Today, we are fortunate to have effective medications for many common retinal diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. Although it sounds horrible initially, the experience of an intravitreal injection – injecting medication directly into the eye –is tolerated very, very well. The eye is numbed with anesthetic, a drop of betadine is instilled to kill bacteria on the surface and protect your eye, and a tiny needle is used to administer the medication.

There is no down-time after these injections. Patients may return to work, school and regular activity immediately after the procedure (though swimming is restricted for 24 hours). Some patients may report a sandy feeling in the eye for 1-2 days, and some sensitivity to light, but this is limited and commonly due to the betadine.