IPL Dry Eye Treatment for Lasting Relief

Dry Eye Relief with IPL

IPL – Intense Pulsed Light is an FDA-approved treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome.

Studies show the IPL Dry Eye Treatment provides lasting relief for 6 months to 2 years, depending on your eyes.
HSA and FSA-qualified expense
Reduces or eliminates your dependence on eye drops and dry eye medications
Treats the source of the dry eye problem
IPL has many additional cosmetic benefits such as reducing fine lines, wrinkles, pigment spots, and scars

Although traditional dry eye treatments such as artificial tears, dry eye medications, and punctal plugs can help alleviate the symptoms of dry eye syndrome in some patients, many do not find relief. This is where Intense Pulsed Light therapy (IPL) comes in. In this article, we will explore the use of IPL for dry eye treatment, including its benefits, potential side effects, and research findings.

What is IPL?

IPL, Intense Pulsed Light, is a new, FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment for dry eyes. In addition to treating Dry Eye Disease IPL is also used for other dermatological conditions such as reducing fine lines and wrinkles, treating acne rosacea, reducing or eliminating scars, and reducing unwanted body hair. Because of this, IPL is often referred to as the Photo Facial.

How Does IPL Treat Dry Eye Syndrome

Directly Treating The Cause of Dry Eye Disease

The meibomian glands produce a substance called meibum the oily component of your tears which makes your tears last longer. Inflammation plugs these glands up causing them to stop working resulting in pain, discomfort, and dryness. This inflammation accounts for 80% of all dry eyes. IPL directly treats this inflammation in the meibomian glands. For the most part, dry eye disease is an inflammatory condition. The inflammation may be in the lacrimal gland or more commonly in the meibomian glands which are found at the tip of your eyelids.

By reducing inflammation in the meibomian glands IPL treatment allows the gland to produce more high-quality tears. Because of the intense pulses of light, the glands are stimulated to work better. This kickstarts the mitochondria within the meibomian glands to produce oily tears.

IPL Stimulates Higher-Quality Tears

IPL therapy stimulates the meibomian glands to improve the quality of the oily layer of tears. During the treatment, the IPL device emits short pulses of intense light that penetrate the skin around the eyes. This light energy is absorbed by the meibomian glands, which are located just beneath the surface of the skin. The absorbed light energy causes the glands to produce better-quality oil, which helps to prevent the evaporation of tears.

Several studies have shown that IPL can significantly improve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. One study published in the journal Ophthalmology in 2015 found that IPL improved meibomian gland function and significantly reduced dry eye symptoms in patients with moderate-to-severe dry eye syndrome. Another study published in the journal Cornea in 2017 showed that IPL therapy improved tear breakup time and reduced ocular surface inflammation in patients with meibomian gland dysfunction.

IPL Therapy for Ocular Rosacea and Dry Eye Disease

Ocular rosacea is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the eyes and surrounding skin. It is a subtype of rosacea, which is a common skin disorder characterized by flushing, redness, and pimples on the face. Ocular rosacea can cause a range of symptoms such as dryness, redness, irritation, burning, and sensitivity to light.

IPL therapy has emerged as a promising treatment option for ocular rosacea. The light energy penetrates the skin and targets the blood vessels, reducing their size and decreasing inflammation. Treatment of ocular rosacea typically involves the whole face including the area around the eyes and nose.

A series of IPL sessions for ocular rosacea are typically spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart. The number of treatments required depends on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to the therapy. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, and there is little to no downtime after treatment.

Studies Show IPL Dry Eye Treatment is Safe and Effective

Several studies have shown that IPL therapy can be an effective treatment for ocular rosacea. One study published in the Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery found that patients with ocular rosacea who underwent IPL treatment experienced significant improvements in their symptoms, including decreased redness and burning sensations. Another study published in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy found that IPL therapy was effective in reducing the number of rosacea flares and improving the overall appearance of the skin.

IPL therapy for ocular rosacea typically involves a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart. The number of treatments required depends on the severity of the condition and the individual’s response to the therapy. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure, and there is little to no downtime after treatment.

Overall, IPL therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for ocular rosacea. It can help improve the appearance of the skin and reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms.

What is the IPL Dry Eye Treatment Experience?

A prism is placed on the skin under or around your eyelid and is used to transmit an extremely bright pulse of light at a specific wavelength (color) through the skin. A series of about 13 pulses are placed from the outside edge of one eye running under the eye and across the nose to the outer edge of the other eye. The procedure is then repeated.

IPL Provides Lasting Relief for Dry Eye Symptoms

Over a series of treatments, IPL softens the fluid inside the meibomian glands and reduces inflammation. Studies show 3 to 4 treatment sessions 2 to 4 weeks apart improve tear quality, For most patients, IPL provides lasting relief from dry eye symptoms for 6 months to 2 years or more depending on your eyes. In some cases, if needed, your doctor may also manually express the meibomian glands.

Other Treatments for Dry Eye Disease

IPL is not the only treatment option available for dry eyes. Other treatments include:

Artificial tears: Over-the-counter eye drops that can help lubricate the eyes.
Scleral Contact Lenses have become the standard of care practiced by keratoconus experts to treat keratoconus. A properly fit scleral contact lens typically provides comfort similar to a soft contact lens and vision on par with a gas-permeable lens. In almost all cases, you will experience better vision with scleral lenses than with eyeglasses or traditional contact lenses.
Prescription eye drops: These eye drops may be recommended if artificial tears are not effective.
Punctal plugs: Small, dissolvable, or silicone plugs are used to prevent tears from draining too quickly.
Omega-3 supplements: Supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve the quality of tears.
Lifestyle changes: Simple changes, such as taking breaks from the computer and avoiding dry, windy environments, can help reduce dry eye symptoms.

Insurance coverage for IPL

Since IPL is such a new treatment Medical insurance plans do not cover it. However, HSA and FSA plans can be used with IPL treatment for Dry Eye Disease.

Do You want to Learn More about IPL Dry Eye Treatment?

We offer complimentary IPL dry eye treatment consults to help patients decide if they may benefit from IPL treatment for their dry eye symptoms. You can schedule your free consultation online with one of our doctors at either our Colleyville or Keller/Southlake location. We can also schedule your appointment by calling 817.416.0333.

IPL Dry Eye Treatment FAQ

How Many IPL Treatments are Needed?

The number of IPL dry eye treatments needed can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, most patients require a series of four to six treatments, which are typically performed every two to four weeks. After the initial series of treatments, some patients may require maintenance treatments every six months to a year.

Is IPL Safe for Dry Eye Treatment?

Studies show IPL is a safe and effective treatment for dry eyes when performed by a qualified healthcare professional. However, as with any medical treatment, there are some risks involved. The most common side effects of IPL treatment for dry eyes include redness, swelling, and discomfort around the eyes. In rare cases, IPL can cause skin burns or changes in skin pigmentation. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of IPL with your healthcare provider before undergoing treatment.

How Does IPL Treat Dry Eyes?

IPL therapy works by stimulating the meibomian glands to improve the quality of the oily layer of tears. During the treatment, the IPL device emits short pulses of intense light that penetrate the skin around the eyes. Meibomian glands, located just below the surface of the skin, absorb light energy. The absorbed light energy causes the glands to produce better-quality oil, which helps to prevent the evaporation of tears.

Several studies have shown that IPL can significantly improve the symptoms of dry eye syndrome. One study published in the journal Ophthalmology in 2015 found that IPL improved meibomian gland function and significantly reduced dry eye symptoms in patients with moderate-to-severe dry eye syndrome. Another study published in the journal Cornea in 2017 showed that IPL therapy improved tear breakup time and reduced ocular surface inflammation in patients with meibomian gland dysfunction.

What is IPL?

Intense Pulsed Light therapy (IPL) is a non-invasive treatment that uses a high-intensity light source to treat various skin and eye conditions. The treatment involves using an IPL device that emits a broad spectrum of light to target specific areas of the skin or eyes. In the case of dry eyes, IPL targets the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of tears. The oily layer helps prevent the evaporation of tears, which can lead to dry eyes.

References

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Taub AF, Bucay V, Keller T, et al. Multicenter pivotal study of IPL for rosacea-induced erythema and flushing. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2015 Feb;17(1):32-7. doi: 10.3109/14764172.2014.986519. PMID: 27672409.

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Lasting IPL Dry Eye Treatment – The IPL Photo Facial