How IPL Provides Long-Term Relief for Chronic Dry Eye
Dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions to affect adults in New Zealand. There are many causes of dry eye, but one of the most common is a condition called meibomian gland dysfunction. Intense Pulsed Light, or IPL for short, is one of the newest techniques for treating dry eye that is caused by meibomian gland dysfunction.
What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
Meibomian gland dysfunction, sometimes called MGD, is a fairly common eye condition and a leading cause of dry eye syndrome, accounting for around 50% of cases. The meibomian glands are found in the upper and lower eyelids. Their purpose is to produce the oil that forms the lubricating layer of tear film and prevent it from evaporating too rapidly. There are around 20-40 meibomian glands in both the upper and lower eyelids, although the exact amount varies between individuals.
When the meibomian glands work properly, they secrete oils into the tear film. However, sometimes the glands fail to work effectively, meaning that not enough oil is produced. In other instances, hardened oil deposits become stuck in the glands, preventing enough oil from mixing with the other substances in tear film. This reduces its quality and makes it less effective, leading to symptoms of dry eyes. These symptoms include blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and, of course, eyes that feel dry and uncomfortable.
How Does IPL Treatment Work?
IPL treatment is very safe and straightforward. The treatment uses technology to deliver high-energy pulses of light in a very specific manner onto the area where the meibomian glands are. These lights penetrate the skin and stimulate the meibomian glands to break down any hardened oil deposits and prompt the glands to produce oil again.
Once you arrive, the skin around your eyes will be cleaned, including removing any traces of make-up. Next, goggles will be placed over your eyes to protect them from the intense light of the IPL device. This is important because the light could otherwise damage your eyes. Once the goggles are in place, a clear gel will be placed on the skin and the IPL device will be applied.
The treatment is completely painless and there’s no need for any anesthetic. It’s also fast and your appointment should take less than an hour from start to finish. In some instances, your technician may follow the IPL application with meibomian gland expression, where gentle pressure is applied to the eyelids in order to encourage oil production.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
In most cases, patients are recommended to have four treatments spaced over a ten-week period. This will help you to achieve the maximum benefit and sustain it for as long as possible. This is because the effects of IPL treatment are cumulative, meaning that it is effective for longer after multiple treatments. After your fourth treatment, you could benefit from relief from your meibomian gland dysfunction for up to a year before further treatment is needed.
If you would like more information about dry eyes or IPL treatment, please speak to our experienced and knowledgeable eye experts at NVISION Eyecare in Rosedale Auckland by calling 09-884-0034 today.
