Cryotherapy

What Is Cryotherapy?

Cryotherapy for eyes is an advanced ophthalmology procedure that uses freezing temperatures to treat a variety of different eye conditions that threaten your vision. This treatment method is similar to laser eyes treatment, but uses cold instead of heat. Other names for cryotherapy include cryosurgery and cryogenic surgery.

During the cryotherapy procedure, damaged or diseased tissue is frozen or destroyed to promote the formation of a scar. Extremely cold substances known as cryogens are used for this purpose. The coldest and most commonly used cryogen is liquid nitrogen. Other cryogens doctors may use include carbon dioxide and argon gas.

To preserve your eyesight, vision problems and eye abnormalities need to be addressed promptly by experienced ophthalmologists who are experts in their field. In New York City, the best place to go for vision diagnostics and treatment is Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants of New York (VRMNY), home to the region’s top ophthalmologists and retinal specialists.

What Conditions May Benefit from Cryotherapy Eye Treatment?

Cold temperatures have been used for thousands of years to soothe injuries. Cryotherapy in eyes, however, has only been used in ophthalmology since the mid-1960s, when the cold temperature could be generated and controlled artificially. Eye problems that successfully benefit from cryotherapy’s freeze treatment include:

• Tears or detachment of your retina
• Leaking blood vessels in your eye
• Abnormal tissues from surface eye cancers that originate in your eye
• Uncontrolled intraocular pressure, which can lead to glaucoma

Cryotherapy is sometimes used to stop or slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels that happen because of medical conditions such as diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration. The leading cause of blindness in the Unites States is disorders of the retina, and cryotherapy for eyes is an effective treatment of retinal problems. Especially when implemented early, cryotherapy can resolve vision issues, so seek a diagnosis from a top retinal specialist at the first sign of vision problems.

Am I a Candidate for Cryotherapy in Eyes?

Since there’s no need for incisions during cryotherapy for eyes, it’s a safe, effective treatment for most people. Rare side effects, which are greatly reduced when you rely on the expert retinal specialists with years of experience at VRMNY, may include temporary dry eye, changes in visual clarity or light halos.

Your eye doctor can determine if you’re a good candidate for this procedure. The decision depends on your condition and overall health. But cryotherapy is one of the best solutions to treat a variety of eye diseases, such as:

• Ocular melanoma
• A torn retina
• Glaucoma
• Cataracts
• Pars planitis
• Abnormal blood vessels
• Coats disease

What Happens During Cryotherapy Eye Surgery?

Cryotherapy eye surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure in the office of your ophthalmology practice at VRMNY, either in Manhattan, Westchester or Brooklyn. It usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes to complete, and you’re awake during the procedure. You won’t be able to drive right away after it’s done because of blurry vision, so have a friend or family member accompany you to make sure you get home safely. The process used for the procedure includes several steps:

• The eye is numbed with drops and an injection.
• A small instrument known as a cryoprobe is applied to the outer surface of your eye.
• Several bursts of very cold gas are administered, which freezes the targeted tissue.

The cryoprobe is attached to a freezing unit called a cryoconsole, which controls the rapid cooling and thawing needed for eye surgery. You’re not likely to experience pain during cryotherapy. There may be a cold sensation, but that goes away quickly. Some patients compare it to an “ice cream headache.”

How Long Does It Take to Recover from Cryotherapy Eye Surgery?

The normal aftereffects of the procedure typically resolve within a couple days, causing more inconvenience than pain. To prevent complications, avoid vigorous activity for the first few days after surgery. Things you may experience after cryotherapy eye surgery include:

• Redness or puffiness for 10 to 14 days, which may be relieved by applying a cold compress
• Eyesight that’s slightly blurry
• Light sensitivity

Your doctor may prescribe eye drops to reduce redness. These symptoms gradually subside over a week or two. Let your VRMNY doctor know right away if you experience any level of vision loss, pain not relieved by over-the-counter medication or worsening swelling and redness around the eye. Have your eyes evaluated if you experience floaters, which are tiny dark shapes that float in front of your field of vision.

Where Can I Get Cryotherapy in New York City?

At VRMNY, the team of eye professionals includes internationally known leaders in diagnosing and treating eye conditions. It’s the largest retina and ophthalmology practice in the New York Metropolitan area. A comprehensive range of educational, medical and surgical services are offered at the state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Laser surgeries
• Cataract eye surgery
• Cornea transplants
• Glaucoma surgery
• LASIK surgery
• Lensectomy
• Stye surgery
• Intravitreal injections
• Retinal detachment repair
• Lensectomy

When you entrust the care of your eyes to VRMNY, you receive diagnostics tests using the most advanced equipment available. You can expect compassionate and thorough care, as well as the most up-to-date treatment options. Contact VRMNY today to schedule a consultation at the most convenient location for you.