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Retina·Balboa Island, Orange County

Epiretinal Membrane Treatment in Balboa Island, California

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

An epiretinal membrane (ERM), or macular pucker, is a thin layer of scar tissue that forms over the macula. It can cause distorted vision.

Epiretinal Membrane requires expert evaluation because the retina cannot regenerate lost cells. Balboa Island patients benefit from our comprehensive retinal imaging to detect and monitor changes at the earliest possible stage.

Dr. Bonakdar on Epiretinal Membrane

Direct Answers from Dr. Bonakdar

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar at EyeCare Center of Orange County provides expert epiretinal membrane diagnosis and treatment for patients in Balboa Island 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?

An epiretinal membrane (ERM), or macular pucker, is a thin layer of scar tissue that forms over the macula. It can cause distorted vision.

How is Epiretinal Membrane treated?

Treatment options include Monitoring (if mild), Vitrectomy surgery (peeling). The best approach depends on your specific diagnosis, severity, and lifestyle needs.

What are the symptoms of Epiretinal Membrane?

Common symptoms include Distorted vision (straight lines look wavy), Blurred central vision. If you experience any of these, a comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause.

What are the symptoms of Epiretinal Membrane?

Balboa Island residents experiencing any combination of the following symptoms should schedule a comprehensive evaluation:

  • Distorted vision (straight lines look wavy)
  • Blurred central vision

How is Epiretinal Membrane treated?

Treatment for Balboa Island patients is tailored to the specific type and severity of their condition. Options available at our practice include:

Monitoring (if mild)
Vitrectomy surgery (peeling)

Epiretinal Membrane FAQs for Balboa Island Patients

Common questions from Balboa Island patients about our eye care services

At EyeCare Center of Orange County, we diagnose epiretinal membrane using advanced diagnostic equipment including corneal topography, OCT imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations. Balboa Island patients receive the same comprehensive diagnostic technology used at major academic eye centers, right here in Orange County.
We offer comprehensive treatment options for epiretinal membrane including specialty contact lenses, medical therapy, and advanced procedures. Dr. Bonakdar personalizes each Balboa Island patient's treatment plan based on condition severity, lifestyle demands, and long-term visual goals.
Call (714) 558-1182 or book online. Initial consultations take 60-90 minutes and include comprehensive testing. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible from Balboa Island, with appointment times designed to fit your schedule.
Yes, we accept most major vision and medical insurance plans including VSP, EyeMed, Medicare, and Medi-Cal for epiretinal membrane diagnosis and treatment. We verify your coverage and discuss costs before any procedures.

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

Epiretinal Membrane Care for Balboa Island Residents

Epiretinal Membrane demands prompt, expert evaluation—the retina cannot regenerate, so early intervention is critical. Our centrally located Orange County practice is easily accessible for Balboa Island residents, with flexible scheduling to accommodate your needs. Dr. Bonakdar uses widefield retinal imaging and OCT scanning to detect and monitor retinal pathology with high sensitivity. For Balboa Island patients with epiretinal membrane, we provide thorough diagnostic workups and coordinate with retinal surgeons when intervention is needed, ensuring seamless continuity of care.

About Balboa Island

Charming island community with village atmosphere and famous frozen bananas

Population: 3,000+

Affluent residentsBeach loversTouristsBoaters

Languages Spoken in Balboa Island

Our practice serves the diverse Balboa Island community. We provide care to patients who speak:

EnglishSpanish

Eye Health Priorities for Balboa Island

  • Comprehensive eye examinations
  • Contact lens fittings
  • Glasses and eyewear
  • Eye disease treatment
  • Emergency eye care

Conveniently Located Near Balboa Island Landmarks

Our Orange County practice is easily accessible for Balboa Island patients living near:

Balboa Island Ferry
Marine Avenue
Dad's Donuts
Balboa Fun Zone
Balboa Island Boardwalk

Getting to Our Office from Balboa Island

Drive Time
20 min
Primary Route
5 Freeway
Distance
9.8 mi

Balboa Island patients typically reach our Santa Ana office via the 5 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

Balboa Island Neighborhoods We Serve

  • Little Island
  • Big Island
  • Collins Island

Zip codes: 92662

Why Balboa Island Patients Choose EyeCare Center for Epiretinal Membrane

Retinal Imaging Technology

Widefield retinal photography and OCT scanning detect epiretinal membrane 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 Balboa Island patients need retinal intervention, we coordinate seamlessly with fellowship-trained retinal surgeons.

Ongoing Monitoring

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

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar - Board Certified Ophthalmologist

Your Epiretinal Membrane Specialist in Balboa Island

Dr. Alexander Bonakdar is a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 35 years of experience treating epiretinal membrane 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 Balboa Island

See why your neighbors in Balboa Island 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 Consultation

Expert diagnosis and treatment for Balboa Island and Orange County residents.