Dry Eye Syndrome - Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Dry eye is a chronic, multifactorial condition affecting the tears and surface of the eye. This condition occurs when the quality or quantity of tears is insufficient, or when the tear film is fragile, resulting in insufficient moistening of the eye. Contrary to popular belief, tear deficiency is rarely the cause of dry eye syndrome. Most often, it's a dysfunction of the Meibomius glands, which are responsible for producing the lipid film that prevents tears from evaporating.

Symptoms: discomfort, irritation, redness, itching, tearing, secretions, visual disturbance, sensation of burning, sand or foreign body in the eye, instability of the tear film.

Diagnosis: Dry eye syndromes can be very uncomfortable. Although most of the time they do not lead to serious complications, some severe forms can lead to corneal deterioration and threaten vision. Consult an ophthalmologist, who will check your eye and your vision.

Treatment aims to prevent and heal damage to the surface of the eye caused by dryness, while alleviating the patient's symptoms.

If you suspect dry eye syndrome, make an appointment with one of our specialists.

IPL Treatment for Dry Eye at the Swiss Eye Centre in Lausanne – Dry Eye

The Swiss Eye Centre offers a new treatment for dry eye using intense pulsed light (IPL), an innovative and non-invasive technology designed to provide long-lasting relief from dry eye and improve visual comfort.

Pulsed light therapy targets the underlying cause of inflammation. It uses light pulses applied around the eyes to stimulate the Meibomian glands and reduce chronic inflammation of the eyelids. A session typically lasts between 15 and 20 minutes and does not require anesthesia or time off from daily activities.

This treatment is performed in the office, without surgery or downtime. The sessions are generally well tolerated and lead to a gradual improvement in eye comfort.

 

 

The Benefits of IPL Treatment

  •  reduction in dry eye symptoms,
  • reduction in eye redness and irritation,
  • improved visual stability,
  • relief from burning and tingling sensations,
  • better tolerance of screens and contact lenses,
  • reduced need for frequent use of eye drops and artificial tears,
  • lasting improvement in everyday visual comfort.

 

Contraindications for IPL treatment

 IPL treatment is contraindicated in certain situations:

  • pregnancy and breastfeeding,
  • taking photosensitizing medications,
  • recent sun exposure (within the last 3–5 days),
  • very dark skin
  • certain skin conditions,
  • active infections on the face
  • photosensitive epilepsy.

A specialized ophthalmology consultation will help determine whether IPL treatment is right for you.

 

Risks and Possible Side Effects

 IPL treatment for dry eye is considered safe and well-tolerated. Side effects are generally mild and temporary:

  • skin redness,
  • a sensation of heat,
  • mild skin irritation,
  • temporary sensitivity around the eyes.

In rare cases, temporary changes in skin pigmentation may occur.