Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

How does IPL work for dry eye: IPL uses high intensity light to effectively treat the cause of dry eye and styes. The most common cause of dry eye is caused by dysfunction in the Meibomian glands, which produce the lubricating layer of the tear film. The heat produced by the IPL liquefies the oil in the glands resulting in improved tear quality. Specific wavelengths of light target blood vessels in the eyelids resulting in reduced redness and inflammation. This in office treatment addresses the root cause of dry eye, rather than temporarily relieving symptoms. IPL also as secondary aesthetic benefits including reduced pigmentation, scarring and redness.

What is involved in the treatment: This non-invasive procedure is performed in office over a series of treatments. Light energy is applied to the skin underneath the eyes, or directly to the eyelids following insertion of protective eye shields. Following the procedure your doctor will use a device to express the heated oil out of the glands. Patients will experience a heated sensation or mild elastic band snap, and the treatment requires no downtime. Relief is often experienced after one procedure, however it is most effective with a series of procedures.