Our newest weapon in the battle against dry eye disease is INTENSE PULSED LIGHT (IPL)

IPL finally gives us an effective and lasting treatment for Dry Eyes.

IPL is not a laser. It is a xenon flash lamp that uses specific filters to target precise problems.

By targeting vascular lesions in the eyelids and upper face, it decreases inflammation in the tear glands allowing them to produce more tears

The infrared component of the light heats the glands and melts the sticky secretions allow them to flow better.

IPL also kills 80-90% of the bacteria within the glands making it very useful for conditions like blepharitis, styes and rosacea.

IPL obtains the best results with 4 treatments spaced about 4 weeks apart but the treatment plan is tailored to each patient’s individual needs and response to treatment. Most patients notice significant improvement after the first treatment. Dry eye relief is long lasting and noted up to and beyond one year. Occasionally, one maintenance session annually is needed to maintain normal gland function.

As mentioned above, IPL is not only useful for dry eyes but is a very effective treatment for rosacea, blepharitis and recurrent or stubborn styes.

Treatments usually take about 30 minutes and include debridement of the eyelid margins (somewhat like a facial for your eyelids) and manual expression of your tear gland secretions. There is NO downtime or special care required after your treatment.

If you have any of these conditions and haven’t been able to get lasting relief, call us for an appointment to see if IPL is right for you.