Intense Pulsed
Light Therapy
Treatment for Dry Eye – Intense Pulsed Light therapy
If you suffer from dry eye, you know how annoying and uncomfortable it can be. You may have tried every home remedy and over-the-counter solution with no relief. If you’re looking for a long-term solution, you may want to consider IPL therapy. But what is IPL therapy and how does it work? Read on to find out everything you need to know about this treatment option.
What is Intense Pulsed Light therapy?
IPL therapy is a type of light therapy that uses high-intensity pulses of light to improve the health of the tissues in your eyes. The light energy from the treatment helps to increase blood flow and reduce inflammation. Originally used by dermatologists to treat rosacea, IPL therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for dry eye due to meibomian gland dysfunction. IPL therapy treatments are safe, gentle, and FDA-approved.
What can I expect during Intense Pulsed Light therapy?
During an IPL therapy session, a hand-held device is used to deliver pulses of light into your eyes. You will likely feel a brief sensation of warmth or pressure when the light hits your eye, but the procedure is otherwise painless.
The heat generated by the wavelengths of light releases oils that have become hardened and have clogged the meibomian glands so that the blockages are removed which are causing the chronic dry eye symptoms and the overall quality of the tears are improved.
Most people need 3-5 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart to see noticeable results. After your initial series of treatments, you may only need maintenance treatments once or twice a year to keep your symptoms under control.
What are the benefits of Intense Pulsed Light therapy?
Some of the benefits of IPL dry eye treatment include:
- Quick treatment times – can be completed during a lunch break
- Long-lasting results
- Immediately return to your daily activities after treatment – no recovery period
- Decrease your dependence on eye drops
- Treat the underlying cause of dry eye, not just the symptoms
What are the risks associated with IPL therapy?
There are very few risks associated with IPL therapy. The most common side effect is temporary redness or swelling of the treated area. Some people may also experience temporary changes in vision, like increased sensitivity to light or blurry vision. These side effects usually go away within a few hours after treatment.
How to prepare for an IPL therapy treatment
Before you undergo IPL therapy, your eye doctor will likely do a complete evaluation of your eyes to make sure you are a good candidate for the treatment. This will likely include a physical exam, as well as tests to measure the health of your eyes and tear production. Your eye doctor may also ask you to avoid using makeup or lotions on your face for 24 hours before treatment, as these can increase the risk of side effects.
Aftercare instructions for IPL therapy treatment
IPL therapy treatments are performed at our office. Afterward, you will be able to ride home without any restrictions. However, you should avoid rubbing or putting pressure on your eyes for at least 12 hours after treatment. You should also avoid exposure to sunlight and bright lights for at least 24 hours after treatment, as this can irritate your eyes.
IPL therapy is a safe and effective way to treat dry eye. The procedure is quick and easy, with most people only needing 3-5 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart. After your initial series of treatments, you may only need maintenance treatments once or twice a year to keep your symptoms under control. If you’re looking for a long-term solution for dry eye, IPL therapy may be right for you!