Cryo Surgery

Targeted Cold Therapy to Seal and Protect Your Retina

Cryo Surgery uses precisely controlled extreme cold to treat a range of serious eye conditions — particularly those involving the retina. It is a time-tested technique that has protected the sight of countless patients, and at RGC Eye Hospital, our specialists apply it with the accuracy and care that your eyes deserve.

What Is Cryo Surgery?

A small specialised probe is placed on the surface of the eye and delivers brief, controlled bursts of intense cold to a targeted area. This freezing creates a therapeutic scar that seals retinal tears, destroys abnormal tissue, or prevents further damage from spreading. The procedure is precise and well-tolerated, and does not require any large incisions — making it a practical option for conditions not suitable for laser treatment.

What Conditions Does It Treat?

• Retinal tears and holes — before they develop into a full detachment
• Retinal detachment — used as part of a broader surgical repair
• Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) — protecting vision in premature newborns
• Abnormal blood vessel growth in the retina
• Certain tumours and lesions inside the eye
• Inward-growing eyelashes that damage the eye surface

What Happens During the Procedure?

Step 1 — Numbing the Eye

Local anaesthesia is applied to ensure the procedure is entirely comfortable and pain-free from start to finish.

Step 2 — Placing the Probe

The cryoprobe is placed gently on the outer surface of the eye, positioned precisely over the area being treated. The surgeon monitors the retina in real time throughout.

Step 3 — Applying the Cold

Brief bursts of intense cold are delivered to the target area, creating a small therapeutic scar that seals, destroys, or contains the problem.

Step 4 — Done

The procedure typically takes 20 to 40 minutes. No large incision is made and you can go home the same day.

After the Procedure

Some redness and mild swelling are normal for a few days. Vision may be slightly blurred temporarily. Eye drops are prescribed to reduce inflammation and prevent infection. A follow-up visit confirms the treated area has healed correctly and your retina is stable.

Why Patients Trust RGC Eye Hospital

• Experienced retinal specialists who apply cryotherapy with exceptional accuracy
• Modern equipment for precise and safe treatment
• Careful follow-up to confirm healing and long-term retinal stability
• A reassuring, patient-focused approach from the very first consultation