Navigating Eyecare by Thinking Outside the Eye

What is IPL?

Intense Pulsed Light (abbreviated IPL) describes the use of intense pulses of non-coherent light distributed over a range of wavelengths; from 400nm to 1200nm. The technology uses specific wavelength ranges to target various chromophores in the skin. Traditionally, this enables effective treatment of a broad spectrum of conditions, including vascular (read: red skin) and pigmented lesions, skin photoaging treatments and hair removal.

But what is IPL for the eye?

Skin and eyelid inflammation affects millions of Americans every year. Over 85% of skin and eyelid inflammation patients also suffer from inflammatory ocular conditions such as Dry Eye. Inflammatory skin diseases are characterized by the formation of vascular abnormalities, which release inflammatory agents. When occurring near the eyes, these mediators propagate via the orbital vasculature to the eyelids, often resulting in inflammation of the eyelids that may trigger ocular complications. Basically: inflamed blood vessels bring this irritation to the eye.

IPL is an excellent technology for treating vascular skin lesions. IPL is selectively absorbed in the hemoglobin of abnormal blood vessels and destroys them by thrombosis. A major source of inflammation threatening the eyelids is then removed. We now know this light therapy, that has been around in dermatology for decades, cuts off the inflammation pathway, stopping dry eye from its source!

Our Unique Treatment Plan

At Eyecare on the Square, we offer state of the art technology to help treat and manage these progressive diseases. We offer our patients the “Calm and Clear” package, which combines the use of one LipiFlow, four rounds of IPL, nutraceuticals, eyelid cleansers, and a take-home heat mask. This package is strategically formulated to knock out the root cause of dry eye and set you up for success!

References

1. Viso E, Millán AC, and Rodríguez-Ares MT, Rosacea-associated meibomian gland dysfunction – an epidemiological perspective, Eur Ophthalmol Rev, 2014; 8(1):13-16.

2. Weinkle AP, Doktor V, Emer J., Update on the Management of Rosacea, Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol, 2015; 8:159-77.