Medically reviewed by Dr. Niranjana Bejan Singh. Written to established clinical-education standards (AAO/Mayo/NHS/NEI) and adapted for this hospital. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.
An intravitreal steroid implant is a tiny device injected directly into the vitreous — the gel-filled space inside the eye — that releases a steroid medication slowly over weeks to months. It is used mainly for uveitis affecting the back of the eye and for the macular swelling (oedema) that uveitis can cause, delivering medication precisely where it is needed rather than through drops or tablets that affect the whole body.
Who typically needs this
- Patients with chronic or recurrent posterior or intermediate uveitis that is not adequately controlled with eye drops or systemic therapy.
- Patients with uveitis-related macular oedema, where swelling at the centre of the retina is blurring central vision.
- Those looking to reduce or avoid the side effects of long-term oral steroids or systemic immunosuppressive medication where a localised option is suitable.
- Suitability is assessed individually, taking into account eye pressure history, whether the natural lens is still present, and response to any previous implants.
What to expect
- The procedure is typically done as an outpatient visit under local anaesthetic (numbing) eye drops.
- The eye surface is cleaned and sterilised before the injection to reduce infection risk.
- The implant is delivered into the vitreous cavity through a fine needle or preloaded applicator, taking only a few minutes.
- Some implants gradually dissolve over a few months, while others are designed to release medication over a longer period.
- Eye pressure and the eye surface are checked shortly after the injection.
Recovery
- Mild eye discomfort, redness, or floaters are common for a few days after the injection.
- Antibiotic drops may be prescribed for a short period afterward to reduce infection risk.
- Follow-up visits check inflammation control, eye pressure, and the effect on vision.
- Because implants work for a limited period, repeat injections may be needed if the benefit wanes, timed according to monitoring results.
Risks to know about
- Raised eye pressure (which can lead to glaucoma) is a recognised risk with steroid implants and is checked for at regular follow-up visits.
- Cataract formation or progression is more likely with repeated steroid exposure over time.
- As with any injection into the eye, there are rare but serious risks including infection inside the eye (endophthalmitis), bleeding, or retinal detachment.
- Implant movement within the eye is uncommon but has been reported, particularly in eyes without their natural lens.
Frequently asked questions
Does the injection hurt?
Numbing drops or gel are used beforehand, so most patients feel pressure or mild discomfort rather than pain during the injection.
How long does one implant last?
It depends on the type used — some last a few months and others considerably longer; your ophthalmologist will time any repeat treatment based on how your eye responds.
Will I need eye pressure checks afterward?
Yes — regular eye pressure monitoring is a standard and important part of follow-up after a steroid implant.
Will this replace my other uveitis medications?
It sometimes reduces the need for systemic medication, but whether it can replace other treatment depends on your specific disease pattern and is decided case by case with your ophthalmologist.
Ready to see us?
Call the appointment desk, or book online — we will confirm your time by phone.
Sources consulted: AAO — Intravitreal Injections, Mayo Clinic — Uveitis: Diagnosis and Treatment, NHS — Uveitis . General medical information — not a substitute for professional diagnosis. Medically reviewed by Dr. Niranjana Bejan Singh.
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