IPL & Red Light Therapy—Treating Dry Eye at the Source
Posted by: Invision Optometry in Category Dry Eye Management
If your eyes are constantly burning, blurry, watery, or feel like there’s always something stuck in them, you might be dealing with chronic dry eye. It’s one of the most common conditions we see—and here in San Diego, things like dry weather, screen time, and coastal winds don’t make it any easier.
While artificial tears and warm compresses can bring short-term relief, they don’t always address what’s actually causing the problem, especially if Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) or inflammation is involved.
That’s why we’re excited to offer two breakthrough therapies that treat dry eye at its source: Optimal Power Energy® IPL and Light Modulation® LLLT (aka Red Light Therapy). These light-based treatments are now part of our advanced Dry Eye Recovery Program at Invision Optometry, and they’re helping our patients feel more comfortable for the long haul.
What Is Optimal Power Energy® IPL?
OPE® IPL is a gentle, light-based treatment that targets inflammation—one of the leading causes of evaporative dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). It works by delivering precise pulses of targeted light to the skin around the eyes. This therapy is especially effective at reducing abnormal blood vessels, calming inflammation, and loosening blockages in the oil glands in your eyes. When those glands start functioning properly again, your tear film becomes more stable and your eyes feel more comfortable.
The OPE® IPL treatment itself is quick and easy. After your skin is prepped and protective eye shields are in place, you’ll experience a series of gentle light pulses. Most patients describe it as a warm, flickering sensation, similar to that of a camera flash. The entire session usually takes less than 15 minutes, and there’s no downtime, so you can return to your day right after. Many patients start to feel relief in just a couple of sessions, with full results developing over the course of the treatment plan.
What Is Light Modulation® LLLT (aka Red Light Therapy)?
LM® LLLT, or Low-Level Light Therapy, is a non-invasive, light-based treatment that uses gentle, medical-grade red light to treat dry eye from the inside out. It works by deeply warming the eyelids themselves, targeting the Meibomian glands that produce the essential oils your tears need to stay balanced and effective.
When these glands get clogged or sluggish—as they often do from screen time, aging, or environmental stress—your tears evaporate too quickly, leaving your eyes feeling dry, irritated, and uncomfortable. LM® LLLT gently melts the hardened oil that’s blocking the glands, stimulating healthier flow and restoring a more stable tear film.
The treatment is incredibly comfortable. You’ll lie back with your eyes closed while a mask-like device rests over your face, delivering soothing waves of red light for about 15 minutes. There’s no pain, no pressure—just a warm, calming sensation that many patients find surprisingly relaxing.
Light Modulation® LLLT is an ideal option for San Diego patients whose dry eye symptoms are made worse by dry indoor air, extended screen use, or outdoor exposure to wind and UV. It’s especially effective when combined with IPL as part of a personalized dry eye treatment plan.
Are These Dry Eye Treatments Right for You?
If you’ve tried over-the-counter drops, warm compresses, and other home remedies with little to no lasting relief, these treatments could be a great next step. They are ideal for patients dealing with:
- Evaporative dry eye
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
- Inflammation-related dry eye
- Persistent symptoms that don’t improve with drops
Our doctors can create a personalized treatment plan based on the severity and type of your dry eye symptoms that will give you long-term relief.
Schedule Your Dry Eye Consultation Today
If dry eyes are getting in the way of your daily life, it’s time to take action.
📞 Call Invision Optometry today at 619.222.2020 to schedule your dry eye consultation and find out if Optimal Power Energy® IPL and Light Modulation® LLLT are right for you.
