IPL (Intense Pulse Light) is an effective dry eye treatment which uses a flash lamp that pulsates a high intensity light at selected wavelengths on the treated skin area around the eyelids. It is a technology that has been used in dermatology for a few decades. In 2002, Dr Rolando Toyo discovered the benefit of IPL in treating dry eyes whilst treating his patients who suffers from rosacea. Subsequently, Toyo had developed the protocol of treating dry eyes with IPL.
For many patients, dry eye symptoms persist despite using lubricating drops and basic treatments.
IPL is designed to go beyond symptom relief — targeting the underlying inflammation and gland dysfunction that contribute to ongoing dryness and irritation.
At A Plus Optometry, IPL is used as part of a structured dry eye management plan, particularly for patients with moderate to severe or treatment-resistant dry eye.
If you suffer dry eyes from Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), you might want to consider IPL as an effective treatment.
MGD is one of the main causes of dry eyes. It is caused by the blockage of the meibomian glands inside the eyelids. The function of meibomian glands is to produce a smooth layer of oil on the surface of your tears to prevent quick evaporation. However, with the oil glands being blocked, it results in unstable tears and quick evaporation, hence dry eyes. The problem with MGD is that it is not reversible. Once the glands become atrophic (death of the glands) there is no way for the oil glands to grow back and restore to its 100% function.
IPL is found to help stimulate the production of the oils in the meibomian glands, which will produce a much more stable tear film. This will ultimately result in an improvement of dry eye symptoms and prevent further atrophy of the meibomian glands.
Generally, four sessions are usually required.
Occasionally, a fifth session is required depending on the severity of your dry eyes.
For most effective treatment outcomes, we recommend the following treatment plan.
According to recent scientific studies, 86% of patient reported that they noticed an improvement in their dry eye symptoms after the third session of IPL. Usually after the fourth treatment, you will get dry eye reliefs for a minimum of six months, up to 29 months.
Although there are occasions where you may need to repeat treatments after 6-12 months depending on the severity of your MGD.
If your symptoms sound familiar, a personalised assessment
can help determine whether IPL is suitable for your eyes.
The most common form of dry eye is evaporative dry eye, often caused by dysfunction of the meibomian glands.
These glands produce the oily layer of your tears — essential for preventing evaporation.
IPL works by:
By addressing these underlying mechanisms, IPL can provide longer-lasting improvement compared to traditional treatments alone.
IPL may be recommended if you:
It is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic or persistent dry eye.
IPL treatment is performed in-clinic and is generally quick and comfortable.
During your appointment:
A course of treatment usually involves multiple sessions, spaced several weeks apart, to achieve optimal results.
Unfortunately, like all procedures, there are some contraindications.
Below is a list of the most common contraindications:
IPL is most effective when combined with a broader dry eye management strategy.
At A Plus Optometry, this may include:
Learn more about our overall approach to Dry Eye Treatment.
Many patients experience:
Results typically improve progressively over a series of treatments.
We also provide care at both locations:
If you’ve been struggling with ongoing dry eye symptoms, IPL may provide a more effective, long-term solution.
Book a consultation at A Plus Optometry to find out if IPL treatment is right for you and
take the first step towards clearer, more comfortable vision.
