IPL (Intense Pulse Light) is an effective dry eye treatment which uses a flash lamp that pulsates a high intensity light at selected wavelengths on the treated skin area around the eyelids. It is a technology that has been used in dermatology for a few decades. In 2002, Dr Rolando Toyo discovered the benefit of IPL in treating dry eyes whilst treating his patients who suffers from rosacea. Subsequently, Toyo had developed the protocol of treating dry eyes with IPL.
If you suffer dry eyes from Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), you might want to consider IPL as an effective treatment.
MGD is one of the main causes of dry eyes. It is caused by the blockage of the meibomian glands inside the eyelids. The function of meibomian glands is to produce a smooth layer of oil on the surface of your tears to prevent quick evaporation. However, with the oil glands being blocked, it results in unstable tears and quick evaporation, hence dry eyes. The problem with MGD is that it is not reversible. Once the glands become atrophic (death of the glands) there is no way for the oil glands to grow back and restore to its 100% function.
IPL is found to help stimulate the production of the oils in the meibomian glands, which will produce a much more stable tear film. This will ultimately result in an improvement of dry eye symptoms and prevent further atrophy of the meibomian glands.
Generally, four sessions are usually required.
Occasionally, a fifth session is required depending on the severity of your dry eyes.
For most effective treatment outcomes, we recommend the following treatment plan.
According to recent scientific studies, 86% of patient reported that they noticed an improvement in their dry eye symptoms after the third session of IPL. Usually after the fourth treatment, you will get dry eye reliefs for a minimum of six months, up to 29 months.
Although there are occasions where you may need to repeat treatments after 6-12 months depending on the severity of your MGD.
Unfortunately, like all procedures, there are some contraindications.
Below is a list of the most common contraindications:
