By
Jonathan Yoken, MD
MACULAR
PUCKER
What is
a macular pucker?
In order for
the macula, the small, central portion of the retina responsible
for seeing fine details, to function normally, it needs to be
flat and smooth against the wall of the eye like wall paper. If
the macula becomes wrinkled, or creased it may swell or bulge
and this is known as a macular pucker.
What causes
a macular pucker?
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Macular
Pucker
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Usually a
pucker develops when scar tissue grows across the surface of the
macula. As the scar tissue warps or contracts, it creates a wrinkle
in the underlying retina. A pucker can also develop as the vitreous,
a clear gel that fills the center portion of the eye, shrinks
or contracts and pulls on the macula, again creating a wrinkle.
Other conditions
associated with macular pucker include:
What are
the symptoms of a macular pucker?
Symptoms can
range from mild to severe, but will only occur in the affected
eye. Occasionally, both eyes can develop a pucker, either simultaneously
or even years apart. Typically, puckers cause blurred or distorted
central vision
How is
a macular pucker treated?
It depends
on the severity. Mild puckers are sometimes observed and can remain
stable or even improve over many months or years. More advanced
or severe puckers generally require surgery to stabilize or improve
the vision. The procedure, called a vitrectomy, involves inserting
tiny instruments into the anesthetized eye to remove the vitreous
gel, allowing access to the macula. Delicate forceps are then
used to peel away the epiretinal membrane, which allows the macula
to return to its normal shape. Your doctor will be able to tell
you how severe your condition is and whether or not surgery is
indicated.
