OptiLight Intense Pulse Light (IPL) Treatment Protocol

IPL Treatment Plan For Dry Eye Disease, Blepharitis, Ocular Rosacea, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

OptiLight Intense Pulse Light (IPL) - A full IPL treatment includes 4 sessions, 3-6 weeks apart. Three to four weeks between sessions is best but if not possible this interval may be extended to up to 6 weeks. After each session, a date for the next session will be set up. No follow-ups are needed between sessions. 

After completion of the full IPL treatment, patients will need a maintenance session, usually 3-6 months after the last IPL treatment. We recommend to schedule an examination 3 months after the last IPL session. At that examination, one of our doctors will determine when to schedule the maintenance session. 

Preparation before an IPL session

Avoiding the sun - the patient should avoid exposure to the sun a few days before any IPL session.

Cleansing - Immediately prior to administration of IPL, the patient's face must be thoroughly cleaned with a gentle facial wash or using a facial wipe to remove natural oils, lotions, moisturizes or sunscreen.

Eye Shields - The patient and all personnel present in the room must wear eye shields. For the patients, disposable eye shields may be used. We often use either: 1) IPL pads with adhesive  or 2) corneal shields which are inserted by the doctor (for treating the eyelids directly).

Coupling/Ultrasound Gel - A thin (1-2mm) layer of clear coupling/ultrasound gel will be applied to the treated area. 

Treatment Area

In general, the area recommended for IPL treatment is from tragus to tragus. This means, laterally from ear to ear including the nose, below the orbital bone. In some patients, part of the lower eyelid may be treated as well. Treating closer to the lower eyelids increases the efficacy for treatment of eyelid inflammation. However, in patients with heighten sensitivity this region may be avoided. In any case, the eyes must be protected with eye shields so as to prevent exposure of the eyes to IPL. 

Benefical: Patients may notice and rave about rejuvenated skin in the area that was treated. 

Treatment Procedure

The tip of the IPL lightguide is a chilled, sapphire crystal. This feature PREVENTS burning or blisters when applying IPL on the skin. The entire procedure shoul take no more than 10 minutes. 

Immediately post-IPL, the doctor often includes manual expression using a clearance device to remove any obstruction. If the glands are excessively obstructed then the doctor may advise adding a thermal expression device in combination with IPL on the sameday (ie Lipiflow, iLux, TearCare, etc).

Post-Treatment

Exposure to Sunlight - Patients should use a high factor (30-50 SPF) sun block and to protect the treated area from exposure to sunlight, for at least 48 hours following treatment. It is important to avoid tanning after treatment sessions to prevent unwanted hyperpigmentation. 

Makeup - Application of makeup immediately after treatment is commonly accepted. However, patient should notify the office and stop wearing makeup, if the treated area scales or cakes. For some patients with sensitive skin, it may be advised against the use of makeup for a few days following treatment. If the skin remains intact immediately after IPL treatment, patients may be instructed to continue using standard make-up and moisturizing routine when relevant. In case of an unexpected skin reaction, patient should immediately stop using any makeup.