Intravitreal Injections

The concept of receiving an injection of medication into the back of the eye is an understandably terrifying one. Surprisingly, these injections rarely cause any discomfort or pain and patients find the experience is vastly better than they had anticipated. Most patients walk away from their procedure with a smile.

Does it hurt?

The short answer is: Almost never. On the few occasions it does, it is transient and mild. This is due to anaesthetic drops alongside an gentle injection of further anaesthetic which is also not painful. This ensures patients are completely comfortable throughout their procedure and walk away with a smile.

Where does the injection procedure take place?

Intraocular injections take place in our specialised injection suite under strictly sterile conditions. Patients are afforded the comfort they deserve by having a bed to lie down and fully relax. 

What should I do after the procedure?

Patients are recommended to rest and take it easy for the rest of the day. The procedure invariably causes some upset to the surface of the eye due to the gentle cleaning solution that is applied to the eye to ensure sterility. Lubricant eye drops are encouraged and provided. Should severe pain occur, a small vial of anaesthetic drops can be applied which is generally more than required for the pain. If the eye is weepy, feel free to use a fresh tissue and dab over the closed eye. 

What shouldn’t I do after the procedure?

• Do not drive - you will need a support person to drive you to and from the clinic.

• Do not wet the eye until the next morning - this helps prevent infection.

• Do not rub or touch the eye. Anaesthetic can last many hours and a scratch may ensue.

When should I seek help?

The most severe complication of therapy is an infection of the eye. This is characterised by severe and increasing pain combined with severe and increasing vision loss and occurs more than 24 hours after an injection. Anything prior to this is usually related to surface disruption due to the cleaning solution. If you believe this is occurring, immediately contact Brisbane North Eye Centre to be put directly in touch with Dr English. Hours count and early treatment can completely restore vision so do not "sleep on it".

If you are unable to get in touch, you are advised to immediately go to the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital for emergency care and specifically state that you have received an injection and are concerned for an infection.