We are proud to own the first OptiLight in New Zealand. OptiLight is the first and only IPL, FDA-approved for management of dry eye disease due to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), the leading cause of dry eye disease.
Why Optilight for your dry eye patients?
I am passionate about dry eye- it affects so many of us (myself included) and can have a direct impact on our quality of life. Having managed dry eye patients for years, I have been looking to elevate our treatment options. My months of research stopped with OptiLight with its clinically proven and patented OPT™ (Optimal Pulse Technology) which allows safe, precise delivery of light to the eyelid and cheek area.
How does Optilight work?
We now know that dry eye involves a vicious cycle of inflammation. With OptiLight’s patented Optimal Pulse Technology and hand piece, we can safely deliver targeted, precise and controlled treatment to the delicate contours of each individual patient’s face and eye lid area. Clinical studies show that OptiLight works in a number of ways;
· Reduces the inflammatory cycle by decreasing the level of pro-inflammatory mediators
· Addresses the abnormal blood vessels of the eyelid which promote further inflammation
· Decreases pathogens on the eyelid area which lead to infection and bacterial overload on the eye lids
· Restores functionality to the meibomian (oil) glands within the eye lids
· Increases tear film functionality meaning your tears stay on your eyes longer!
What is the benefit for your patients?
As OptiLight is not just addressing the symptoms of dry eye but treating the root cause of the condition- inflammation, patients can expect whiter, more comfortable eyes with less reliance on eye drops and other maintenance measures.
What can be expected with OptiLight treatment?
· During treatment, your Optometrist will cover your eyes with shields and apply a thin layer of coupling gel on the treatment area.
· During treatment, light is applied on the skin below the eyes- you may experience a warm sensation. The treatment is gentle and most patients report minimal discomfort.
· OptiLight is followed by meibomian gland expression.
· Each appointment with your Optometrist will be for 30 minutes, however, the IPL session itself takes only 10-15 minutes. There is no downtime, you can resume your daily activities immediately.
· You may experience some redness immediately following treatment. This will usually disappear within a few hours. You can return to your daily activities and apply makeup straight away in most cases. You will be advised to stay out of direct sunlight for a few days and to apply sunscreen.
What costs are involved?
If you are new to our practice our Optometrists would need to establish the current status of your eye health and dry eye before commencing any new treatment.
Depending on your situation and how long it has been since your previous eye examination, an initial appointment would be $59 for a dry eye assessment to $174 which would also include a comprehensive eye and vision exam. This is a good place to start if you are bothered by dry eye and want to explore your treatment options.
Once we know OptiLight would be a suitable option, the price of each treatment is $279.
Patients typically report improvement after 2 to 3 treatments. For optimal results, 4 sessions are advised. To ensure long-term results, a maintenance session is recommended every 6-12 months.