Retinal Vein Occlusion Treatment in Birmingham

NHS pathways are free but may involve multi‑week delays for assessment and treatment initiation, during which vision can deteriorate in vascular retinal disease, so expedited access can be valuable.

One of our patients with CRVO waited 6 months after his optician referred him to his local NHS clinic before he even got assessed by his local eye clinic. In that time we were able to diagnose and treat his CRVO with anti-VEGF injections to save his vision and facilitate him to maintain independence with his daily life.

Mr. Sahota provides consultant‑led care, OCT/OCT‑A diagnostics, and rapid treatment initiation where clinically appropriate to preserve vision and give continuity of care for your peace of mind.

His approach is guided by his fellowship training in medical retina at Moorfields Eye Hospital, applying world-class standards to care in Birmingham.

Moorfields‑trained expertise

• Mr. Dilraj Sahota completed advanced fellowship training in Medical Retina at Moorfields Eye Hospital and treats complex macular conditions including CRVO and BRVO using up‑to‑date intravitreal therapies.

• Care is delivered from retina‑equipped Birmingham clinics with consultant oversight from first exam to follow‑up for consistency and clarity.

Mr. Sahota uses advanced diagnostic technology to confirm RVO and guide treatment decisions:

OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): High-resolution cross-sectional scans measure retinal thickness and detect macular fluid. OCT guides treatment timing and monitors response to therapy.

​OCT Angiography (OCT-A): A non-invasive scan that maps blood flow in the retina without dye injection. OCT-A identifies areas of poor perfusion (ischaemia) that influence prognosis and treatment choices in CRVO versus BRVO.

​Dilated Fundus Examination: Comprehensive assessment of the retina, optic nerve, and retinal blood vessels to identify haemorrhages, swelling, and any new vessel formation.

​These tests are performed at your initial consultation, often with same-day results and a written treatment plan.

Anti-VEGF Injections

Anti-VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) drugs are the first-line treatment for macular oedema in RVO. These medications—Eylea (aflibercept) and Vabysmo (faricimab)—are injected directly into the eye to reduce fluid leakage and swelling.

​How it works: VEGF is a protein that causes abnormal blood vessel leakage. Anti-VEGF drugs block this protein, allowing the macula to dry out and vision to stabilise or improve.

​Treatment schedule: Typically monthly injections for the first 3-4 months, then extended intervals based on OCT findings. CRVO usually requires more frequent treatment than BRVO.

​Ozurdex Steroid Implant

Ozurdex is a slow-release dexamethasone implant that reduces inflammation and macular swelling over 4-6 months. It's particularly useful when Anti-VEGF response is insufficient or patient factors favour fewer clinic visits.

​How it works: The tiny implant is injected into the eye and gradually releases steroid medication to control inflammation and reduce fluid.

​Who benefits: Patients with persistent oedema despite Anti-VEGF, those unable to attend monthly appointments, or cases where steroids are clinically preferred.

​Monitoring and Ongoing Care

Treatment success depends on regular OCT monitoring and timely re-treatment when fluid recurs. Mr. Sahota provides consultant-led continuity throughout your care pathway—from diagnosis through loading phase to long-term maintenance—ensuring optimal outcomes.

Moorfields-Trained Expertise:

Mr. Dilraj Sahota completed an advanced fellowship in Medical Retina at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, specialising in complex retinal vascular diseases including CRVO and BRVO. He brings world-class training and experience to Birmingham.

​Rapid Access:

NHS waiting times for RVO assessment can be several weeks. One of our recent patients waited 21 weeks from optician referral to NHS appointment in Birmingham. Private care offers urgent appointments—often within days—with same-day imaging and treatment where clinically appropriate to minimise vision loss.

​Consultant-Led Continuity:

You will see Mr. Sahota personally for every consultation and treatment, ensuring consistent expert oversight rather than fragmented care by different practitioners.

​Advanced Imaging:

OCT angiography provides detailed blood flow maps that standard OCT cannot show, enabling more precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

​Latest Therapies: 

Access to the newest Anti-VEGF agents (Vabysmo) and Ozurdex implants, with treatment decisions based on your individual response and preferences

Initial Assessment

Your first appointment includes:

• Detailed medical history and symptom review

• Visual acuity testing

• Dilated fundus examination

• OCT and OCT angiography imaging

• Discussion of CRVO vs BRVO diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment options

• Written treatment plan with expected frequency

Same-week treatment can often be arranged when clinically appropriate to reduce macular swelling quickly.

​Loading Phase

For CRVO: Typically monthly Anti-VEGF injections for 3-4 months, with OCT monitoring at each visit to assess fluid response. More intensive treatment may be needed if significant ischaemia is present.

​For BRVO: Often requires fewer injections—sometimes 3-6 treatments achieve stable vision if oedema is sectoral and responds well.

​Maintenance and Long-Term Care

As the macula stabilises, injection intervals are gradually extended—from monthly to every 6-8 weeks, then potentially 3-4 months. OCT guides extension decisions to balance reducing treatment burden while preventing under-treatment.

​If fluid recurs, prompt re-treatment protects your vision. Mr. Sahota provides clear communication at each visit about next steps and long-term expectations.

Private RVO treatment costs depend on the drug used, number of injections needed, and facility location. Typical treatment episodes in Birmingham range from £1,400-£2,500 per injection, including consultation, imaging, and surgeon fees.

​For detailed pricing breakdowns, payment options, and insurance information, see our dedicated RVO treatment cost guide.

Birmingham Clinics: Convenient Access Across the West Midlands

Mr. Sahota offers private RVO care at two Birmingham locations:

Edgbaston Eye Consultants: 22 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 1PJ—convenient for Harborne, Edgbaston, and city centre patients.

​The Westbourne Centre: 53 Church Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 3SJ—near the Botanical Gardens with excellent parking and public transport links.

​Both clinics are easily accessible from Solihull, Sutton Coldfield, Wolverhampton, Walsall, and throughout the West Midlands, with flexible appointment times including evening and Saturday slots where available.

​Schedule online to book a consultation or request a complimentary 10-minute video consultation to discuss your symptoms.

Patient Testimonials from RVO patients: Real Results

"Absolutely excellent service. I was diagnosed with a retinal vein occlusion and referred to hospital for an implant to stabilise my eye condition. Dr Sahota and his team put me at ease and explained the process throughout. My sight is much better again. Many thanks for your help." — Google Review

​"I was informed I had RVO… I couldn't see anything from my right eye, and from being informed of this to having the injection was a very short time. Mr Sahota… his kindness, dedication, [and] professional expertise… outstanding. He took time to contact me after my post-op visit and explained the next steps. The blockage behind my eye has gone down, and the sight in my right eye…WOW is great." — Google Review

Is RVO an emergency?

Yes—sudden vision loss from RVO requires urgent assessment. Ischaemic CRVO has a high risk of sight loss. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chance of preserving vision. Contact the clinic immediately for urgent triage and same-day appointments where clinically indicated.

​How many treatments will I need?

CRVO typically requires 6-12 monthly injections initially, while BRVO may need 3-6 treatments. Individual response varies—OCT monitoring at each visit guides treatment frequency.

​What's the difference between CRVO and BRVO?

CRVO affects the main retinal vein and usually causes more severe vision loss requiring intensive treatment. BRVO affects a branch vein, involves less of the retina, and often has better outcomes with fewer treatments.

​Can I drive after treatment?

Your vision may be blurred immediately after injection due to dilating drops and the procedure itself. Arrange transport home after your first treatment—most patients can resume driving the following day.

​Will my vision fully recover?

Outcomes depend on how quickly treatment starts and the extent of retinal damage. Many patients experience significant vision improvement, though complete recovery isn't always possible. Early treatment offers the best chance of preserving sight. A poor vision at baseline often reduces the chance of full recovery.

​Can private medical insurance cover RVO treatment?

Some PMI policies cover Anti-VEGF injections and Ozurdex when medically necessary. Check your policy coverage and excess with your insurer before starting treatment—the clinic can provide necessary documentation for claims.

​Book Your RVO Assessment Today

Don't wait for vision to worsen. Schedule online now for rapid consultant-led assessment with Mr. Dilraj Sahota.

This guide provides general educational information about retinal vein occlusion and does not replace personalised medical advice from a qualified clinician following examination. Individual treatment requirements, drug choice, prognosis, and costs vary based on diagnosis, disease severity, imaging findings, and medical history. A written treatment plan and quotation will be provided after your consultation. If you experience sudden severe vision loss, new floaters, flashes, or suspicion of retinal detachment, seek urgent care immediately via emergency services or contact your nearest eye hospital.

​Last updated: October 2025