Intravitreal injections are a treatment method used to deliver medication directly into the eye’s vitreous, the gel-like substance in the middle of the eye.

Our practice has a special interest in the treatment of medical retinal diseases including age-related macula degeneration, diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion.

These conditions can cause swelling at the macula (area of central vision) which result in blurred central vision or distortion. Our doctors use a macula scan called OCT to confirm the condition and will offer treatment as required.

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What to expect with your procedure

Intravitreal injections involve delivering medication directly into the vitreous gel of the eye.

Although the idea of an injection into the eye can be unsettling, the procedure is typically straightforward, quick, and not painful.

Many patients find that the actual experience is much better than they anticipated.

This therapy can be crucial in preventing severe vision loss from certain diseases, potentially making a significant difference in your quality of life.

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Before the Procedure:

Preparation:  You should continue any medications that you normally take.  You will need a driver to bring you to your appointment as you will not be able to drive home.

Anaesthetic: The eye will be numbed with local anesthetic eye drops and a tiny injection to minimise discomfort.

During the Procedure:

Procedure: You will be seated in a reclining chair and a small speculum may be used to prevent blinking. A tiny needle is used to inject the medication into the vitreous. You might feel a slight pressure or discomfort, but it should not be painful.

After the Procedure:

Recovery: You may experience blurred vision or mild discomfort, which is usually temporary. There may be a small amount of redness which can last several weeks.

Monitoring and Follow-Up:

Appointments:  At each follow-up visit the macula scan will be repeated to assess the response to treatment and the interval for follow up.

Signs of Concern: Contact our clinic urgently if you experience severe pain, vision loss, significant redness.  If this occurs on the weekend you should present to an emergency department.  It is important that you do not wait if you have concerning symptoms as an infection can be devastating and early treatment is important.