Intense pulsed light (IPL) has been shown to improve skin texture and tone, but recently, it has been used to help individuals who suffer from chronic dry eyes. At the Wichita Vision Institute, we perform IPL laser treatments on our clients to help clear their meibomian glands and restore a free flow of natural oils.
This is a very simple procedure that can take only about 30 minutes to perform. While it’s not a permanent solution for dry eyes, the results are long-lasting. Clogged glands that cannot properly secrete saltwater and oil are the main cause of dry eyes, but this procedure can correct the problem without the need for surgery or other invasive treatments.
Problems with Meibomian Glands
These are much like skin pores in that they secrete oils. Normally, the oils and also the water that comes from the tear ducts keep the surface of our eyes and the adjacent lids at the proper moisture level. As we age and mature, these glands can become clogged as oil hardens and binds to pollutants such as dust and grit.
Opening up the pores can be accomplished via surgical intervention, but the side effects can negatively affect the ability of the individual to recover properly. Most of the over-the-counter eye drops don’t clear the pores. On the other hand, IPL laser treatments can effectively unclog the pores and restore a natural flow of oil.
How IPL Works
This is similar to a traditional laser treatment, but an IPL device emits broad-spectrum light that delivers less intense heat. The beam is thin and focused, and it’s made up of a carefully calibrated selection of wavelengths. The light energy is absorbed by the rather dark tissues of the meibomian glands, and this, in turn, heats up and literally melts away the clogs that are preventing oil secretion.
Consultation and Treatment
Anyone who is experiencing chronic dry eyes and fatigued, red eyes may be a candidate. During the consultation, we will review the client’s medical history and examine the glands and ducts of the eye very closely.
Depending on the severity of the problem, we may schedule several treatments, spaced apart by a week or so. The amount of energy emitted by an IPL laser device is rather weak but highly concentrated, and we don’t want to apply too much heat energy in a single treatment session.
The client wears eye shades that cover the eyeball but not the surrounding tissues. The lamp is aimed directly at the gland, and each pulse of energy lasts only about two milliseconds. After several bursts of energy, the clogs in the glands are loosened and partly liquefied.
Contact Us for More Information
This is a revolutionary new application of IPL therapy, and it produces positive results that last for quite some time. If you’re battling dry, fatigued eyes and aren’t satisfied with the effects of eye drops, IPL laser treatment may be just the solution you’re looking for. Contact the Wichita Vision Institute today to learn more and to schedule your consultation.