Dry eye syndrome is a condition affecting millions of people globally. It is a chronic condition often caused by a lack of tears or poor quality of tears. The root cause is meibomian gland dysfunction or MGD. This results in discomfort, irritation, and even damage to the eye's surface (cornea). 

In recent years, there has been an exciting development in the treatment of dry eye syndrome: intense pulsed light therapy, or IPL. But who is a good candidate for IPL treatment, and what can you expect during the procedure?

Good Candidates for Dry Eye IPL Care

Intense pulsed light therapy for dry eye syndrome is a relatively new treatment, and it is not suitable for everyone. However, it is effective if you have not found relief from traditional options.

To be a good candidate for IPL treatment, experts consider the following:

• Having been diagnosed with moderate to severe dry eye condition.
• You have tried treatments like prescription eye drops, artificial tears, and punctal plugs but have not found relief.
• You have mild to moderate rosacea. This condition can be associated with dry eye syndrome.
• Your preference for a noninvasive treatment rather than invasive surgeries or medications.

What Can You Expect During IPL Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome?

The IPL treatment for dry eye syndrome is a relatively simple procedure performed in your doctor's office. During the treatment, a small handheld device delivers light pulses to the skin around your eyes. These pulses stimulate the production of natural oils in the glands around the eyes, helping improve the quality of the tears and reducing inflammation.

Quick and Painless Treatment

The IPL procedure typically takes less than half an hour to complete. Furthermore, most patients report experiencing little to no discomfort during the treatment. However, a few of them experience a slight tingling sensation during the procedure. It is almost like the feeling of small rubber bands slapping slightly on your skin. However, it is often mild and temporary.

After the Treatment

After the treatment, a little redness and swelling around the eyes are normal. It is temporary and should resolve within a few days. As with many patients, you can return to your normal routine immediately as it requires no downtime.

Multiple IPL Treatments

It is crucial to note that IPL treatment for dry eye syndrome is not a one-time solution. Generally, you will require multiple treatments. These are typically performed over several months to achieve optimal results. To develop a customized treatment plan, your doctor will work with you to formulate one that best suits you.

If you have been having difficulties with chronic dry eye syndrome and have not found a solution in traditional treatments, IPL therapy may be perfect for you. Its noninvasive and relatively painless nature is a big plus. 

The treatment helps improve the quality of your tears and reduce inflammation. To determine whether IPL treatment is right for you, talk to your eye doctor and ask about your options for dry eye care.

For more on dry eye IPL care, visit Loman Eye Care at our Carmel, Indiana office. Call (317) 844-7474 to schedule an appointment today.