TREATING THE ROOT CAUSE OF DRY EYE

The root cause of the dry eye, (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) lies in a poor-quality tear film as well as an insufficiency of tears. In most cases, it results from the meibomian glands getting blocked, inflamed and not able to secrete enough of the outer oily lipid film that normally seals the inner tear layers in and stops them from evaporating into the air.

Dry eye sufferers are usually prescribed lubricating eye drops, hot compresses and eyelid wipes that can help if administered correctly and consistently. However, these provide a symptomatic relief and not a long-term solution.

Medication can also be prescribed to manage dry eye disease. The primary issue with prescribing medication is that some medications can cause other side effects that may outweigh their benefits  

HOW IPL IMPROVES TEAR QUALITY

IPL treats the primary cause of the dry eye by targeting meibomian glands to improve their function, normalise tear quality and relieve dry eye symptoms. The non-invasive treatment is administered with a hand-held device that emits brief pulses of broad light (the UV and blue light are blocked with a filter) to skin areas around the eyes thus photo-rejuvenating the meibomian glands, causing them to open up and express the protective oil more readily.

IPL has been shown to improve tear quality, minimise debilitating dry eye symptoms and slow the progression of chronic dry eye. In addition, it can help to improve patient outcomes of vision correction procedures such as laser and cataract eye surgeries.

WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM THIS DRY EYE TREATMENT?

IPL treatment is used as an adjunct therapy for dry eye disease, particularly for patients suffering from:

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

• Ocular rosacea

• Chronic blepharitis

Please note: IPL therapy is not a cure for dry eye disease. The treatment is intended to improve symptoms and enhance the quality of life in patients with chronic dry eye.

Many patients can benefit from the IPL treatment except those with active infections, skin tumours, moles or tattoos around the eyes, history of keloids, immune system or coagulation disorders, when using anticoagulants and in pregnancy. Caution is advised for patients with a history of herpes simplex near the treatment area. The filter used in Thermaeye Plus is suitable for treating MGD in all skin types up to Fitzpatrick Grade VI skin type.

Patients need to be fully assessed by an optometrist within Davis Optometrists (post a Dry Eye Assessment) or have been referred by an ophthalmologist specialising in dry eye prior to undertaking the treatment.

POTENTIAL RISKS AND COMPLICATION

As with any medical treatment, there are potential risks and side effects associated with IPL therapy. These may include but are not limited to:

• Temporary redness, swelling, or irritation in the treatment area

• Mild discomfort or a sensation of heat during the procedure, potentially a smell of burnt hair

• Skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation in rare cases

• Temporary blurring of vision

• Bruising, blistering, or scabbing of the skin around the eyes

• Worsening of dry eye symptoms (rare)

PRECAUTIONS BEFORE AND AFTER THE PROCEDURE

Before Treatment:

• You will be required to remove any makeup, lotions, or sunscreen from the treatment area. For those with long hair, hair will need to be tied back.

• Inform your optometrist of any medications you are taking, particularly those that may cause sensitivity to light or affect skin healing.

• Grade skin type as per Fitzpatrick Grading VI scale.

After Treatment:

• Apply cooling compresses to the treated area if necessary.

• Avoid direct sunlight and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen for several days after treatment.

• Refrain from using harsh skincare products for at least 48 hours post-procedure.

HOW MANY TREATMENT SESSIONS ARE REQUIRED?

The procedure takes minutes and for optimal results studies suggest 3 sessions separated by 2 weeks. During the course of the treatment, patients can continue managing their symptoms with eye drops, although they may notice an improvement as early as a few hours after the first treatment session. A top-up annual treatment is usually recommended. Cost for the 3 sessions is £900 which includes a ZEST treatment, suncream, Zocular ZocuShield Eye Gel and Heated Eye Wand Pro. 

For more information, or to answer any questions you may have, please contact us and our team will be happy to help.