Treatment for Macular Degeneration

The majority of patients are treated at a hospital in a designated injection room. The eye is examined first to check that an injection is needed. If it is, the procedure may take place on the same day or you may have to return another day. In most cases the injections are administered by trained and qualified ophthalmic nurses.

When the injection is given, the patient reclines on a couch. The eye to be treated is held open with a device called a speculum and anaesthetic drops are used to numb it. The patient looks to one side and the injection is given in the opposite corner of the eye.

The patient does not see the needle and the injection only takes a few seconds.

Is it painful?

While the majority of patients find this a painless procedure, some people say the injections are uncomfortable and occasionally painful. Others experience discomfort for a while afterwards. Very occasionally there are more severe reactions.

Always inform the eye clinic of the pain you feel so they can help make you more comfortable during your future treatments.

If you’ve been told you need injections and are worried, you can speak to one of our treatment buddies. They’ve all had injections themselves and are happy to offer you support and advice before you start your treatment.

Call the Macular Society Advice and Information Service on 0300 3030 111 for more information.