There is no need for a gas bubble or "positioning" after uncomplicated ERM surgery. My surgery last year was done out-of-town. Two hours after leaving the OR I was enjoying a meal at a restaurant. I flew home the following day. I experienced no pain at all.
Dear goldie1313,
When to do the cataract surgery, will depend upon the doctors involved. If the lens is removed first, positioning following epiretinal membrane surgery might be easier for you so as to avoid the gas bubble near the lens. Cataracts are likely to be worsened so the postoperative course may be more difficult for you. Speak with your doctors about the rationale for their approach.
Dr. Feldman
Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California
I'd recommend that you find a very experienced retinal surgeon and follow his/her advice about the order of procedures. Surgeons have different preferences, with major consideration given to their ability to visualize your retina. I don't think that going by other people's experiences would be a good strategy in your case.