Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy for Dry Eye

Overview:
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is a non-invasive treatment used to manage chronic dry eye disease, particularly Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) and associated inflammation. Originally used in dermatology, IPL has been adapted to safely treat the eyelid area and improve tear film stability by targeting underlying inflammation.

How IPL Works

IPL delivers pulses of broad-spectrum light to the skin around the eyes, particularly the cheeks and lower eyelids. The light penetrates the skin and:

  • Reduces abnormal blood vessels (telangiectasia) linked to inflammation

  • Decreases pro-inflammatory mediators on the ocular surface

  • Improves meibomian gland function by softening hardened oils

  • Targets Demodex mites and rosacea, which often contribute to lid disease

Treatment Procedure

  1. Preparation:
    The patient is fitted with eye shields to protect the eyes. A cooling gel is applied to the treatment area.

  2. Light Pulses:
    A handpiece delivers brief, controlled pulses of light to the skin around the lower eyelids and upper cheeks. The procedure typically lasts 10–15 minutes.

  3. Gland Expression (optional):
    After IPL, the meibomian glands may be expressed to release stagnant oils and improve tear film quality.

  4. Treatment Plan:
    A typical course includes 3–4 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart, with maintenance sessions as needed.

Benefits of IPL for Dry Eye:

  • Improves meibomian gland function

  • Reduces ocular surface inflammation

  • Enhances tear film stability

  • Decreases dependence on artificial tears

  • Provides relief from burning, redness, and irritation

Is IPL Right for You?

IPL is best suited for patients with:

  • Evaporative dry eye due to MGD

  • Ocular rosacea or facial telangiectasia

  • Recurrent styes or chalazia

  • Poor response to traditional lid hygiene and medications

Comfort. Clarity. Long-Term Relief.
IPL offers a safe, effective option for long-term relief of chronic dry eye symptoms by treating the root cause—inflammation and gland dysfunction.

DEQ-5 Dry Eye Assessment

1. Eye Discomfort

a) During a typical day in the past month, how often did your eyes feel discomfort?

b) When your eyes feel discomfort, how intense was this feeling of discomfort at the end of the day, within two hours of going to bed?

2. Eye Dryness

a) During a typical day in the past month, how often did your eyes feel dry?

b) When your eyes felt dry, how intense was this feeling of dryness at the end of the day, within two hours of going to bed?

3. Watery Eyes

During a typical day in the past month, how often did your eyes look or feel excessively watery?

Your DEQ-5 Score

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You have scored a 7 or higher on the DEQ-5 dry eye assessment. Your next step will be to determine the type of dry eye you have and what the underlying causes may be. To create a customized treatment plan schedule your appointment today for a dry eye evaluation!

Schedule Your Dry Eye Evaluation