Intravitreal
eye injections.
Treatment delivered into the gel-filled space inside the eye for selected macular and retinal conditions. These include wet macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema (swelling from diabetes) and retinal vein occlusion (a blocked retinal vein).
A plan for your retinal condition
An intravitreal injection places medicine into the vitreous cavity, the gel-filled space inside the eye. The medicine acts on the condition affecting the retina; it is not injected into the retinal tissue itself. The appropriate approach depends on the diagnosis. Examination and optical coherence tomography (OCT), a light-based retinal scan, help determine whether injections, another treatment or monitoring is appropriate.
We discuss the aim of treatment, alternatives, risks, likely review schedule and costs before proceeding. No single treatment suits every cause of retinal fluid or every stage of macular disease.
Medical retinal conditions & treatment options →What happens at an injection visit?
Vision testing, imaging and examination may be needed to assess activity. The eye is prepared with local anaesthetic and antiseptic. A fine needle delivers treatment through the white of the eye; the team explains what to expect and how to keep the eye still.
Ask about transport and the expected appointment duration when booking. Bring your medication list, allergies and details of any change in health. Tell the team if your eye has become red, painful or sticky before treatment.
Your injection visit, step by step.
The usual pathway. Your team will explain any changes for your circumstances.
- 01
Review your eye
Vision checks, examination and an OCT scan may be needed. Your team confirms the treatment plan and consent.
- 02
Prepare & numb
Local anaesthetic and antiseptic prepare the eye. The eyelids are kept clear of the injection site.
- 03
Give the injection
A fine needle places medicine into the vitreous cavity through the white of the eye. You may feel brief pressure.
- 04
Plan your next visit
Receive aftercare advice and a plan for review or further treatment. The interval depends on your condition.
Follow-up is part of the treatment
Many retinal conditions need repeat treatment and monitoring. The interval depends on the condition and its response. Some eyes can gradually extend between visits; others need shorter intervals to remain controlled.
Vision feeling stable does not always mean the disease is inactive. Keep your planned appointment and call if illness, transport or cost may affect attendance.
Injection risks include infection, inflammation, bleeding, pressure changes and retinal complications. Rare complications can cause permanent loss of vision. Your ophthalmologist will discuss treatment-specific risks.
After your injection ↗Questions about intravitreal injections.
Are injections the only treatment?＋
No. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and can include observation, different injection approaches, laser or surgery. The medical retina guide explains the broader options.
Will I need injections indefinitely?＋
Some conditions need long-term treatment. The plan is reviewed over time, and we cannot promise a fixed number of injections or a particular interval at the outset.
Can I continue treatment after moving or travelling?＋
Contact the team in advance so the treatment history and planned review can be discussed. Do not assume a treatment interval can safely be extended to fit travel.
What will my visits cost?＋
Ask the practice for current consultation, imaging and treatment fees, any relevant rebates and expected out-of-pocket costs. Costs depend on the treatment and setting.
Arrange a retinal assessment
For a new referral, ongoing treatment or a transfer of care, speak with the practice team. They will confirm the appropriate clinic and what records to bring.