What Are Intravitreal Injections, and Are They Painful?

Have You Been Told You Need Intravitreal Injections? 

If you’ve recently been told you need intravitreal injections, it’s natural to feel uncertain or even anxious about what this means for your vision and comfort. These injections are a highly effective treatment for a range of retinal conditions, and at OCL Vision, we’re here to guide you through every step with care, precision and reassurance. 

What Are Intravitreal Injections? 

Intravitreal injections are a type of treatment where medication is delivered directly into the vitreous, the clear, gel-like substance inside your eye. This allows high concentrations of the drug to reach the retina and other structures at the back of the eye where many vision-threatening conditions develop. 

At OCL Vision, intravitreal injections are most commonly used to treat: 

• Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
• Diabetic macular oedema
• Retinal vein occlusion
• Inflammatory eye diseases such as uveitis
• Infectious conditions like endophthalmitis 

These injections typically contain anti-VEGF medication (which reduces the growth of abnormal blood vessels) or steroids (to reduce inflammation). By directly targeting the affected area, they help to preserve vision and, in many cases, improve visual outcomes over time. 

How Often Are Intravitreal Injections Needed? 

The frequency of treatment depends on your condition and how your eye responds. Initially, patients may need an injection every four to six weeks. Over time, this interval may be extended, or the frequency reduced if your condition stabilises. 

Our retinal specialists at OCL Vision closely monitor each patient and adjust the treatment plan accordingly to ensure optimal results with minimal intervention. 

What to Expect During the Procedure 

One of the most common concerns patients have is what the procedure actually involves. Here's what typically happens when you come in for intravitreal injections at OCL Vision: 

1. You’ll receive anaesthetic eye drops – These numb the surface of your eye, so you don’t feel pain during the injection.
2. The eye is cleaned – An antiseptic solution is applied to reduce the risk of infection.
3. A small eyelid holder is used – This keeps your eye gently open and prevents blinking.
4. The injection is given – The needle is inserted through the white part of the eye (the sclera) into the vitreous. The injection itself takes only a few seconds. 

The entire process usually takes less than 20 minutes, and you'll be able to go home shortly afterwards. 

Are Intravitreal Injections Painful? 

While the idea of an injection in the eye may sound daunting, most patients report little to no pain during the procedure. Thanks to the local anaesthetic we use, the injection itself is typically felt as mild pressure or a slight scratch, but not sharp pain. 

Some patients experience: 

• Mild irritation or a gritty feeling after the injection
• Slight redness in the white of the eye
• Floaters or small black spots in vision for a day or two 

These effects are usually temporary and settle within a short period. Serious side effects such as infection or retinal detachment are rare but will be carefully monitored by your OCL Vision consultant. 

Aftercare and Recovery from Intravitreal Injections 

After your injection, you may be advised to avoid touching or rubbing your eye, and to delay swimming or wearing contact lenses for a day or two. Your consultant will provide detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your treatment. 

It’s important to attend any follow-up appointments so we can monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed. If you experience any unusual symptoms such as increasing pain, vision loss or light sensitivity, contact us immediately. 

Benefits of Intravitreal Injections 

Despite initial fears, many patients are surprised at how straightforward and effective intravitreal injections can be. Benefits include: 

• Targeted treatment with minimal effect on the rest of the body
• Fast and measurable results in stabilising or improving vision
• Reduced risk of progression for serious retinal diseases
• Regular monitoring by an experienced retinal team 

At OCL Vision, our consultants specialise in intravitreal injection therapy, using the latest research-backed protocols to ensure your treatment is safe, effective and as comfortable as possible. 

Managing Anxiety Around the Procedure 

It’s completely normal to feel nervous before your first injection. Our team is here to answer all your questions, explain each step, and help you feel at ease. 

We often hear from patients that after their first visit, their anxiety reduces dramatically. Many describe the experience as far easier than expected – and are relieved to find that the benefits far outweigh any initial discomfort.  

Why Choose OCL Vision for Intravitreal Injections? 

Choosing the right clinic for your care makes all the difference. At OCL Vision, our retinal specialists are recognised leaders in their field, offering: 

• Consultant-led care from world-renowned UK-trained ophthalmic surgeons
• A calm, private environment in our state-of-the-art London facilities
• Transparent pricing with flexible finance options
• A tailored, personal approach to every patient 

We believe in empowering you with clear information and exceptional care from consultation to recovery. 

Intravitreal Injections Are Safe, Effective and Manageable 

If you’re facing a retinal condition and have been recommended intravitreal injections, rest assured that the procedure is both routine and remarkably effective. With anaesthetic drops and the expert care of the team at OCL Vision, any discomfort is minimal – and the potential benefits for your vision are significant.