Intraocular injections are one of the most effective tools in modern retinal care. These targeted treatments deliver medication directly to the back of the eye, helping manage conditions that cause swelling, abnormal blood vessel growth, or damage to retinal tissue.
What Are Intraocular Injections and How Can They Help?
Intraocular injections are one of the most effective tools in modern retinal care. These targeted treatments deliver medication directly to the back of the eye, helping manage conditions that cause swelling, abnormal blood vessel growth, or damage to retinal tissue. Unlike eye drops or oral medications, which often don’t reach the retina effectively, injections provide direct, high-dose treatment exactly where it’s needed.
Is the Procedure Uncomfortable?
Understandably, many patients feel anxious about having a needle near the eye. But in reality, the procedure is quick and usually very tolerable. Most people describe it as pressure or a mild stinging from the cleaning solution—not the injection itself. We numb the eye thoroughly and take every step to make the experience as gentle and stress-free as possible.
What Happens During the Treatment?
You’ll be comfortably seated while we clean the surface of your eye and apply numbing drops. In some cases, a small device will be used to gently keep the eyelid open. Once the eye is prepped, your doctor will carefully administer the medication using a tiny needle through the white part of the eye (the sclera). The whole process typically takes just a few minutes.
What Are the Possible Side Effects or Risks?
While complications are rare, it’s important to know what to expect. Most side effects are mild and temporary, such as:
Redness or irritation
A blood spot on the white of the eye
New floaters (especially after steroid injections)
Serious complications like infection, retinal detachment, or bleeding are very rare—but we monitor all patients closely and encourage you to reach out if anything feels unusual.
How Should I Prepare?
Here’s how you can get ready for your appointment:
Don’t wear eye makeup that day.
Use lubricating eye drops if your eyes are dry.
Take any prescribed eye medications as usual.
Let us know if you’ve had a recent eye infection.
Bring someone to drive you if your vision feels blurry after.
And of course, feel free to ask any questions ahead of time—we’re here to help you feel confident and informed.
What Can I Expect After the Injection?
Your eye may feel irritated or watery for a few hours, and you might see some floaters or a red spot on the white of your eye. These symptoms usually improve within a day or two. You can use cold compresses or over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Steroid injections may cause floaters that last a bit longer but usually clear up on their own.
When Should I Call the Office?
Please contact us right away if you experience:
Sudden vision loss
Increased floaters after 24 hours
Severe pain or light sensitivity
Swelling or discharge from the eye
Flashes of light or a curtain-like shadow in your vision
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