What Is the Recovery Time of Retinal Injections?

If your eye doctor has recommended retinal injections, you may be wondering how the treatment will affect your day-to-day routine. Recovery time is often short, but understanding the typical healing process can help you plan ahead and recognize what is normal after the procedure.

What Are Retinal Injections?

Retinal injections, also known as intravitreal injections, deliver medication directly into the eye. This targeted approach allows the medication to work where it’s needed most, helping to reduce inflammation, control abnormal blood vessel growth, and preserve vision. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, retinal vein occlusion, and certain types of retinal swelling.

Immediate Recovery After the Injection

The injection itself typically takes only a few minutes, and most patients can go home shortly afterward. Immediately following the procedure, you may notice:

• Mild eye irritation or a scratchy sensation

• Redness on the white part of the eye

• Temporary blurry vision

• Increased tearing or light sensitivity

These symptoms are common and usually improve within a few hours to a day.

The First 24-48 Hours

For most people, the main recovery period is within the first one to two days. During this time:

• Vision often clears as any residual medication bubbles or irritation resolve

• Mild discomfort typically subsides without treatment

• Over-the-counter pain relievers are rarely needed

Your eye doctor may recommend avoiding eye rubbing and limiting strenuous activity for the rest of the day to reduce irritation and lower the risk of infection.

Returning to Normal Activities

Many patients are able to resume normal daily activities, including work, within 24 hours. Light activities such as reading, watching TV, or using a computer are generally safe once your vision feels comfortable. More vigorous exercise or swimming may be postponed for a short time based on your doctor’s guidance.

When to Expect Full Recovery

While minor symptoms resolve quickly, the eye may take several days to fully feel “normal” again. Importantly, visual improvement from the injection depends on the underlying condition being treated. Some patients notice vision changes within days, while others may see gradual improvement over weeks with repeated treatments.

When to Call Your Eye Doctor

Although complications are rare, you should contact your eye doctor right away if you experience:

• Increasing eye pain

• Significant vision loss

• Persistent redness or swelling

• Sensitivity to light that worsens

• Discharge from the eye

Prompt attention helps ensure the best possible outcome.

Schedule Your Retinal Care Consultation

The recovery time for retinal injections is typically short, with most patients returning to their regular routine within a day or two. Mild discomfort and temporary visual changes are normal and usually resolve quickly. These injections play a vital role in protecting and preserving vision, making them an important part of modern retinal care.

If you have questions about retinal injections or want to learn whether this treatment is right for you, schedule a consultation with The Center for Eye Care and Optical today. Visit our office in West Islip, New York, or call (631) 825-7725 to book an appointment.