Dry eye is one of the problems that can occur in almost every age group and affect the quality of life as well as the quality of vision. New treatments against dry eye, which creates an additional difficulty in daily life with its discomfort and negative impact on vision, continue to develop. IPL treatment is one of them. What is IPL treatment, which is often applied together with LipiFlow? How does it provide an advantage against dry eyes? Let’s take a look.
What is IPL Treatment?
IPL treatment, known as “Intense Pulsed Light”, is an intense light treatment that was first used by dermatologists in the 1990s.
The treatment, which is used in skin diseases and whose results are evaluated positively, has also started to be used by ophthalmologists.
How is the Treatment Applied?
In IPL treatment, special protective goggles are first worn on the eyes. Afterwards, strong light waves are used to soften and open the blockages of the meibomian glands around the eyes. Thus, it is ensured that the oil secretion required for tears is made smoothly and premature evaporation of tears is prevented.
What is the Benefit?
- Improving the Function of the Meibomian Glands: IPL treatment stimulates the meibomian glands in the eyelids, increasing the production of oil (meibum). This oil forms the lipid layer of the tear film and reduces evaporation from the surface of the eye.
- Reducing Inflammation: IPL can reduce inflammation around the eyes by constricting blood vessels and reducing the release of inflammatory cytokines.
- Reducing Demodex Mites: IPL treatment can reduce the number of Demodex mites found on the eyelids, which can contribute to dry eye.
As a result, one of the most important causes of dry eye disease, the blockage of the glands at the base of the eyelashes, is eliminated. The treatment may need to be reapplied at intervals of time and to the extent prescribed by your doctor. It is important to consult a specialist doctor for this.
