CYP19A1 and macular retinal edema: However, more recent research has shown that aromatase inhibitors are both more effective and safer leading to their widespread use in postmenopausal patients today.23 While aromatase inhibitors are beneficial, they are also associated with ocular side effects including dry eye disease and retinal changes such as retinal bleeding, macular edema, uveitis, central artery occlusion, and vitreoretinal traction.12,24 Current findings suggest that these side effects may not be linked to the duration of use or the cumulative dose, as they can manifest early in therapy.25