Lumenis OptiLight IPL: A New FDA Approved Treatment for Dry Eye Disease

Tear evaporation is the primary driver in the majority of cases of Dry Eye Disease (DED), yet its impact remains largely unchecked

Patients with dry eye disease (DED) are significantly more likely to report problems with performing everyday activities, such as:

• Reading a book

• Doing professional work

• Using a computer

• Watching television

• Driving (daytime and nighttime)

86% of DED cases have excessive tear evaporation due to meibomian gland dysfunction as the root cause

Did you know that tear evaporation triggers a cycle of ocular surface damage, inflammation, and worsening of DED symptoms? If uninterrupted, this cycle can contribute to the loss of ocular surface homeostasis. Ocular surface homeostasis depends on the balance of tear production and evaporation. When tear evaporation exceeds supply, desiccation stress and DED signs and symptoms follow. Treating the underlying source of DED signs and symptoms could help break the cycle and restore ocular surface homeostasis. Without addressing evaporation, the signs and symptoms of DED may chronically persist.

With ~38 million Americans affected today, the scope of DED is growing, and its face is changing

In addition to an increase in the overall prevalence of DED, many eye care professionals (ECPs) have observed an increase in younger adult patients (18 to 34 years old) over the past decade, as well as in modern lifestyle factors that further complicate the multifactorial nature of the disease.

Reduced blink rate, increased screen time, and lid laxity can lead to tear evaporation, but the main contributor is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). MGD is characterized by:

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common eye condition that affects the quality of the tears, causing eye dryness, inflammation, and discomfort. While there are several treatments available for MGD, the Lumenis OptiLight is a cutting-edge technology that offers a safe and effective treatment for this condition.

What Is the OptiLight by Lumenis & How Can It Manage Your Dry Eye?

The Lumenis OptiLight is a device that uses intense pulsed light (IPL) to treat MGD. The procedure involves applying a series of short pulses of light to the skin around the eyes, which causes the glands to produce more and better-quality oil.

One of the reasons why patients should consider the Lumenis OptiLight for MGD is that it is a non-invasive and painless procedure. Unlike other treatments for MGD which can be uncomfortable or even painful, the Lumenis OptiLight treatment is gentle and does not require any anesthesia. Patients can expect to feel a mild warmth or tingling sensation during the procedure, but this is generally well-tolerated and does not cause any significant discomfort.

Another benefit of the Lumenis OptiLight is that it has been shown to be highly effective in treating MGD. Studies have demonstrated that IPL treatment can significantly improve the signs and symptoms of MGD, including meibum quality, tear film breakup time, and ocular surface staining. In fact, many patients report immediate relief from dryness, burning, and discomfort after just one session.

The Lumenis OptiLight is also a safe and low-risk treatment for MGD. Because it is a non-invasive procedure, there is no risk of infection, and the risk of complications is minimal. The device is also FDA-approved for the treatment of MGD, which provides an extra layer of assurance for patients.

What to Expect

Before Your Treatment
Before your IPL treatment, you should avoid undergoing any skin-related treatments such as using Retinol. You will also want to discontinue using certain antibiotics and St. Johns Wort supplements as well if it is applicable to you. Ask your eye doctor for more information about what supplements and medication to avoid before your treatment.

It is recommended that you avoid sun exposure and tanning beds before your appointment. Also, you should ensure that you have waited a few weeks after any botox or cosmetic treatments with filler before attending your OptiLight appointment.

When you arrive for IPL treatment, you will first have to fill out a survey to determine skin type. Next, the treatment area will be cleansed if you are wearing makeup — it is not recommended to wear makeup, skin products, moisturizers, or sunscreen when arriving at your appointment.

During Your Treatment
This treatment is fast and simple. After cleaning the face, an eye shield is put in place and a coupling gel is applied to the treatment area which allows proper light transmission to the skin.

As light is applied to the skin, you may experience a warm sensation. The treatment is gentle with minimum discomfort. The treatment itself will only take 10–15 minutes.

On a case-by-case basis, it may be necessary to follow an OptiLight treatment with meibomian gland expression. You will be carefully advised about your options for your personalized treatment plan.

After Your Treatment
After the conclusion of your appointment, you may notice the treatment area appears red for a few hours — this is normal, and lasting side effects are rare. A course of treatment typically includes 4 sessions spaced 2–4 weeks apart — if this doesn’t work for you, your doctor will recommend a different treatment schedule. Once you have completed all 4 treatment sessions, you will have the option to attend recommended maintenance treatments every 6–24 months.

OptiLight treatment sessions typically take 10-15 minutes to perform. The procedure is non-invasive and allows you to return to your daily life without any feelings of discomfort or obtrusive side effects.

If you suffer from MGD, the Lumenis OptiLight is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment option that you should consider. It can help to improve the quality of your tears, reduce eye dryness and discomfort, and enhance your overall eye health and comfort. Talk to your eye doctor today to learn more about this cutting-edge technology and whether it is right for you.