IPL FAQ
Unlike other dry eye treatments such as artificial tears and warm compresses, IPL offers a more permanent solution to your ocular surface disease by targeting the underlying cause instead of only the symptoms.
What is IPL?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy is a light-based treatment which has traditionally been used in dermatology to treat different skin conditions such as rosacea, sunspots, and acne. Lumenis Optima IPL is a gentle and effective drop-free drug-free solution which targets Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and chronic inflammation, both causes of dry eye disease.
How does it Work?
IPL technology uses light pulses to penetrate the tissue and create heat, targeting the abnormal vessels that are the root cause of inflammation. The body’s natural reaction to the treatment removes the abnormal vessels and heals the inflammation which reduces eyelid redness and improves overall skin appearance. The pulses of light also help liquify and loosen oils that have clogged the eyelids’ meibomian glands, helping restore a normal oil flow in the tear film. A steady and balanced tear film is crucial for a healthy eye and stable vision.
How is IPL performed?
IPL is an in-office treatment offered here at Broadway Eye Clinic. After your initial dry eye evaluation, if you are a candidate for IPL, you will receive a symptom and skin questionnaire to help customize the treatment for your skin type and condition.
During your IPL treatment, protective pads are placed over the eyes for your safety. A cooling gel is then applied to the eyelid area. Usually, only the lower eyelids are treated. A handheld device with a glass prism will then be placed over the gel and treatment area. An intense flash of light, or pulse, is beamed through the prism to the treatment area. The pulses are strategically directed across your face near the eyelids from ear to ear. Each session lasts approximately 15 minutes.
Is IPL Safe? Does IPL hurt?
Lumenis IPL is safe and FDA cleared for over 20 different skin indications. During your treatment, you may experience a warm sensation as the light is applied to your skin.
What should I expect after my IPL treatment?
Immediately following your treatment, you may experience some redness and discomfort in the treated areas that will usually disappear within a few hours. Some patients may experience a mild sunburned feeling that should subside in a few days. In most cases, patients are able to resume their daily activities the same day.
How often should I be getting IPL treatments?
For optimal results, typically four initial sessions are recommended, spaced apart by two to four weeks. Maintenance treatments, once every six months, are recommended for optimal long-term results. Our optometrist will help determine which care plan best fits your skin type and condition.
If you are interested in learning more about IPL and your treatment options, schedule your ocular surface disease evaluation here.
*Please note, not all patients are candidates for IPL. Our optometrists will customize a treatment plan for your condition and lifestyle.
