What to Expect During an IPL Treatment for Dry Eyes

Tears help to keep the eyes healthy, clean, and lubricated. When there is a problem with the tear balance, it can lead to dry eyes. Dry eye symptoms include irritation, burning, the sensation of sand in the eyes, blurriness, and more. Home remedies and medications can help to treat dry eye syndrome. The condition is usually chronic, but therapy can help to relieve the symptoms.

IPL Dry Eye Treatment

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a therapy technique that uses gentle light pulses to target the area around the eyelids. Targeting the skin around the eyes helps to treat the underlying cause of dry eye.

Meibomian gland dysfunction is the most common cause of dry eye syndrome. It occurs when the oil-producing glands become blocked, reducing the oil needed for healthy tears. IPL helps to reduce inflammation and removes bacterial buildup in the area around the eyes. The treatment is painless and effective and does not require any downtime.

During IPL Treatment

IPL therapy is an outpatient procedure performed in an eye clinic. The optometrist uses a handheld device to perform the therapy. Before the treatment, the specialist places a protective shield over the eyes and applies cooling gel over the treatment area.

Then, the doctor places the IPL device over the eyelids. The light emitted helps to unclog crusty material blocking the meibomian glands. After opening the glands, the doctor might express a little oil to stimulate natural production.

After IPL Treatment

You can return to your regular duties immediately after IPL treatment. The doctor will prescribe a treatment plan depending on the severity of your condition. If you have severe dry eye, the doctor may recommend additional or more frequent treatments. Most patients need to return for treatment after nine months, but the duration will vary in individuals. You may need to use artificial tears between therapy sessions.

Results of IPL Therapy

Research suggests that IPL is effective for the treatment of MGD-induced dry eye. Most patients experience improvements after one or two treatment sessions. The results last longer than remedies such as artificial tears, eyelid scrubs, and warm compresses.

The long-lasting relief makes IPL a popular option for treating dry eye. Therapy helps to relieve symptoms and improve eye function. You will need to repeat the treatment regularly to experience longer-lasting relief. Most doctors recommend four monthly treatments for the best results.

Candidates for IPL Treatment

IPL is an effective treatment, but it is not for everyone. It is ideal for patients with chronic dry eye due to MGD. It helps to open the glands, boosting natural oil production and stabilizing the tear film. Your eye doctor will examine your eye condition to determine if you qualify for the treatment.

For more information on what to expect during and after IPL treatment for dry eyes, consult our optometrist. Visit Northside Vision at our office in Spokane, Washington. You can also call us at (509) 326-2772 to book an appointment today.