A NEW WAY TO TREAT DRY EYE DISEASEโEXCLUSIVELY FROM HATTIESBURG EYE CLINIC
Designed by Lumenis, an innovator in laser or light-related medical equipment, OptiLight is the only FDA-approved Intense Pulse Light (IPL) therapy for dry eye disease. This non-invasive, fast and gentle procedure can stop or significantly reduce dry eye symptoms.
MORE THAN AN IRRITATING CONDITION
Chronic dry eye disease afflicts millions of people, with the potential to disrupt even the most routine of daily tasks. People with this condition find their eyes constantly watering, itching, burning or feeling like they have grit or sand in them. They may also notice blurry vision after reading, watching TV, or using a computer.
To understand the condition, itโs good to know how and why our bodies produce tears. This fluid produced by the lacrimal glands is more than waterโit also contains mucous, oil (produced by the meibomian glands), proteins and antibodies. Theseย lubricating tearsย continuously nourish and protect the front surface of the eye.
You also produceย reflex tears, the bodyโs emergency response to a sudden irritation or injury to the eye. When a foreign body, an injury or inadequate lubrication of the eye surface occurs, the body quickly generates and distributes additional tears to help flush out any irritants. Paradoxically, thatโs why a person with dry eyes can experience wateringโthe brain senses a lack of lubricating tears and seeks to remedy the situation.
With some instances of dry eye disease, the lubricating tears donโt contain enough of the oil produced by the meibomian glands, and so the tears may evaporate too quickly. Or, the lacrimal glands fail to produce enough tears to adequately bathe the eye surface. Either possibility can result from aging, disease or medications, hormonal changes or environmental conditions.
OPTILIGHT BY LUMENIS
OptiLight is the latest dry eye treatment offered by Hattiesburg Eye Clinic. The OptiLight device works by generating pulses of light directed at the outer skin below the eyes. The 10-15 minute procedure relieves dry eye symptoms by:
- Increasing tear break-up time to slow evaporation
- Reducing microscopic demodex mites and bacteria, both of which contribute to dry eye
- Decreasing inflammation
- Improving meibomian gland performance
During the session a specialized gel is applied to the treatment area to protect the skin, as well as coverings to shield your eyes. As the light contacts the skin, you may feel a warm or tapping sensation, but itโs otherwise painless.
To further protect your skin, you should avoid the following before undergoing the procedure:
- Skin brightening agents or serums for at least a week before
- Tanning beds, a month before
- Botox injections at least 3 months before
- Oral doses of isotretinoin, tetracycline or doxycycline 3 months before
After the procedure, your skin may be mildly sensitive, so youโll want to avoid excessive sun exposure and wear sunscreen for a time recommended by your doctor. Most people donโt experience any significant side-effects, but occasionally the eyes may feel a little drier and grittier a day or so after treatment. If this happens, preservative-free artificial tears can provide relief.
A patient initially undergoes four OptiLight sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart. Doctors then recommend maintenance treatments every 6-12 months to ensure the best long-term results.
ARE YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR OPTILIGHT?
Although most people can safely undergo OptiLight therapy, the procedure may be inappropriate for people with active acne, severe skin scarring or a susceptibility to keloid scarring, a recent severe sunburn, or if theyโre taking certain medications like Accutane.
Your doctor will review your health and medical history, and advise you on any risks you might face undergoing OptiLight therapy. More than likely, though, youโll be an acceptable candidate for the procedure.
FINDING RELIEF FROM DRY EYE DISEASE
With OptiLight by Lumenis, you donโt have to put up with the watery, itchy discomfort of dry eye disease. OptiLight treatment can help you effectively manage your condition, and improve your daily life.
The team at Hattiesburg Eye Clinic is ready and able to help you alleviate the irritation caused by dry eyes. Contact us today to begin your journey to better relief with OptiLight.
Hattiesburg Eye Clinic: The Most Experienced Team โ The Most Advanced Technology.
Get In Touch With Us:
To learn more about Hattiesburg Eye Clinic and our services please call us atย 601 268 5910ย or toll-free atย 800 624 8254ย orย schedule a consultation.