When a thin membrane that resembles crinkled cellophane grows on the surface of the center of the retina (the macula), it creates a condition known as macular pucker. This abnormality can contract, or pull on the retina, resulting in distorted or blurred vision.

How is Macular Pucker Treated?

In many cases of macular pucker, the symptoms are not serious enough to warrant treatment. Surgery may be required, however, in cases where vision is impaired or severely distorted. Vitrectomy, an outpatient surgical procedure to remove the vitreous that fills the center of the eye and pulls on the retina, is commonly used. It allows the retina surgeon to remove any scar tissue that is causing the macula to wrinkle. While vision slowly improves, it is usually not fully restored following this procedure.