IPL Treatment

Optometrist Dry Eye IPL Machine
Dry Eye IPL Machine - Eyes on Brighton Optometrists

What is Intense Pulsed Light or IPL Treatment?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a relatively new technology that generates a polychromatic pulsed light via a series of calibrated and homogeneously sequenced light pulses. This a relatively painless procedure which does not require the use of injections or needles. The energy, spectrum and time period are precisely set to stimulate the Meibomian glands in order for them to return their normal function.

E­-Eye IPL is a device that has been specifically designed for improving dry eye syndrome due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

MGD is a blockage of the oil glands around the eyes. These oils are an important part of the tears. They form the top layer of the tears, which stops the watery component from evaporating. If the oil glands are chronically blocked, they start to shorten and lose their function.

There is no cure for MGD but treatments are available to reduce symptoms and reduce your dependence on eye drops.

E-Eye IPL generates an intense pulsed light (IPL) by producing perfectly calibrated light pulses. The energy, spectrum and time period are set to stimulate the meibomian glands and improve their function.

WHAT IS THE IPL TREATMENT PLAN?

At TheOPTOMETRIST we recommend the following treatment plan:

  • Day 1

    First treatment of IPL and manual gland expression.

  • Day 15

    Second treatment of IPL and manual gland expression.

  • Day 45

    Third treatment of IPL and manual gland expression.

  • Day 75

    Fourth treatment of IPL and manual gland expression.

  • Day 120

    Final Review

Dr Winter Chan

Typically, 20% of patients have an excellent result after the first treatment, 50% show a vast improvement after session 2 (day15) and 86% of clients report a major change in their dry eye symptoms after treatment 3 (day 45). Maximal results are achieved with a 4th treatment on day 75. A final review (day 120) will ensure improvements to the function of the Meibomian glands is monitored.
Repeat treatments may be needed at 6-12 months depending on the severity of your MGD.

Subsequent dry eye assessments with the K5 keratograph, alongside qualitative assessment in discussion with your optometrist, will allow us to assess the progress of your treatment. We can also show you any improvements in your eyes via digital imaging of your meibomian glands, tear film break-up time, tear meniscus height, and quality of the lipid layer.

Between treatments, it is recommended that you continue to take 2000mg of omega 3 daily or Lacritec supplements 2-3 times a day. You can also continue to use your ocular lubricants, as needed. Blinking exercises may also be prescribed by Eyes On Brighton.
Jason Teh Optometrist

IPL Dry Eyes

It is important to remember that there is no cure for MGD. However, at Eyes On Brighton we are committed to providing you with the latest treatments and technology available for treatment of Dry Eye Syndrome and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. IPL has been shown to be very successful as a treatment to reduce the severity and frequency of your dry eye symptoms, reduce your dependence of drops and improve your quality of life.
At Eyes On Brighton we also provide additional, or alternative, treatments depending on your symptoms and the causes of your Dry Eyes.
Other dry eye treatments available are:
  • LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System for treating Evaporative Dry Eye caused by MGD.
  • Blephasteam eyelid warming device to relieve symptoms due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
  • Meibomian Gland Expression
We also recommend lifestyle changes, the use of Omega 3 supplements, specific eye drops for your symptoms, regular blinking exercises, and can provide eye-warming masks that you can use at your own convenience at home

We are always happy to discuss any questions about dry eye treatment or dry eye symptoms with you in store or over the phone. If you require a comprehensive dry eye assessment, your optometrist will provide further information on the day of your appointment and well as details of what you require for your dry eye treatment action plan.

Know more IPL Information

The results of IPL treatment for MGD-related dry eyes are sometimes felt on the day of treatment and can be visible after just a few hours. Often, your optometrist will express your meibomian glands to help remove any blockage and also to assess the quality of your oils. The effect of IPL treatment is cumulative. Maximal results will be achieved once you complete your 4 session treatment plan.

IPL Treatment FAQs

What do I do before an IPL Treatment?
IPL treatment for dry eye needs a through eye assessment to ensure the underlying causes of dry eye and any other information that your optician or ophthalmologist needs to proceed with the treatment.
How do I prepare for dry eye treatment?
  • Remove any eye products from skin care to makeup
  • Avoid straining your eyes
  • Get a good sleep
  • Avoid submerging your eyes in chlorinated water
How soon do I feel the results?
Most patients feel the effects of the IPL treatment a few minutes after the procedure. However, this is a session of treatments so it may take full effect on the 3rd session.
dry eye symptoms