Aftercare Instructions after an Intravitreal Injection

Common and harmless effects include a red patch on the white of the eye, a gritty or burning feeling for 1 to 2 days, and small bubbles or floaters that settle within a few days. Eye pressure may rise temporarily. Serious complications, such as infection or retinal detachment, are rare but need immediate treatment.

Contact us immediately if, over the following days, you develop pain that is getting worse, redness that worsens instead of fading, reduced vision, severe sensitivity to light, discharge or a shadow in your field of vision. These may be signs of infection or another complication, which are treated more effectively the earlier they are diagnosed.

Driving is not recommended on the day of the injection. Your vision may be blurred because of the dilating drops, the anaesthetic or bubbles in the eye, and there is often some discomfort. It is best to come with someone or take a taxi. You can usually drive again from the next day, provided your vision is clear.

For the first 2 to 3 days, avoid rubbing your eye, wearing eye make-up, swimming in a pool or the sea, and dusty places. Do not let water get directly into the eye, and use only the drops your doctor has given you. You can return to most everyday activities from the next day.