Intense Pulse Light (IPL): For Treating Dry Eye in Las Vegas
One key often-overlooked source of dry, uncomfortable eyes lies behind the eyelashes in potential tear-film trouble is the meibomian glands. In Las Vegas, where the air is particularly dry, these glands frequently dry up and fail to secrete oils necessary for proper tear function. The tear normally has three layers: a mucous layer, a watery layer, and an oily surface lipid layer that prevents evaporation and stabilizes the tears. When the oil glands dry up, the oily lipid layer is typically reduced, resulting in more rapid evaporation of the tear complex film. Once dry, the glands’ secretions become trapped inside the glands, inflammation and bacteria can follow, worsening the problem.
For the past few years, Kent L. Wellish, M.D. of Wellish Vision Institute have been refining a new approach to treating this problem, using intense pulsed light, or IPL, originally developed for use in dermatology.
IPL technology uses brief, powerful bursts of light at specific wavelengths to help “unclog” the oil glands and allow flow for tears once again. This can often have a beneficial effect on meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) patients.
If you suffer from dry eye, ask us about IPL technology to learn more.
