Your Complete Guide to Anti-VEGF Injection Treatment at Precision Retina Care
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Version: 1.0 | Created: July 2026 | Last Reviewed: July 2026 | Next Review Date: July 2027
What Are Anti-VEGF Injections?
The Science Simplified
VEGF stands for “vascular endothelial growth factor”—a protein that tells the body to grow new blood vessels.
The problem: In wet AMD, the eye produces too much VEGF, which causes abnormal blood vessels to grow under the macula. These vessels leak fluid and blood, damaging your central vision.
The solution: Anti-VEGF medications block this protein, preventing abnormal vessel growth and stopping the leakage.
The result
- Fluid stops leaking
- Vision stabilizes
- In some patients, vision improves
- The progression of wet AMD is slowed or halted
Your doctor will select the most appropriate anti-VEGF medication based on your specific condition and how your eye responds.
Treatment recommendations are based on your ophthalmologist’s clinical assessment, current evidence, and your individual circumstances.
Timeline: What to Expect
Phase 1: Initial Evaluation Before Treatment Starts
Precision Retina Care provides specialized assessment and treatment clinics for patients with wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, and retinal vein occlusion. Our structured approach includes comprehensive assessment with diagnostic testing to confirm the diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.
First appointment
- Comprehensive eye examination
- Individualized diagnostic testing that may include OCT, retinal photography, OCT angiography, fluorescein angiography, and other imaging when clinically indicated
- Review of your medical history
- Discussion of treatment options
- Answers to your questions and concerns
What we are determining
- Is it definitely wet AMD?
- What is the extent of the disease?
- Is an anti-VEGF injection the right treatment for you?
- Which treatment option is most appropriate for your condition?
- Are there any contraindications?
What you should do
- Write down your questions beforehand
- Bring a list of all current medications
- Ask about costs and insurance coverage
- Discuss concerns about the procedure
- Arrange transportation if needed
Phase 2: Intensive Treatment During Months 1–3
Initial Schedule: Monthly Injections
Most patients receive injections in Month 1, Month 2, and Month 3.
What Happens at Each Injection Appointment
Duration: Up to one hour in total, including preparation and monitoring.
- Registration and paperwork: five to 10 minutes
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early
- Check in and confirm your information
- Pre-injection testing: approximately 20 minutes
- Visual-acuity check
- Intraocular-pressure measurement
- OCT imaging to assess fluid levels
- These tests are painless and quick
- Dilating the eyes for a complete examination: approximately 30 minutes
- Dilating drops are placed in your eyes
- The drops allow a complete retinal examination
- Your doctor evaluates the back of the eye
- The macula and surrounding structures are assessed in detail
- Numbing and preparation: approximately five minutes
- Anaesthetic eye drops are placed in the eye
- Your eye will feel numb and tingly
- The injection area is prepared using sterile techniques
- A protective drape is placed
- The injection: less than 30 seconds
- You will see a bright light from the speculum holding your eye open
- You may feel pressure, but the eye is numb
- The actual injection is very brief
- Some patients report seeing a flash or feeling slight pressure
- Post-injection care: approximately five minutes
- Your ophthalmologist will provide appropriate post-procedure medications or instructions
- Your eye may feel slightly scratchy, which is normal
- You will rest briefly
- You will receive home-care instructions
- Discharge: approximately five minutes
- You will be cleared to go home
- Most patients can resume their usual activities shortly afterward
- Your ophthalmologist may recommend temporary restrictions based on your circumstances
- Mild grittiness in the eye is normal for a few hours
After Your Injection
Important: Everyone experiences the injection process differently. If you experience anything unexpected, contact your doctor’s office. Precision Retina Care provides written instructions and emergency contact information so that you know how to reach the team if you have concerns.
Possible sensations after the injection
- Some grittiness or mild discomfort in the eye
- Floaters or small shadows, which should be reported if they persist or worsen
- Slight redness that may last for hours or days
- Mild sensitivity to light
If something concerns you
- Contact your doctor’s office
- Do not wait to see whether symptoms resolve on their own
- The care team is available to help and answer questions
- Use the emergency contact information provided in your written instructions
Physical Sensations During the Injection
Everyone experiences the injection differently. Although your eye is numbed with anaesthetic drops, you may feel some discomfort during the procedure. Most patients tolerate the injection well.
What you might feel
- Pressure in the eye
- Awareness of the syringe approaching because you will see the light
- Brief discomfort or mild, tolerable pain as the medication enters
- Brief dimming of vision
- Sensitivity to the speculum holding your eye open
What to know
- Numbing drops are used to minimize discomfort
- The procedure is very brief
- Any discomfort is temporary
- Patients generally tolerate the procedure well
Phase 3: Maintenance and Monitoring During Month 4 and Beyond
After the first three injections, your treatment plan will be adjusted based on your response.
Common Maintenance Schedules
Every four weeks
- Used if the eye continues to have fluid
Every six weeks
- Some eyes respond well with less frequent injections
Every eight weeks
- Some medications can be extended to this interval if vision is stable
Every 12 weeks
- Some newer medications and well-controlled eyes may achieve this interval
Individualized approach
- Your schedule is based on your specific response
- Your doctor closely monitors your progress
- The schedule may change as your condition evolves
What to Bring to Appointments
Every visit
- OHIP card
- Photo ID
- List of current medications
- Written questions or concerns
- Amsler-grid results if you are self-monitoring
- Notepad to record instructions
- Consider arranging transportation, particularly for your first treatment
First visit
- Medical history, especially diabetes, blood pressure, and other conditions
- List of current medications and supplements
- Information about previous eye surgery or injury
- Family history of eye disease
Key Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Before starting treatment
- Why is this medication recommended for me?
- What are the side effects?
- How will we know whether treatment is working?
- What is the expected injection schedule?
- What happens if I need to skip an injection?
- Are there activities I should avoid?
During treatment
- How am I responding to the medication?
- Do we need to adjust the schedule?
- What should I monitor between visits?
- When can I expect improvement?
- What are realistic goals for my vision?
Long term
- How long will I need injections?
- Can I ever stop treatment?
- What happens if I stop receiving injections?
- Are there other treatments to consider?
- What is the prognosis for my eye?
Tips for a Smooth Treatment Experience
Before Each Appointment
- Arrange transportation: Consider arranging transportation, particularly for your first treatment or if your pupils will be dilated.
- Eat a light breakfast or lunch.
- Take regular medications as scheduled.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Remove jewellery or accessories that could interfere with the procedure.
- Remove your contact lens from the eye being treated, if applicable.
At the Office
- Arrive 10–15 minutes early.
- Take deep breaths to remain relaxed.
- Ask questions about the procedure.
- Tell the staff if you are anxious.
- Follow all instructions carefully.
- Ask for clarification if you do not understand something.
Managing Anxiety
Many patients are anxious before their first injection. This is completely normal.
Things that help
- Understanding what to expect
- Having someone with you for support
- Deep-breathing exercises
- Asking staff questions before the procedure
- Remembering that numbing drops are used
- Focusing on the goal of preserving your vision
Talk to your doctor if
- Your anxiety is overwhelming
- You need additional time or support
- You want to discuss options that may make the procedure easier
Potential Side Effects and What to Watch For
Although mild scratchiness and discomfort for a few hours after an injection can be normal, contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following.
Rare but Serious: Call Immediately
- Severe eye pain
- Significant decrease in vision
- Persistent floaters that worsen
- Signs of infection, including increasing redness, pus, or warmth
- Bleeding or new spots in your vision that do not improve
Serious Complications: Very Rare
Serious complications from anti-VEGF injections are extremely rare. When they occur, they may include:
- Retinal detachment
- Endophthalmitis, or an eye infection
- Cataract progression
Important: Your doctor will review warning signs with you and provide written instructions explaining how to contact the office or seek urgent help. Keep this information accessible and do not hesitate to reach out with concerns.
Realistic Expectations
What Anti-VEGF Can Do
- Stop vision loss in most patients
- Stabilize vision so that it does not worsen
- Improve vision in some patients, approximately 30–40%
- Prevent further fluid leakage
- Slow disease progression
What Anti-VEGF Cannot Do
- Restore vision that was already lost before treatment began
- Cure wet AMD, which is a chronic condition requiring ongoing treatment
- Prevent dry AMD from developing in the future
- Work immediately; improvement takes weeks to months
Timeline for Results
- After the first injection: You may see minimal change.
- After the second injection: Some improvement may be visible.
- After the third injection: The maximum effect is usually seen.
- Ongoing: Stability is maintained with continued treatment.
Some patients respond faster and others more slowly. The response is individual.
Managing Treatment Long Term
Staying Committed to Treatment
Once anti-VEGF treatment begins, staying consistent is crucial because:
- Disease progression can resume quickly if treatment stops
- Fluid can return within days or weeks
- Vision loss from missed appointments may be permanent
- Regular monitoring helps optimize dosing
Making Treatment Work With Your Schedule
If appointments are difficult
- Talk to your doctor about your challenges
- Ask about early-morning or late-afternoon scheduling
- Ask whether a staff member can help address barriers
- Ask about transportation resources
If you are struggling financially
- Financial-assistance programs may be available for eligible patients, depending on the medication prescribed
- Discuss cost concerns with your doctor
- Ask about available options
- Patient advocates may be able to help
If you are struggling emotionally
- It is normal to feel overwhelmed
- Ask about support groups or counselling
- Talk to your doctor about your concerns
- Connect with other patients
When to Adjust or Change Treatment
Your doctor may recommend treatment changes if:
- You are not responding well: The eye continues to have fluid despite treatment
- You experience side effects: Significant adverse effects develop
- A different medication is needed: Another anti-VEGF medication may work better
- The interval can be adjusted: The eye is responding and injections can be spaced farther apart
- The dosage should be adjusted: A different dose may be more suitable
Never stop or change treatment on your own. Always discuss changes with your doctor.
Clinical Trials at Precision Retina Care
Precision Retina Care is involved in clinical trials in AMD, diabetic macular edema, and retinal vein occlusion.
If you are eligible for a study
- You will be informed about potential research studies and opportunities
- Study information will be discussed with you
- You can ask questions about participation
- Participation is offered only when appropriate and after a separate informed-consent discussion
Important
- Participation is completely voluntary and independent of clinical care
- Choosing not to participate will not affect your treatment or care at Precision Retina Care
- Your clinical care remains the primary focus
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Injection
Does it hurt?
Everyone experiences the injection differently. The eye is numbed with drops, but you may feel some discomfort. Most patients tolerate the injection well, and any discomfort is brief.
Can I see the needle going in?
You will see a bright light and be aware of the syringe approaching, but the procedure is very quick.
Is there any bleeding?
Occasionally, minor bleeding develops under the conjunctiva, the clear membrane covering the white of the eye. This is harmless and resolves on its own.
About the Process
How long does the whole appointment take?
The appointment usually takes up to one hour, including check-in, testing, the injection, and monitoring.
Can someone come with me?
Yes. Having someone with you can provide support, particularly during your first appointment. This is especially recommended if your pupils will be dilated or you would prefer someone to be present.
Do I need to take time off work?
Most people do not. The procedure is quick, and you can usually resume normal activities immediately.
Can I drive home after the injection?
Your ability to drive depends on whether your pupils were dilated and your individual circumstances. Discuss this with your ophthalmologist before your appointment. If your pupils are dilated, vision may be temporarily affected and you should consider arranging transportation.
About Results
When will I see improvement?
This varies. Some patients see improvement within weeks, whereas others require several months. Stabilization of vision is the most common outcome.
What if I do not see improvement?
Talk to your doctor. Your medication, dosage, or treatment frequency may be adjusted. Sometimes a different anti-VEGF medication works better.
How long will I need treatment?
Wet AMD is a chronic condition. Most patients need ongoing treatment indefinitely, although the frequency may decrease over time.
About Safety
Is the medication safe?
Your ophthalmologist will recommend a medication appropriate for your condition and discuss its evidence, benefits, risks, and approval status.
What about my other eye?
Both eyes should be monitored regularly. The other eye has a higher risk of developing wet AMD. Regular check-ups can identify problems early.
Can I have an allergic reaction to the medication?
True allergies are very rare. Report unusual symptoms to your doctor.
Your Role in Success
Successful treatment depends on a partnership between you and your medical team.
What your doctor does
- Carefully monitors your response
- Adjusts treatment as needed
- Provides skilled injections
- Communicates with your referring doctor
What you do
- Keep all appointments
- Self-monitor using the Amsler grid
- Report vision changes promptly
- Take medications as prescribed
- Maintain your overall health
- Ask questions and communicate concerns
- Stay engaged in your care
Living Well With Treatment
Daily Life
- Continue regular activities
- Exercise and stay active to support overall eye health
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Wear UV-protective sunglasses
- Do not smoke
- Monitor your vision daily using the Amsler grid
Maintaining Independence
Many people maintain independence and quality of life while receiving anti-VEGF treatment, including:
- Driving when appropriate
- Reading and participating in hobbies, with adaptations as needed
- Working and socializing
- Travelling
- Staying engaged in life
Emotional Support
It is normal to have mixed feelings about regular injections, including:
- Gratitude that an effective treatment exists
- Frustration about the time commitment
- Anxiety about future vision
- Worry about costs
These feelings are valid. Consider:
- Connecting with other patients with AMD
- Talking to a counsellor or therapist
- Joining a support group
- Discussing concerns with your healthcare team
When to Reach Out to Your Doctor
Contact your doctor before your next scheduled appointment if:
- Your vision changes significantly
- You develop new symptoms
- You notice new floaters or shadows
- You have concerns about treatment
- You are struggling with the appointment schedule
- You have questions about your condition
- You want to discuss alternative treatments
Resources
At Precision Retina Care
- Your care team is available to support you
- Ask for educational materials
- Request referrals to support services
- Discuss concerns openly
Additional Resources
- American Academy of Ophthalmology
- National Eye Institute
- Patient support organizations
- Low-vision rehabilitation services
Summary: Your Treatment Journey
- Evaluation: Comprehensive assessment and treatment planning
- Initial phase: Three monthly injections during Months 1–3
- Monitoring: Regular visits to assess your response
- Maintenance: Ongoing injections on an individualized schedule
- Long term: Continued treatment to preserve vision
The goal is to preserve your vision and maintain your quality of life through consistent, evidence-based treatment.
Final Thoughts
Wet AMD is a serious condition, but modern treatment works. By committing to regular injections and monitoring, many patients:
- Stop their vision loss
- Stabilize their vision
- Sometimes improve their vision
- Maintain independence and quality of life
You are not alone in this journey. Your eye-care team, family, friends, and other patients with AMD are here to support you.
Addendum
Clinical Care Provider
Clinical care is provided by Dr. Varun Chaudhary and the Precision Retina Care team at the Hamilton Regional Eye Institute.
Medical Review and Approval
This patient-education guide has been reviewed and approved by Dr. Varun Chaudhary, MD, FRCSC, an ophthalmology specialist with expertise in retinal disease.
Accessibility
This guide is available in large print, audio format, and alternative formats upon request. Please call the office to request an alternative format.
Educational Use
This guide is intended for patient education and does not replace individualized medical advice from your ophthalmologist. Always follow the recommendations provided by your treating eye specialist.
Precision Retina Care | Retina Consultants of Hamilton