Macular Degeneration Injection Costs in the UK
Anti-VEGF injections (Lucentis, Eylea, Vabysmo) slow wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by blocking abnormal blood vessels that damage the macula. Private UK eye hospitals offer consultant-led injection clinics with OCT scanning, sterile procedure rooms, and rapid scheduling so patients don’t depend on NHS capacity.
👁️ Each visit includes visual acuity checks, OCT imaging to measure fluid build-up, and the intravitreal injection itself. Some clinics provide “treat-and-extend” schedules to reduce visit frequency once the macula stabilises.
Planning cataract surgery too? Compare costs in our private cataract surgery guide.
How Much are Macular Degeneration Injections in the UK?
Single anti-VEGF injection (Lucentis/Eylea): £900 to £1 300 per eye.
Vabysmo or Beovu (newer agents): £1 200 to £1 600 per injection.
Three-injection loading course: £2 500 to £3 800 including scans and follow-ups.
OCT scan + consultant review only: £180 to £300.
Home medication delivery for self-funding patients: £100 to £180 per shipment.
Regional Price Differences in the UK
London (Central): Premium eye hospitals charge £1 100 - £1 600 per injection.
Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds: Expect £900 - £1 300, often with evening clinics.
Smaller cities (Edinburgh, Cardiff, Newcastle): Clinics quote £850 - £1 200, though injection days may run only twice a month.
Factors that Affect Injection Pricing
💉 Drug choice
Vabysmo or Beovu cost more than Lucentis/Eylea because of extended dosing intervals and licensing fees.
📅 Frequency of visits
Loading phases (monthly injections) increase costs compared with treat-and-extend schedules.
👩⚕️ Consultant involvement
Consultant ophthalmologist-administered injections cost more than nurse-led clinics but include surgical pathways if complications arise.
🏥 Hospital facilities
Private theatres with OCT suites, sterile pods, and emergency support raise overheads.
📍 Location
Central London hospitals have higher staffing and estate costs than regional centres.
How to Save Money on AMD Injections
📦 Buy treatment bundles
Paying for three-injection courses or annual packages reduces per-dose pricing.
🧾 Use PMI or manufacturer support
Private insurance may cover injections once vision criteria are met; pharma assistance programs sometimes discount drug costs.
🚆 Travel regionally
Travelling to Manchester or Leeds can save £200 - £400 per injection while maintaining consultant care.
🍎 Optimise lifestyle
Stopping smoking, managing blood pressure, and taking AREDS2 supplements slow progression, reducing injection frequency.
FAQs
Do intravitreal injections hurt?
Anaesthetic drops numb the eye, so most people feel only mild pressure or a quick pinch lasting a few seconds.
How many injections will I need?
Expect three loading doses one month apart, then maintenance every 6 - 12 weeks depending on OCT results and fluid recurrence.
Can I skip an appointment?
Skipping injections risks vision loss because fluid builds quickly - contact the clinic to reschedule as soon as possible.
Is NHS treatment available?
Yes, the NHS covers wet AMD injections, but private clinics help if you need shorter waits, extended monitoring, or access to the latest drugs.
Conclusion
Anti-VEGF injections cost £900 - £1 600 per dose or £2 500 - £3 800 for starter bundles. Buying treatment blocks, using insurance, and travelling to regional eye hospitals keeps central vision stable without runaway bills. 🎯
 |
Jane Smith |
| Am British, live in London (1985–present) |
