LOW LEVEL LIGHT THERAPY (LLLT)
At our dry eye specialist clinic we are able to offer advanced therapy for chronic Dry eye Disease, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and Blepharitis using EyeLight technology.
Dry eye is now classed as a disease and affects one in three people in the UK. It is a very common condition seen here in practice and many of our patients are frustrated with little relief from various treatments they have tried previously to relieve their symptoms.
Symptoms can vary from mild irritation to blurred vision which affects ability to function day to day whilst working. Advanced cases may lead to chronic pain, affecting quality of life.
We are proud to be able to provide an advanced treatment which is clinically proven to reduce symptoms of dry eye disease and improve function of both tear producing lacrimal gland and oil producing meibomian glands.
Recognising the symptoms
- Dry, gritty eyes
- Red eyes
- Painful eyes
- Fluctuating vision
- Red, inflamed eyelids
- Excessive tearing
- Crusted Eyelids/Eyelashes
Understanding the Cause
Meibomian gland dysfunction is the leading cause of evaporative dry eye and directly impacts the lipid (oily) layer of your tears. The meibomian glands, located along the upper and lower eyelids, are responsible for producing these vital oils that create a protective barrier across the eye’s surface, preventing your tears from evaporating too quickly.
When these glands become blocked, inflamed, or stop functioning properly, the quality and flow of oil are reduced – leaving your tears unstable and your eyes exposed. This imbalance causes your tears to evaporate up to sixteen times faster than normal, often leading to symptoms such as burning, irritation, fluctuating vision, or a gritty sensation.
Over time, untreated MGD can cause long-term inflammation and permanent gland damage, which is why early and effective treatment is so important.
How does LLLT work
The eyes and surrounding skin are exposed to a high volume of low intensity LED light. The energy stimulates the body’s cells in an atraumatic way, helping to repair damaged or compromised cells while also enhancing the function of healthy cells.
Different colours have different wavelengths of light which have different benefits for treatment.
Red Light
This uses a well recognised process in healthcare called Photobiomodulation.
Red light penetrates deep into the meibomian glands. The light is absorbed by cells in the eyelid and stimulates energy production. This then activates an anti inflammatory effect breaking the vicious MGD inflammatory cycle. It also stimulates repair and regeneration of the cells and enhances blood flow.
The energy from the light is also converted to heat which softens gland and allows meibum oil to be expressed out the gland easily.
This makes this a recommended treatment for MGD and dry eye.
Blue Light
Blue light acts more on the surface of the eyelid and doesn’t penetrate as deeply. Light is absorbed by the epidermis layer of the skin. The oxygen supply of the cells is reduced resulting in anti-bacterial and anti parasitic effects. This help to manage the microbiome of the eyelid by killing bacteria and demodex mites.
This makes this a recommended treatment for anterior Blepharitis and Dry eye.
Benefits of LLLT
LLLT is a quick, painless and relaxed treatment.
Treatment takes 15 minutes making is quick to fit into your schedule or to choose as an add on to other dry eye services such as IPL or ZEST
Preparation
Set up includes sitting or lying comfortably on treatment bed. Skin is cleansed ready for treatments
A mask is put on the face loosely over closed eyes.
Lights on
Either red or blue lights are switched on in the mask for 12-15 minutes depending on
severity of symptoms.
During this time you can relax with eyes closed.
During red light therapy a warming sensation will be experienced, similar feeling to that when sunshine hits the skin.
During blue light therapy cool bright lights will be experienced.
Immediate Results
Resume normal activities immediately.
Most patients will notice improvement in symptoms within days. LLLT can be offered as a single treatment but it is recommended as a plan and is available to purchase as block of 3.
It is very effective alongside IPL treatment and is clinically recommended for best results.
Dry eye consultation is essential prior to LLLT to assess suitability
Pricing for Low Level Light Therapy Treatment
Transparent pricing for your peace of mind
Single Session of LLLT red or blue
Single Session of LLLT red and blue
Packages are available if purchasing a plan of treatments or combining with IPL therapy.
*Pricing is indicative and will be confirmed during your consultation.