Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Treatment

 
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Intense pulsed light (IPL) is an FDA approved in-office treatment that is non-invasive and requires no medication. It uses pulses of non-laser light to eliminate abnormal blood vessels and thereby decrease inflammation around the eyelids. IPL stimulates healthy meibomian gland function and reduces the population of both Demodex and bacteria, creating healthy eyelid function and tear production.

The initial treatment protocol requires 4 sessions scheduled 3-4 weeks apart. Many patients report increased symptom relief after each session with a noticeable improvement in symptoms at the end of the 4 sessions. Quarterly maintenance IPL treatments are recommended for patients who suffer from chronic ocular surface diseases, including:

  • Ocular rosacea

  • Styes

  • Dry eye

  • Demodex

  • Blepharitis

If left untreated, inflammation in and around the eyelids can affect the health and function of the meibomian glands. Vascular abnormalities often develop in the presence of inflammation. When these abnormal vessels develop around the eyes, they begin releasing inflammatory agents that spread to the eyelids.

These inflammatory agents can lead to inflammation of the eyelids and tear film, thereby triggering complications such as ocular rosacea (eyelid redness), poor meibomian gland function, and increased frequency of styes. Uncontrolled ocular surface inflammation further contributes to the development of dry eye disease (DED).

 
 
 
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