Understanding the condition
An epiretinal membrane is a thin layer of scar tissue that develops on the macula – the part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It can cause blurring, distortion, or make straight lines appear wavy.
Stages of an epiretinal membrane
- Early stage: A thin layer of tissue forms on the surface of the macula but doesn’t cause much change in vision. Usually picked up on an OCT scan and simply monitored.
- Moderate stage: The membrane starts to pull on the retina, causing it to wrinkle slightly. This can make straight lines look wavy and make reading or other close-up work harder.
- Advanced stage: The pulling becomes stronger, leading to more obvious distortion and blurring in the centre of vision. At this stage, epiretinal membrane surgery (ERM surgery) may help improve sight and reduce distortion.
Specialist-led epiretinal membrane treatment
Professor Tom Williamson is a highly-regarded vitreoretinal surgeon with over 40 years’ experience treating complex retinal conditions.
Monitoring and management – when surgery isn’t needed yet
If your ERM is mild and not affecting daily life, we’ll track it closely.
- OCT scans + vision checks every 3–6 months
- Simple at-home checks for any changes
- Advice on protecting retinal health
We move to surgery only if symptoms or scans show progression.
Epiretinal membrane surgery – when vision is impacted
If distortion or blur is making daily tasks difficult, ERM surgery can help.
The procedure is a vitrectomy with membrane peel. The jelly-like vitreous inside the eye is removed so Professor Tom Williamson can gently lift away the thin layer of scar tissue from the macula. This relieves the pulling on the retina, allowing it to return to a smoother shape so images appear sharper and straighter.
It’s performed under local or general anaesthetic, and most patients go home the same day, with vision gradually improving over the following weeks to months.
What is the recovery time for epiretinal membrane surgery?
Most people are home the same day, with only mild discomfort afterwards. While vision recovery takes time, you’ll have a clear plan and regular follow-ups to make sure everything is healing as it should.
Hospital Stay
Outpatient (same day)
Vision Improvement
Gradual over days to weeks, depending on gas or oil used
Driving
Usually safe once vision meets legal standard — often 1–2 weeks (longer if gas bubble present)
Flying
Not permitted until the gas bubble has fully gone (can take weeks)
Screen Use
Next day if comfortable
Light Activity
Next day
Full Recovery
Several weeks to a few months, depending on healing and any additional procedures
“I appreciated his honest assessment, review of possible options and considerations and his judgement”
Keith B.
“One call led to an immediate appointment that same morning”
William L.
“I have had several procedures with Professor Williamson and I know I am in the best hands”
Janet S.
Meet Professor Williamson
Professor Tom Williamson is one of the UK’s foremost retinal surgeons, practising in London. With over 40 years in the field, he has performed more than 20,000 operations and is recognised for both his meticulous technique and consistently successful outcomes. Known for his clear, pragmatic approach, Professor Williamson offers patients highly personalised care with continuity over the long term.
How much does an epiretinal membrane surgery cost?
The cost of a vitrectomy for one eye, for self‑funding patients, is £8,898.
Insurance info
We work with major insurance providers, including Bupa, AXA‑PPP, Vitality, WPA, and Aviva. As Professor Williamson is not a fee‑assured consultant, your insurer may not cover the full amount - we’ll confirm any costs with you before treatment.
“When one has eye problems the feeling of vulnerability can be overwhelming. The Professor and his team provide the essential care needed. I have asked him to kindly not consider retirement for at least another 20 years”
William L.
Always ready when you need us
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