Skip to main content
Retina·Newport Beach, Orange County

Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker) Treatment in Newport Beach, California

Medically reviewed by Dr. Alexander Bonakdar, O.D. · Updated February 2026

A thin, scar-like tissue that forms over the surface of the macula. As this membrane contracts, it can cause the retina to wrinkle or 'pucker,' leading to distorted and blurred central vision.

UV exposure in Newport Beach's sunny coastal environment is a recognized risk factor for retinal conditions. Cumulative sun damage over years of beach living can contribute to epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) progression.

Dr. Bonakdar on Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker)

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) diagnosis and treatment for patients in Newport Beach and throughout Orange County. With over 35 years of clinical experience and advanced diagnostic technology, each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their specific condition severity and lifestyle needs.

What is Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker)?

A thin, scar-like tissue that forms over the surface of the macula. As this membrane contracts, it can cause the retina to wrinkle or 'pucker,' leading to distorted and blurred central vision.

How is Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker) treated?

Treatment options include Observation if symptoms are mild., Vitrectomy surgery with membrane peel to remove the scar tissue and flatten the macula., Surgery is recommended when vision distortion significantly impacts daily activities.. The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker)?

Common symptoms include Blurred or distorted central vision (metamorphopsia), Straight lines appearing wavy, Difficulty seeing fine detail, A gray or cloudy area in the central vision. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker)?

Newport Beach residents may notice symptoms more acutely during outdoor activities—ocean glare, wind, and sand can amplify visual disturbances and discomfort:

  • Blurred or distorted central vision (metamorphopsia)
  • Straight lines appearing wavy
  • Difficulty seeing fine detail
  • A gray or cloudy area in the central vision

How is Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker) treated?

For Newport Beach's coastal residents, we consider your active outdoor lifestyle when recommending treatments—ensuring solutions work for beach activities, water sports, and sun exposure:

Observation if symptoms are mild.
Vitrectomy surgery with membrane peel to remove the scar tissue and flatten the macula.
Surgery is recommended when vision distortion significantly impacts daily activities.

Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker) FAQs for Newport Beach Patients

Common questions from Newport Beach patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. For Newport Beach's coastal residents, we also assess environmental factors like UV exposure and salt air irritation that may influence symptoms and diagnosis.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. We consider Newport Beach's active beach lifestyle when selecting treatments—ensuring your correction works for water sports, outdoor activities, and sun exposure.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. We know Newport Beach residents value flexibility—we offer early morning appointments so you can still enjoy your coastal afternoons.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

Have more questions? Call us at (714) 558-1182

Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker) Care for Newport Beach Residents

Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker) demands prompt, expert evaluation—the retina cannot regenerate, so early intervention is critical. Living in Newport Beach's coastal environment adds unique considerations—UV exposure, wind, and salt air can influence both symptoms and treatment choices. Dr. Bonakdar uses widefield retinal imaging and OCT scanning to detect and monitor retinal pathology with high sensitivity. For Newport Beach patients with epiretinal membrane (macular pucker), we provide thorough diagnostic workups and coordinate with retinal surgeons when intervention is needed, ensuring seamless continuity of care.

About Newport Beach

Affluent coastal community with active lifestyle residents

Population: 85,000+

High net worth individualsRetireesBeach lifestyleYacht owners

Languages Spoken in Newport Beach

Our practice serves the diverse Newport Beach community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanishMandarin

Eye Health Priorities for Newport Beach

  • UV damage and photokeratitis from ocean glare
  • Pterygium (surfer's eye) from wind and sun exposure
  • Dry eye from salt air and coastal winds
  • Sports vision needs for water activities

Conveniently Located Near Newport Beach Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Newport Beach patients living near:

Fashion Island
Balboa Pier
Newport Harbor
Hoag Hospital Newport Beach

Getting to Our Office from Newport Beach

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
55 Freeway
Distance
9.5 mi

Newport Beach patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 55 Freeway in approximately 20 minutes. Free on-site parking is available in our building.

801 N Tustin Ave, Ste 404, Santa Ana, CA 92705 — Get Directions

Newport Beach Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Balboa Island
  • Corona del Mar
  • Newport Coast
  • Lido Isle
  • Harbor View
  • Bayshores

Zip codes: 92657, 92658, 92660, 92661, 92662, 92663

Why Newport Beach Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker)

Retinal Imaging Technology

Widefield retinal photography and OCT scanning detect epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) changes that may not be visible during standard examination.

Early Detection Focus

Retinal conditions are often treatable when caught early—our comprehensive exams screen for pathology before symptoms appear.

Retinal Specialist Network

When Newport Beach patients need retinal intervention, we coordinate seamlessly with fellowship-trained retinal surgeons.

Ongoing Monitoring

Structured follow-up schedules ensure epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) progression is tracked and treatment adjusted as needed.

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker) Specialist in Newport Beach

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating epiretinal membrane (macular pucker) and complex eye conditions. Trained at the #1-ranked Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he has helped over 10,000 patients achieve and maintain clear vision.

35+ Years10,000+ PatientsBascom Palmer
Learn more about Dr. Bonakdar →

Patient Stories from Newport Beach

See why your neighbors in Newport Beach trust us with their vision.

Comprehensive Exam

"Not a fan of getting my eyes checked but the receptionist and Dr. were very nice and eased my anxiety."

emily garcia
Santa Ana, CA

Comprehensive Exam

"I came back for my yearly visit and had a great experience as always."

Eduardo arias
Santa Ana, CA

Schedule Your Epiretinal Membrane (Macular Pucker) Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Newport Beach and Orange County residents.