Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections treat conditions such as Wet AMD, diabetic macular oedema and retinal vein occlusion by reducing fluid, swelling and abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina. Learn how the treatment works and what to expect.
Anti-VEGF intravitreal injections are a highly effective treatment used to manage several retinal and macular conditions caused by leaking or abnormal blood vessels.
VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) is a natural protein involved in forming new blood vessels. In eye disease, VEGF becomes overactive, causing:
Fluid leakage
Swelling of the macula
Growth of fragile, harmful blood vessels
Anti-VEGF medicines — such as Eylea®, Lucentis®, Avastin® or Vabysmo® — block this process, stabilising the retina and improving or preserving vision.
The medication is delivered as a tiny injection into the vitreous cavity of the eye under sterile conditions.
For many patients, Anti-VEGF therapy is the gold standard and can prevent severe visual loss.
Assessment:
Your ophthalmologist examines the retina and performs an OCT scan to measure swelling or fluid.
Anaesthetic:
Numbing drops are applied — patients typically feel only light pressure, not pain.
Cleaning:
The eye is gently disinfected to prevent infection.
Injection:
A small amount of Anti-VEGF medicine is injected into the vitreous through the white of the eye using a very fine needle.
Monitoring:
Vision and retina thickness are assessed at follow-up appointments to determine the treatment interval.
Most patients receive an initial “loading phase” of monthly injections followed by regular maintenance based on their response.
Reduces retinal swelling
Stops leakage from abnormal vessels
Prevents further vision loss
May improve central vision
Stabilises Wet AMD and slows disease progression
Treats diabetic macular oedema and vein occlusions
Quick procedure with minimal discomfort
Outpatient treatment — no hospital stay needed
For many conditions, Anti-VEGF is the most effective and safest long-term therapy.
Anti-VEGF injections may be recommended if you have:
Wet Macula Degeneration (Wet AMD)
Diabetic Macular Oedema (DMO)
Retinal Vein Occlusion (RVO) with macular swelling
Myopic CNV (bleeding in high myopia)
Other retinal conditions involving fluid or neovascularisation
Your consultant will review OCT imaging, visual symptoms and long-term risk to determine your treatment schedule.
The entire visit typically takes 10–20 minutes
You may feel mild pressure but no sharp pain
Vision may appear slightly hazy immediately after the injection
A small “floater bubble” is common and resolves within 24 hours
You can go home straight away
Driving is usually safe the following day
Most patients require multiple injections over months to maintain stability.
Early Anti-VEGF therapy is crucial if:
You have new distortion or central blurring
OCT shows macular swelling or leakage
Wet AMD is suspected
You notice rapid visual loss
You have diabetes and OCT scans show oedema
Prompt treatment prevents irreversible retinal damage and gives the best chance of visual improvement.
Mild irritation or watering is normal for 24 hours
Avoid rubbing the eye
Use any prescribed drops as directed
Contact your clinician urgently if you experience:
Severe pain
Marked redness
Sudden drop in vision
Increasing floaters
Most patients tolerate injections extremely well and return to normal activity the same day.
