Understanding
Anti-VEGF Injections for Retina Conditions

As with any medical procedure, it is important to be informed about both the benefits and potential risks. Anti-VEGF injections have an excellent safety record when administered by experienced professionals. Here are some key points regarding safety:

• Injection-Related Risks:
  • Risk of infection is very low—fewer than 1 in 2000 injections.
  • Severe bleeding into the eye and retinal detachment are rare, occurring in less than 1 in 1000 injections.
  • Other risks include a slight chance of cataract development, inflammation, or allergy, with rates also estimated at less than 1 in 1000 injections.
• Systemic Concerns:
  • Theoretically, there is a risk of systemic side effects such as stroke or heart attack, particularly with medications like bevacizumab when used in much higher doses for other conditions. However, these risks have not been demonstrated with the small doses used for intravitreal injections.

Overall, serious complications are exceedingly rare. Our retina specialists take every precaution—from a strict sterile environment to careful post-procedure instructions—to ensure your treatment is as safe as possible.

Studies and clinical experience have shown that anti-VEGF injections can be remarkably effective in managing retinal diseases. About one third of patients who receive these injections experience an improvement in their vision, while approximately nine out of ten patients see stabilization of their sight. This means that even if the treatment does not lead to a significant gain in vision, it effectively halts further deterioration.

It is encouraging to know that, for many patients, anti-VEGF injections not only prevent additional damage but also offer real hope for regaining some visual function. Consistent follow-up examinations are vital, and our retina specialists will work with you to adjust your treatment plan based on your progress.

The primary benefit of anti-VEGF injections is their ability to maintain the structural and functional integrity of the retina. By inhibiting the overactivity of VEGF, these treatments reduce leakage from abnormal blood vessels and prevent the development of further neovascularization (the growth of new, problematic vessels). The result is an eye that is better able to process images reliably and accurately, preserving your quality of vision.

This treatment not only safeguards the current state of your vision but also creates an environment in which other supportive therapies, if needed, can work more effectively. Regular imaging tests, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fluorescein angiography, help our retina specialists monitor how well the treatment is holding up, guiding potential adjustments to ensure the best possible outcome.