Eye-Light counteracts the obstruction or malfunction of the Meibomian glands by unclogging the oils needed to keep eyes healthy, moisturized and comfortable. 85% of patients who have received Eye-Light treatment report noticeable improvements after just 1 application. According to Eye Trends, patients with severe symptoms should undergo four Eye-Light treatments to ensure better, longer-lasting results.
What is Eye Light?
The treatments are a synergy of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT), which are gentle yet effective tools for treating Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Dry Eyes. Within just a few hours of Eye-Light, patients report noticeable improvements in their symptoms.
If you’re looking for Eye-Light treatment near Houston, Texas, Eye Trends from The Dry Eye Center At Eye Trends will provide you with the information and relief that you seek.
What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
Our tears are made up of three layers: the lipid (oil) layer, aqueous (water) layer, and the mucous (sticky) layer. These layers work in unison to lubricate and coat the eyes, keeping them moist and comfortable.
Your meibomian glands control the lipids in the eye, called meibum, which combine with other substances in the eye area to create a thin film that consistently lubricates your eyes. Meibum is an essential part of your eye’s makeup as it prevents the evaporation of the eye’s tear film.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction occurs when the meibomian glands fail to provide enough meibum. This can be triggered by various factors and causes the tear film to evaporate at a quicker rate, leading the eyes to feel dry and uncomfortable. 80% of Dry Eye is due to MGD.
How Does Eye-Light Work?
The Eye-Light system applies light pulses to the periorbital ( the region surrounding your eyes, including the eyelids, eyebrows, and upper cheekbones) and cheekbone areas of the face, gently warming the eyelids. This causes the meibomian glands to unclog and release oils, thus reducing the rapid evaporation of tears typically associated with MGD.
Eye-Light treats both the upper and lower eyelids simultaneously, and unlike other light treatments, it does not require a gel application. It is the only system that combines both the IPL and LLLT technologies into one device. Based on your unique needs, the doctor will examine the severity of your condition and input the information into Eye-Light’s computerized software. We offer the Eye-Light treatment in our office, conveniently located in Houston, Texas.
Does Eye-Light Hurt?
Eye-Light is a painless, two-step procedure. During the first part of the procedure, you will need to wear special protective glasses to shield your eyes. First, Eye Trends will administer the light pulses (IPL) around the entire eye and cheekbone areas. Then, during the second part of the procedure, the doctor will place a protective mask over your face through which the LLLT will be released.
It usually takes approximately 15 minutes to complete the Eye-Light application while you sit comfortably in a reclining chair. You can promptly resume your usual activities following the treatment.
Is Eye-Light Safe?
Eye-Light is an FDA-approved medical device that treats Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. It is a safe, non-invasive procedure, which is controlled by computer software built into the device. The light pulses from the IPL application are carefully directed at the periorbital and cheekbone area and never touch your eyes directly.
After the Eye-Light Procedure
Following the LLLT (the second part of the procedure), the doctor will provide you with a special skin cream to rehydrate the skin in the periorbital area of the face. Once the Eye-Light procedure is complete, no recovery time is needed and patients can resume normal activities. Should you experience any side effects or discomfort, or have any questions following the procedure, please contact our practice.
What Are the Side Effects of Eye-Light?
As with all laser treatments, there are some risks associated with Intense Pulsed Light. People with darker skin tones may not be suitable, as they may experience the rare effect of partial depigmentation (loss of skin color). In this case, talk to Eye Trends about any concerns and possible side effects.
Ask us about how Eye-Light can treat your eye condition and enhance your quality of life. Eye Trends and the caring and knowledgeable staff at The The Dry Eye Center At Eye Trends are always here to help patients experience the best vision care and treatment possible.
Toyos R, McGill W, Briscoe D. Intense pulsed light treatment for dry eye disease due to meibomian gland dysfunction; a 3-year retrospective study. Photomed Laser Surg. 2015;33(1):41–46. doi:10.1089/pho.2014.3819
