What is IPL laser for dry eye?
Intense pulsed light laser (IPL) treats and relieves the symptoms of certain eye conditions, such as dry eye and blepharitis.
It consists of applying laser to the eyelids to stimulate the functioning of the glands found in this area (Meibomian glands), whose dysfunction is linked to dry eye and blepharitis. In this sense, the laser acts directly on the cause of the pathology.
IPL laser treatment:
- Reduces inflammation of the eye surface
- Improves tear film quality
- Stabilises the conjunctival flora (as it has an antimicrobial and antiparasitic effect)
In which cases is it used?
Pulsed light is used to treat different ophthalmological pathologies, such as:
- Dry eye
- A type of eyelid inflammation that can be due to a variety of causes, called blepharitis
The IPL laser can also be used for cosmetic purposes to treat certain blemishes, veins and redness, as well as skin appearance.
Before IPL laser treatment
Before applying the IPL laser, a complete eye exam and, if need be, tests to confirm the diagnosis must be performed.
Moreover, IPL laser is sometimes a complementary treatment, as some patients also require other therapies to treat their conditions.
It is necessary to avoid sunlight during the treatment and for 7 days after laser application. Four sessions are usually performed every two weeks.
During treatment
The IPL laser treatment is carried out in a consultation room. First, cold gel is applied, as well as eye shields.
After preparing the patient, the laser is applied using high-intensity light pulses, which treat the area without damaging nearby structures. In this sense, the equipment features different wavelengths, depending on the filter the ophthalmologist uses to treat the pathology that affects the patient.
IPL laser treatment takes about 10-15 minutes and is painless. However, the patient may notice flashes of light from the equipment, as well as a certain feeling of heat.
After treatment
At the end of treatment, patients can resume their daily activities. You are also advised to:
- Avoid exposure to the sun for 7 days after treatment
- Wear sunglasses outdoors, even during the 7 days following treatment
- Wash the area with pH-neutral soaps, without rubbing the eye and without using hot water
- Follow the treatment and other advice from the ophthalmologist
Associated pathologies
Experts performing this treatment
FAQs
In situations where dry eye symptoms occur, such as contact with chlorine in swimming pools, exposure to the sun or wind, air conditioning and eye strain (reading, driving, etc.), eye drop use should be increased. If symptoms persist, however, patients should see an ophthalmologist to assess the possibility of using other treatments.
It is the result of tear secretion and eyelid disorders that can cause redness, itching, burning, the sensation of a foreign body in the eye and eyestrain. Proper lubrication of the eye is achieved with a correct balance of good-quality tear production and the normal functioning of the eyelids. When this balance is broken or altered by external factors, tear production decreases, and there is a propensity for dry eye to develop.
Normal cellular aging in humans leads to reduced tear production. In fact, it is estimated that between the ages of 10 and 40, tear production is reduced by 50%. In addition, other common causes of dry eye are eye infections (conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, etc.), external or environmental factors (sun, wind, chlorine, contact lenses, etc.) and certain medication. Cosmetics and cleansing creams can also cause irritation and disrupt tear production.
IMO Institute of Ocular Microsurgery
Josep María Lladó, 3
08035 Barcelona
Phone: (+34) 934 000 700
E-mail: international@imo.es
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By car
GPS navigator coordinates:
41º 24’ 38” N – 02º 07’ 29” E
Exit 7 of the Ronda de Dalt (mountain side). The clinic has a car park with more than 200 parking spaces.
By bus
Autobus H2: Rotonda de Bellesguard, parada 1540
Autobus 196: Josep Maria Lladó-Bellesguard, parada 3191
Autobuses H2, 123, 196: Ronda de Dalt – Bellesguard, parada 0071
How to arrive at IMO from:
IMO Madrid
C/ Valle de Pinares Llanos, 3
28035 Madrid
Phone: (+34) 910 783 783
See map in Google Maps
Public transport
Metro Lacoma (líne 7)
Autobuses:
- Lines 49 & 64, stop “Senda del Infante”
- Line N21, stop “Metro Lacoma”
Timetables
Patient care:
Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
IMO Andorra
Av. de les Nacions Unides, 17
AD700 Escaldes-Engordany, Andorra
Phone: (+376) 688 55 44
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IMO Manresa
C/ Carrasco i Formiguera, 33 (Baixos)
08242 – Manresa
Tel: (+34) 938 749 160
See map in Google Maps
Public transport
FGC. Line R5 & R50 direction Manresa. Station/Stop: Baixador de Manresa
Timetables
Monday to Friday, 08:30 A.M – 13:30 PM / 15:00 PM – 20:00 PM