OptiLight by Lumenis, Milford, CT
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?
OptiLight IPL therapy is an innovative solution designed to alleviate the symptoms associated with dry eye disease and meibomian gland dysfunction. It employs a specific wavelength of light, delivered in short bursts to the affected area, reducing inflammation—a common cause of eye irritation. Multiple studies and research have proven OptiLight’s effectiveness, demonstrating significant improvements in dry eye indicators. The treatment has several benefits, such as enhancing meibomian gland oil production, increasing tear breakup time, reducing bacteria and Demodex mite populations around the eyes, and eliminating superficial blood vessels contributing to inflammation.
Advantages of OptiLight treatments
OptiLight IPL therapy offers several benefits, including:
- Swift treatment times – perfect for a lunch break!
- Long-lasting results
- Immediate return to daily activities – no recovery period needed
- Reduced reliance on eye drops
- Addressing the underlying cause of dry eye, not just the symptoms
- Reducing redness or skin blemishes and providing mild reduction in fine lines and wrinkles in the treated area
What to expect during an OptiLight session
OptiLight IPL treatments are quick, simple, and painless. The eye doctor or technician will begin by placing protective shields over your eyes and applying a gentle coupling gel to the treatment area, similar to the gel used in ultrasound procedures.
During the treatment, you may experience mild warmth and see a bright flash as the light is applied to the skin. The procedure is generally comfortable and takes approximately 15 minutes to complete. After the treatment, the gel will be removed, and sunscreen will be applied to the treated area.
The most common side effect is temporary redness or swelling in the treated area. Some individuals may also experience temporary vision changes, such as increased light sensitivity or blurry vision. These side effects usually subside within a few hours following the treatment.
Preparing for an OptiLight treatment
Before undergoing OptiLight IPL therapy, your eye doctor at Lighthouse Vision will perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine if you are a suitable candidate for the treatment which can include tests to assess your eye health and tear production. Your eye doctor might also request that you avoid using makeup or lotions on your face for 24 hours before the treatment, as these can heighten the risk of side effects.
If you’re struggling with dry eye symptoms and want to explore the potential of OptiLight IPL therapy, contact us today to schedule an appointment!