Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
IPL treats Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), especially when associated with Ocular Rosacea. The Meibomian glands exist in vertical columns throughout the upper and lower eyelids, and generate the lipid/oily layer of our tears that prevent tear evaporation. MGD is a common pathological state in which these glands become clogged and stop secreting lipids naturally. IPL directly liquifies obstructions and hardened lipids trapped within each Meibomian gland in order to restore lipid secretion and decrease eyelid margin redness and inflammation. During the procedure, both eyes are closed and shields are placed over them to protect against light pulse radiation. Next, a thin layer of cooling gel is applied to the treatment area and a small hand-held device is used to administer targeted light pulses across both upper and lower eyelids. After the IPL treatment is complete, Meibomian glands along the eyelids are gently expressed in-office by the doctor in order to restore normal oil flow back onto the tear film and ocular surface.