What is age-related macular degeneration?
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the name given to a group of eye diseases that damage the retina with age, leading to the progressive loss of central vision. This can affect the ability to read, drive, recognise faces and engage in activities that require detailed vision.
There are two types of AMD: dry and wet. Wet AMD is the most severe form, caused when blood vessels grow from beneath the retina, leaking blood and fluid into the macula.
If you have wet AMD and your condition is beginning to worsen, you may be a suitable candidate for injection treatment.
Injections for wet macular degeneration – What to expect
The most common treatment for wet AMD is anti-VEGF therapy, completed through an injection directly into the eye. VEGF stands for vascular endothelial growth factor and is a protein that promotes the growth of blood vessels. Anti-VEGF therapy aims to halt the growth of the abnormal blood vessels beneath the macula in wet AMD, and thus help to stabilise and improve vision.
Here is what you can expect before, during and after wet AMD injections.
Before the procedure
Before your injection, Dr Pappalardo will explain the procedure to you, and will provide you with general guidelines to help you prepare. Although this is a minimally invasive procedure, your eye may be blurry and a little irritated afterwards, meaning that you will be unable to drive yourself home – please ensure you arrange alternative transportation to and from your appointment.
During the procedure
Wet AMD injections typically take around 15 minutes to administer, and the process usually comprises the following steps.
First, your eye will be numbed using anaesthetic eye drops. Then your eyelids and the surface of your eye will be cleaned and covered over with a small drape to keep the area sterile. During the injection, Dr Pappalardo will ensure that you are comfortable. It is common to experience some pressure, however overall the procedure is not generally painful. Your eye will then be cleaned again, and some lubricating drops will be administered.
You will be provided with lubricating drops to use as required for the next 12-24 hours while the eye feels a little gritty or irritated.
After the procedure
Immediately after treatment, you may find that your eye feels gritty or irritated and that your vision is a little blurrier than usual. This should improve within 24 hours. Usually, patients will require ongoing injections, initially spaced monthly, to best stabilise vision.
Dr Pappalardo will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, including when your next injection or follow-up visit should occur.
Macular degeneration injections risks
As with any procedure, eye injections do not come without risks. While complications are infrequent, Dr Pappalardo will discuss these with you prior to your injection. You will have Dr Pappalardo’s contact details after your injection so that you are able to contact her at any time if concerns arise that require advice or further management.
Get in touch to see Dr Juanita Pappalardo
Dr Pappalardo is a Specialist Ophthalmologist with broad experience treating a range of common eye diseases, including macular degeneration. If you believe that you have age-related macular degeneration, get in touch to plan your visit with Dr Pappalardo.
Personalised care, exceptional results with Dr Juanita Pappalardo.
