Intravitreal Injection
Ophthalmology · Minimally Invasive
5-10 minutes
Duration
Outpatient
Setting
Most patients resume normal activities the same day, with mild redness or soreness resolving within a day or two. Repeat injections are typically scheduled every 4-8 weeks initially, tapering based on the eye's response to treatment.
Recovery
₹8,000+
Cost
📖About Intravitreal Injection
An intravitreal injection delivers medication directly into the vitreous gel of the eye to treat retinal diseases that cause abnormal blood vessel growth or fluid leakage, such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular oedema. Anti-VEGF drugs are the most commonly injected medications, working to shrink abnormal blood vessels and reduce retinal swelling. Because the medication is delivered directly to the site of disease, it is far more effective than oral or topical treatment for these conditions. Most patients require a series of repeated injections over months to years to maintain the treatment effect.
Duration
5-10 minutes
Setting
Outpatient
Recovery
Most patients resume normal activities the same day, with mild redness or soreness resolving within a day or two. Repeat injections are typically scheduled every 4-8 weeks initially, tapering based on the eye's response to treatment.
Cost Range
₹8,000 – ₹45,000 per injection
Specialty
Ophthalmology
Success Rate
80-85%
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📋Indications — Who Needs This Treatment?
- 1Wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular oedema, retinal vein occlusion with macular oedema, choroidal neovascularisation, certain cases of diabetic retinopathy
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🔬How the Treatment is Performed
- 1The eye is numbed with topical or local anaesthetic drops and cleaned with an antiseptic solution to reduce infection risk. Using a very fine needle, the ophthalmologist injects a small, precise dose of medication through the white part of the eye (sclera) into the vitreous cavity, a process that takes only a few seconds. The eye is checked briefly afterward to confirm normal pressure and appearance.
📝Pre-Treatment Preparation
- 1Consult a Ophthalmology specialist to confirm suitability for Intravitreal Injection
- 2Complete all pre-treatment investigations as directed — blood tests, imaging, ECG, or specialist clearance
- 3Disclose all current medications, supplements, and allergies to your treating physician
- 4Fast (nil by mouth) for 6–8 hours if the treatment involves anaesthesia or sedation
- 5Arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you, especially for procedures requiring sedation
- 6Follow all specific pre-treatment instructions issued by your care team regarding diet or medication changes
Star Health Insurance
FeaturedIndia's #1 Standalone Health Insurer
Comprehensive health cover for individuals & families from ₹299/month. Cashless treatment at 14,000+ hospitals across India.
⚠️Possible Side Effects & Risks
- 1Eye discomfort or a gritty sensation, subconjunctival haemorrhage (redness), transient increased eye pressure, rare but serious risk of infection (endophthalmitis) or retinal detachment, floaters
🩹Recovery & Aftercare
- 1Most patients resume normal activities the same day, with mild redness or soreness resolving within a day or two. Repeat injections are typically scheduled every 4-8 weeks initially, tapering based on the eye's response to treatment.
Treatment Journey — What to Expect
Before Treatment
Pre-treatment workup, consent signing, and preparation as instructed by your care team. Baseline tests and imaging completed.
During Treatment
Intravitreal Injection is administered over 5-10 minutes. Vital signs monitored. Your specialist manages any immediate side effects.
Immediate Post-Treatment
Recovery observation, assessment of initial response, discharge instructions provided. Follow-up appointment scheduled.
Long-term Recovery (Most patients resume normal activities the same day, with mild redness or soreness resolving within a day or two. Repeat injections are typically scheduled every 4-8 weeks initially, tapering based on the eye's response to treatment.)
Return to normal activities as tolerated. Monitoring for treatment response and side effects. Ongoing support from your specialist.
Intravitreal Injection Cost in India (2024–25)
| Component | Govt / Budget | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Specialist Consultation | ₹300 – ₹800 | ₹1,000 – ₹3,000 |
| Procedure / Session Cost | ₹2,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Medications | ₹500 – ₹3,000 | ₹2,000 – ₹15,000 |
| Follow-up & Monitoring | ₹300 – ₹1,000 | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 |
| Rehabilitation / Aftercare | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 |
* Estimates for India 2024–25. CGHS / Ayushman Bharat may cover eligible treatments. Individual costs vary by hospital, city, and complexity.
Treatment Outcomes
Intravitreal Injection has a documented success rate of 80-85% when performed by qualified specialists at accredited facilities. Individual outcomes vary based on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Intravitreal Injection?+
An intravitreal injection delivers medication directly into the vitreous gel of the eye to treat retinal diseases that cause abnormal blood vessel growth or fluid leakage, such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic macular oedema. Anti-VEGF drugs are the most commonly injected medications, working to shrink abnormal blood vessels and reduce retinal swelling. Because the medication is delivered directly to the site of disease, it is far more effective than oral or topical treatment for these conditions. Most patients require a series of repeated injections over months to years to maintain the treatment effect.
Who is a candidate for Intravitreal Injection?+
Intravitreal Injection is recommended for patients diagnosed with specific conditions where other approaches have been insufficient. Your Ophthalmology specialist will assess your suitability based on your diagnosis, health history, and treatment goals.
How long does Intravitreal Injection take?+
The typical duration is 5-10 minutes. This may vary based on the complexity of your case and individual response to treatment.
What is the recovery time after Intravitreal Injection?+
Recovery typically takes Most patients resume normal activities the same day, with mild redness or soreness resolving within a day or two. Repeat injections are typically scheduled every 4-8 weeks initially, tapering based on the eye's response to treatment.. Your care team will provide specific instructions based on your response and overall health.
What are the risks or side effects of Intravitreal Injection?+
Side effects vary by individual and are detailed in the section above. Your specialist will discuss all risks and benefits with you before treatment begins. Serious adverse effects are uncommon but are part of the informed consent process.
What is the success rate of Intravitreal Injection?+
Intravitreal Injection has a documented success rate of 80-85% at accredited facilities. Outcomes depend on disease stage, patient health, and adherence to the treatment plan and aftercare instructions.
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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
This page is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified specialist before deciding on any treatment. In emergencies, call 112.