Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy
In the US, about six million women and three million men have moderate or severe dry eye syndrome, and it is estimated that an additional 20 to 30 million people have mild cases of dry eye syndrome. Symptoms include blurred vision, foreign body sensation, and sensitivity to light. Because the symptoms can mimic other syndromes, chronic dry eye is often undiagnosed, which can lead to ocular complications such as cornea ulceration.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy for dry eye is an effective outpatient treatment. Dr. Chu first cleans the face and places shields on both eyes to protect the lids and lashes. A cooling gel is applied to the eye area skin and then Dr. Chu passes the IPL handheld device across the skin, allowing the pulse of energy to heat the meibomian glands. The treatment also seals the delicate blood vessels at the lid.
IPL works on dry eye by creating a significant amount of superficial heat. Consider it a substantial warm compress in which the heat allows for better oily secretions from the glands. It is this oil that keeps the tear film stable. It also closes the small blood vessels at the lid making the lids appear better.
“One of the pleasant side effects of this procedure is younger, healthier looking skin,” says Dr. Chu. “ It’s an element that patients like, that besides improving their comfort and vision, can improve the look of their skin.”
The complete procedure typically lasts less than 15 minutes. Patients receive one treatment every month for four months. Typically maintenance treatments are needed annually or semi-annually. Results can be seen after the initial treatment and typically increase after each session.
Fox 9 News Story on IPL Dry Eye Treatment
To find out if Intense Pulsed Light Therapy is right for you, please contact Chu Vision.