs time to reshape and function more normally.
First Weeks
Early symptoms reflect surgical healing.
- Blurred or distorted central vision is common initially and may even seem worse before it improves.
- Mild ache, redness, and light sensitivity usually lessen over the first couple of weeks with drops and simple pain relief.
- Activity restrictions and any positioning instructions are followed as for other vitrectomy procedures.
- Reading and fine detail tasks can feel challenging during this phase.
Months After Surgery
Macular recovery and neuroadaptation are gradual.
- Many patients notice steady improvement in clarity and reduction in distortion over 3-6 months, sometimes longer.
- Final vision depends on pre‑existing macular damage and other retinal conditions.
- OCT imaging is used to monitor macular thickness and the success of membrane removal.
- Glasses prescriptions are often updated once vision has stabilised.
