Dry Eye Treatment
Avon Vision Associates 860-677-6444
New Hartford Eye Associates 860-379-7183
Dry Eye Treatment – OptiLight by Lumenis
If you suffer from dry eye disease, you know how uncomfortable it can be. You may have tried over-the-counter eye drops and home remedies and found no lasting relief from your symptoms.
One of the in-office treatments we provide for patients suffering from dry eye disease is OptiLight by Lumenis, the first and only IPL (intense pulsed light) therapy FDA-approved for the management of dry eye disease due to meibomian gland dysfunction.
What is OptiLight, and how does it work?
The OptiLight IPL dry eye treatment is a way to alleviate symptoms associated with dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction using a specific wavelength of light. The treatment works by delivering short bursts of light to the affected area to reduce inflammation, which is a common cause of eye irritation symptoms. This treatment has been proven to be effective through multiple studies and research, showing a significant improvement in the indicators of dry eye. It has a multifaceted impact, including improving the production and volume of oil from the meibomian glands, increasing the time taken for tears to break up, reducing bacteria and the population of Demodex mites around the eyes, and eliminating superficial blood vessels that contribute to inflammation.
What are the benefits of OptiLight treatments?
Some of the benefits of OptiLight IPL dry eye treatments include the following:
- 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
- Reduction of redness or skin blemishes and mild reduction in fine lines and wrinkles in the treated area
What to expect during an OptiLight session
The OptiLight IPL treatment is fast, straightforward, and painless. The eye doctor or technician will start by covering your eyes with protective shields and applying a coupling gel to the treatment area. The gel used is like that used during ultrasound; it’s gentle on sensitive skin and can be easily removed after the treatment.
During the treatment, you may feel a mild warmth and see a bright flash as the light is applied to the skin. The procedure is generally comfortable and only takes about 15 minutes to complete. Once the treatment is finished, the gel will be removed, and sunscreen will be applied to the treated area.
Are there any risks associated with OptiLight?
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 can I prepare for an OptiLight session?
Before you undergo OptiLight treatment, your eye doctor will conduct 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.