Advanced dry eye treatment

Your doctor has recommended one or both of the following therapies for the treatment of dry eye, meibomian
gland dysfunction (MGD), chalazion, and/or blepharitis: LLLT (Low Level Light Therapy) and IPL (Intense
Pulse Light) are safe, non-invasive, effective, and stress-free solutions available for the majority of skin
types. LLLT and IPL can each be used separately or in combination for maximal effect. Most benefit from
three combination IPL/LLLT sessions spaced out by 2 weeks per session, although a fourth or fifth session is
needed for those with more severe symptoms. Repeat treatments are recommended every 6-12 months or
as needed for continued tear quality maintenance and symptom relief.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction or disease is a term used to describe functional abnormalities of the meibomian glands. Meibomian glands are glands that sit in your upper and lower eyelids. The glands release oils onto the surface of the eye every time we blink. The oils released prevent tears on the eye from evaporating, which in turn prevents the eye from drying out. A patient suffering from Meibomian Gland Dysfunction will notice symptoms of burning, stinging, watering or dry eyes. The image above shows the different stages of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. Whether your eyes have mild, moderate or severe Meibomian Gland Dysfunction IPL with LLLT can help your glands function better and decrease overall dry eye symptoms.

Low Level Light Therapy

LLLT with red wavelengths utilizes specially designed LED lights to deliver focused light that targets the eyelids to stimulate and rejuvenate the eyelid glands, reducing inflammation and swelling, resulting in improved tear quality and a reduction in symptoms. LLLT with blue wavelengths option has a purification and anti-bacterial effect when needed. LLLT with pink wavelengths combine red and blue wavelengths.

Intense pulsed light therapy

IPL treatment involves applying a series of light energy pulses, combined with bipolar radiofrequency (RF) for deeper penetration, to the upper cheeks and temples, which stimulates the meibomian glands by inducing coagulation of the fine telangiectatic vessels growing between the glands, reactivating their metabolism while reducing eyelid inflammation and softening the oil inside the glands. The result is improved tear quality and a reduction in symptoms.

Thermal lid expression

MiBoFlo (thermal lid expression) treatment supplies continuous, controlled heat to the outer margins of the eyelids. The heat and gentle massage melt and express the thickened oil clogging the openings of the Meibomian glands.

How are IPL and LLLT different from other dry eye treatments?

Standard dry eye treatments, such as eye drops, artificial tears, hot compresses, and eyelid scrubs, try to temporarily relieve symptoms instead of treating the root cause of the condition. The iPro IPL/LLLT system we use is unique in that we are targeting the source of the problem – the blood vessels surrounding the glands and the glands themselves. This enables them to secrete oils naturally and resume their moisturizing function, not only relieving symptoms but also slowing the progression of chronic dry eye.

Preparing for your appointment

We ask that your face be clean, dry, and free of any gels, sprays, lotions, creams, makeup, or oils and that you are not wearing contact lenses or any piercings in the area. For IPL treatments, discontinue sun tanning/tanning products, photosensitive medications, or exfoliating creams 1-2 weeks before treatment and avoid sun exposure or use sunscreen for two weeks following treatment. Treatments should not be done if pregnant or breastfeeding.

What happens during an IPL/LLLT treatment session?

If IPL is being performed, it will typically be done before LLLT. Protective goggles will be provided and you will feel short bursts of warmth/tingling on targeted areas on the cheeks and temples. For LLLT, a panel of LED lights will be placed about 8-10” above your face. Depending on the treatment either red, blue, or pink LED lights will then be focused on the eyelids and upper face. With your eyes closed, relax and enjoy the 7-15 minute treatment.

What happens during a MiBoFlo treatment session?

If a MiBoFlo is added to your combo treatments, we will have you close your eyes while we apply ultrasound gel. You may sense slight pressure as we massage your eyelids with the warm plate. You can expect the treatment to last about 6 minutes per eye.

What to expect after treatment?

Most patients note reduced symptoms for up to 6 months after the initial 3-4 treatments depending on severity. Continue any other eye treatments until discussing with your doctor as dry eye is chronic and multi-factorial. A combination of approaches is most successful. You may need lid expression after IPL/LLLT treatments and lid exfoliation often increases the efficacy of IPL/LLLT. Individual responses will vary according to skin type and follow up care.

Is IPL/LLLT covered by insurance?

While office visits/tests related to the evaluation of dry, watery, itchy, irritated eyes are covered by medical insurance, IPL/LLLT and related treatments are not currently covered by any medical plans.

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