Dry eyes are more than just an annoyance. They can present a threat to your eye health and vision. Without proper lubrication, even the act of blinking can cause tears in the delicate tissues of your eyes. In a dry climate like Arizona, where particles of dirt and sand often come with each breeze, it’s important to take all possible steps to address this condition.
If dry, irritated eyes are affecting your quality of life, talk to your eye care professional about Intense Pulsed Light (or IPL) therapy. This simple procedure can have a profound effect on your eye health!
What is Intense Pulsed Light Therapy?
Tears lubricate your eyes and keep them nourished. They’re made up of water, mucus, and oil, which combine to keep your eyes healthy. When your tear ducts don’t make enough tears, or they don’t make enough of one of these components, you can develop dry eyes.
IPL was originally developed as a treatment for certain skin issues. It was then found to be a safe and effective means of treating dry eyes. IPL therapy uses focused but gentle pulses of light to melt away obstructions in your eyelids that may affect the quantity or quality of your tears.
If you have meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) or dry eye syndrome (DES), this treatment may be able to help.
What to Expect from Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
The name can seem intimidating, but a typical appointment for Intense Pulsed Light therapy is anything but! This is a safe, easy treatment that can fit into anyone’s schedule. All you have to do is sit back and close your eyes!
Your eyecare professional will place a shield over your eyes to protect them from the light pulses. They’ll also spread a layer of gel over the skin around your eyes. Then, they’ll hold a small wand over your eyelids to deliver the pulses of light and melt away any obstructions. It’s that simple!
Patients usually notice an improvement after one or two treatments. Monthly follow-up appointments are recommended to keep the tears flowing freely.
Banish Dry Eyes at Valley Eyecare Center
Say goodbye to dry, irritated eyes with help from your friends at Valley Eyecare Center! Talk to one of our vision professionals about if IPL is right for you. Give us a call at (602) 955-2700 to set up an appointment, or contact us online!
