What is dry eye?
Dry eye is a condition that causes abnormal changes in the tear film. These changes may cause your eyes to feel gritty or irritated and can sometimes make your vision blurry between blinks. Dry eye is a chronic (long term) condition. This means when you have it, it can keep coming back.
What Is OptiLight and how can it relive dry eye symptoms?
The first and only FDA approved Medical Device in the UK to successfully relief symptoms of dry eyes through light therapy. OptiLIGHT is an Innovative light therapy for brighter results that targets multiple key contributors of dry eyes for lasting results. It is a treatment that helps reduce your dependency on eye drops, and is developed with safety in mind, for peace of mind. OptiLIGHT is a light-based treatment that uses precise, intense broad-spectrum light to address signs of dry eye disease due to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). MGD is the most common cause of dry eye disease, accounting for about 86% of cases. The treatment addresses inflammation, which is one of the key underlying factors in MGD. OptiLIGHT was specifically developed to reach the delicate contours of the treated area safely, effectively, and gently using the OPT™ technology. It is intended for use in patients who are at least 22 years old, together with other available treatments, such as Meibomian gland expression, artificial tear lubricants such as Hycosan drops, and warm compresses (Eye Dr eye bag).
What to expect from OptiLight treatment
Patients will be advised to schedule 4 sessions, spaced 2-4 weeks apart, each session usually takes 30-45 minutes, this appointment also includes meibomian gland expression. OptiLIGHT is a non-invasive treatment applied on the upper and lower closed eyelids. During treatment, your practitioner will wipe over the treatment area with an anti-microbial lid cleansing spray (Purifeyes), cover your eyes with shields and apply a thick layer of coupling gel on the treatment area. You may experience a warm sensation as light is applied to the skin. The treatment is gentle with minimal discomfort. Once the treatment has been completed the patient can return to their daily activities and apply makeup straight away in most cases. Patients usually report an improvement after the 2nd or 3rd session.
What is meibomian Gland expression?
Meibomian gland expression is a specialised treatment designed to restore the function of the meibomian glands located in the eyelids. When these glands become blocked, it can lead to dry, irritated eyes and contribute to conditions like Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).
What to expect from meibomian Gland expression
Meibomian gland expression is conducted alongside IPL therapy and has to be performed up to a maximum of 45 minutes after completing the OptiLIGHT treatment. OptiLIGHT softens the meibum and opens the gland openings to enable expression. The practitioner gently applies pressure to the eyelids using specialized tools, such as titanium forceps, to express the blocked oil from the glands. This process helps clear obstructions and allows healthy oils to flow freely. If suitable, anaesthetic drops are offered to the patient to help reduce any discomfort the treatment may cause. After completing the expression, lubricating drops may be applied to enhance comfort. Patients typically notice improved eye comfort and clarity within a few days following the procedure.
ZEISS ATLAS 500
The ZEISS ATLAS 500 is a state-of-the-art, multi-modality diagnostic workstation for the anterior segment of the eye. It combines high-resolution corneal topography with advanced ocular surface analysis.
At DH Thomas, we use the Atlas 500 to support Dry Eye Assessment. Before starting the OptiLight treatment, you will have an Atlas scan, which includes dedicated tools for dry eye management, such as meibography (visualising Meibomian glands), non-invasive tear film break-up time (NIBUT) assessment, and tear meniscus height measurement. After all OptiLight treatments have been completed, patients will have another Atlas scan, allowing us to compare scans taken before and after treatment.
IS EVERYONE SUITABLE FOR OPTLIGHT?
Treatment with OptiLIGHT is contraindicated for patients with the following conditions in the treatment area:
Ocular surgery or eyelid surgery or Neuro-paralysis within 6 months prior to the first treatment. Uncontrolled eye disorders affecting the ocular surface.
Pre-cancerous lesions, skin cancer or pigmented lesions in the planned treatment area
Uncontrolled infections or uncontrolled immunosuppressive diseases.
Recent Ocular infections.
Prior history of cold sores or rashes in the perioral area, including: HSV1 u0026amp; 2, Systemic Lupus erythematosus and porphyria.
Use of photosensitive medication and/or herbs that may cause sensitivity within 3 months prior to the first IPL session.
Recent radiation therapy to the head or neck or planned radiation therapy.
Recent treatment with a chemotherapeutic agent or planned chemotherapy.
History of migraines, seizures or epilepsy.
IPL is intended for use in patients who are at least 22 years old.
You should always consult with your physician about these risks and whether treatment with OptiLIGHT is suitable for you.
If the patient wishes to discuss the potential risks/side effects associated with OptiLiGHT, please ask them to contact the IPL Clinic by email at [email protected] or telephone to speak to Lucy or Charlotte.
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