Are you experiencing persistent eye discomfort, redness, or a gritty sensation? You might suffer from ocular rosacea or chronic dry eye syndrome, conditions that can significantly impact your daily life. At Michigan Oculofacial Specialists, we understand the challenges these conditions present. We offer Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy in Detroit, a non-invasive treatment designed to offer relief and comfort to your eyes.
What Is Intense Pulsed Light Therapy?
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is an in-office technology that uses thermal energy to treat inflammation around the eyes. This allows the oil-producing meibomian glands to produce more eye lubrication, reducing the effects of dry eye.
In addition, this therapy targets ocular rosacea and spider veins, which can cause inflammation in the tissues around the eyes.
How We Use IPL Therapy for Dry Eyes
Michigan Oculofacial Specialists offers the Lumenis OptiLight IPL treatment to address dry eye symptoms caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. This non-invasive procedure is the first and only FDA-approved Intense Pulsed Light therapy for dry eye syndrome.
The benefits of this treatment for dry eyes include:
- An overall increased relief from dry eye symptoms
- A reduction in the amount of Demodex mites and bacteria living around the eyes
- Elimination of blood vessels that contribute to inflammation
To explore how our advanced functional procedures can further enhance your health and comfort, visit our dedicated page for detailed information.
Medical Conditions Treated with IPL
IPL therapy was initially developed to treat skin conditions like rosacea. Patients found it helped even out their skin and improved their dry eyes.
This breakthrough helped determine that some forms of dry eye are not caused by disease but instead occur due to skin conditions, aging, genetics, pregnancy, and/or sun exposure. Broken blood vessels around the eyes can irritate and sometimes lead to ocular conditions.
Intense Pulsed Light therapy improves dry eye management and gives skin a smoother, more youthful, and glowing appearance.
Experts and practitioners now believe IPL therapy can result in the following:
- Improved meibomian gland functionality
- Elimination of blood vessels that contribute to inflammation
- Diminishing of pigmentation, sun spots, broken capillaries, and discoloration
- Diminishing the appearance of inflammatory lesions
- Reduction of the patient’s dependency on eye drops
Am I a Good Candidate for OptiLight by Lumenis?
How do you know if Intense Pulsed Light therapy is right for you? During an eye exam, your doctor can determine whether or not it is the right option for you. In general, OptiLight isn’t recommended for patients who:
- Are taking certain medications, like Accutane
- Have active acne
- Suffer from certain skin disorders
- Are susceptible to keloid scarring
- Have severe scarring
- Have been severely sunburned recently
Treatment Process & Safety
Preparing for Your Appointment
To prepare for your appointment, you should avoid:
- Using skin-brightening agents or serums for the week before your appointment
- Using tanning beds one month before your appointment
- Getting Botox for at least three months before your appointment
- Taking oral isotretinoin, tetracycline, or doxycycline for three months before your appointment
The IPL Treatment
Our provider will apply a cool gel to the treatment area during your treatment and cover your eyes with shields to protect them. As light is applied to the skin, you may experience a warm feeling or a tapping sensation, but you shouldn’t feel any pain.
Treatments are performed by Carine Meldrum, PA-C, under the supervision of our oculofacial surgeons. Each session typically lasts 10-15 minutes, with most patients experiencing a mild flicking sensation. A series of 3-4 treatments spaced 3-4 weeks apart is usually recommended, with maintenance sessions suggested as needed for long-lasting results.
Outcomes & Results
Most patients report noticeable relief from dry eye symptoms after completing a series of IPL sessions. The treatment helps restore function in the meibomian glands, improving the natural tear film and reducing inflammation caused by ocular rosacea or dilated vessels.
Many also experience fewer flare-ups, less irritation, and reduced dependence on artificial tears. As a bonus, IPL often decreases Demodex mites and surface bacteria around the eyelid margins. Results tend to build over a few sessions, with maintenance treatments helping preserve long-term comfort.
Post-Procedure Care
While side effects are uncommon, your eyes may feel slightly drier or grittier for the day following your procedure. If you do experience dry eyes, you can use preservative-free artificial tears. Your skin will be sensitive after treatment, so we recommend avoiding sun exposure and wearing sunscreen.
IPL Therapy Cost in Detroit
The cost of IPL therapy can vary depending on the treatment area and the number of sessions required. At Michigan Oculofacial Specialists, we offer competitive pricing and will provide a detailed cost breakdown during your consultation.
Why Choose Michigan Oculofacial Specialists
At Michigan Oculofacial Specialists, your IPL treatment is delivered by Carine Meldrum, PA-C, our highly skilled and dedicated provider specializing in IPL therapy. Carine Meldrum, PA-C, is extensively trained in oculofacial procedures and utilizes advanced IPL technology for precise and safe treatment delivery.
Our practice is led by a team of renowned oculofacial surgeons, Lawrence Handler, MD and Zachary Pearce, DO. They provide expert oversight and guidance and uphold the highest standards of care across all services. We are committed to a patient-centered approach and offer customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
FAQs About IPL for Functional Use
Contact Us to Learn More
For more information on Intense Pulsed Light therapy in Troy, contact Michigan Oculofacial Specialists. Dr. Handler and Dr. Pearce will assess your eye health and appearance and then provide a treatment plan. Schedule your informative consultation today to get started.