Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment
At Meriam Park Laser Center, our team of eye care experts is dedicated to providing effective treatments for dry eye syndrome. We are proud to offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, a state-of-the-art treatment option for patients suffering from chronic dry eye.
What is IPL Treatment for Dry Eye?
Dry eye, or dry eye syndrome, is a chronic eye condition that causes frustrating symptoms such as:
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Excessive eye watering
- Redness
- Mucus in or around the eyes
- Stinging or burning feeling
- Grittiness
- Discomfort wearing contact lenses
- Blurry vision
One of the most common causes of dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction or MGD. Your meibomian glands are responsible for producing oils that are necessary to maintain a healthy tear film and keep your eyes lubricated.
When they become blocked or inflamed, it can lead to dry eye. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a light-based therapy that can help treat dry eye by reducing inflammation in the meibomian glands.
During IPL treatment, precisely calibrated light pulses at specific wavelengths are directed to the skin around your eyes. This targeted light energy reduces inflammation in the meibomian glands and abnormal blood vessels that contribute to MGD.
It can also help decrease bacteria on your eyelids and eyelashes, further preventing inflammation. When your meibomian glands are less inflamed, they can better produce and secrete the oils needed to keep your eyes comfortable and moisturized.
Many patients notice improvement in their symptoms after completing a series of IPL treatments. This is because IPL therapy addresses the root cause of dry eye rather than temporarily relieving symptoms.
How Does the IPL Treatment Process Work?
When you arrive for your IPL treatment at Meriam Park Laser Center, your provider will guide you through each step of the process. First, a protective eye shield will be placed over your eyes to ensure safety throughout the procedure.
Your provider will apply a thin layer of gel around your eyes, which helps the IPL device transmit light energy effectively to your skin and meibomian glands. As the device delivers light pulses to the area below your eyes and on your cheeks, you may experience a warm sensation.
While you may need to follow a few simple precautions after your session, you can return to your regular activities immediately following treatment. Results typically last several months, but it’s recommended to initially have a series of 4 treatments for optimal results.
Am I a Good Candidate for IPL Treatment?
Patients diagnosed with evaporative dry eye associated with meibomian gland dysfunction may benefit from IPL therapy. At Meriam Park Laser Center, we conduct a comprehensive consultation to determine whether IPL is right for you.
During this evaluation, your provider will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and analyze your skin type to ensure you’re an ideal candidate for the treatment. Various factors can influence whether IPL is right for you, including your overall eye health, the severity of your dry eye symptoms, and any other medical conditions you may have.
Can IPL Treat Other Conditions Besides Dry Eye?
While IPL is highly effective for treating dry eye, it can also address various skin concerns, such as:
Signs of Aging
IPL can treat common signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines by stimulating collagen production. This can also contribute to overall firmness and elasticity for a younger, refreshed appearance.
Unwanted Pigmentation
IPL can help reduce sun damage, age spots, and certain birthmarks by targeting and destroying melanin within these blemishes, resulting in a more even skin tone.
Redness
Patients with rosacea, broken capillaries, or vascular lesions like spider veins can benefit from IPL treatment, which can help reduce unwanted redness without damaging the surrounding skin.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of dry eye that haven’t responded to other treatments or want a minimally invasive way to treat your aesthetic concerns, IPL therapy may be right for you. Schedule an appointment at Meriam Park Laser Center in Chico, CA, today to find out whether you’re a good candidate for IPL!
