Dry eye diseases can now be treated with light masks that apply short bursts of concentrated light and then last for 10-15 minutes.

In the treatment of dry eye diseases affecting many people in Turkey as well as in the world, a new method has come into play other than classical methods such as artificial tears. Ophthalmologist Op. Dr. Umut Altuner stated that with this new method IPL (intens pulse light) treatment, the heat and antioxidant effect of light is utilized. For 15 minutes, a light mask is applied to the eye and the eye’s own tear production system is enabled to work more properly, Altuner said: “Some eye, lid and immunological diseases disrupt the structure of tears and cause dry eye disease. In addition, closed office environments and looking at the screen for a long time increase the evaporation of tears and contribute to the deterioration of tears. Dry eye disease can manifest itself with many disturbing complaints such as burning, stinging, light sensitivity, feeling of fatigue, and discomfort when using vehicles with screens.”

Tear Production Improves
Stating that treatment options may vary according to the severity and cause of the disease, Op. Dr. Altuner said about the new treatment: “IPL and mask treatment stands out as a new treatment option used in the treatment of chronic blepharitis patients and dry eye patients caused by it. In this treatment, the heat effect and antioxidant effect of light are utilized. With the heat effect, the channels of the sebaceous glands are opened and their fluidity is increased, while the oily layer, the most important layer of the tear, is reconstituted. In this way, the eye’s own Tear Production system works more smoothly. Short-term concentrated light pulses are applied to the eye contour and lids at 5 consecutive points. Meanwhile, the eye is protected with special glasses. Afterwards, the treatment is continued with light masks lasting 10-15 minutes.”

July 2023