OptiLight is a non-invasive treatment that uses light therapy to stimulate the glands in your eyes that produce tears. It's a safe, effective, and painless way to alleviate the symptoms of dry eyes. And, as an added bonus, the treatment only takes about 15 minutes.

Understanding Dry Eyes: Causes and Symptoms

Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is caused by a lack of adequate tears. Your eyes need a constant layer of tears - made up of water, fatty oils, and mucus - to maintain the health of the front surface of the eyes and to provide clear vision. Dry eyes can occur when this layer breaks down.

The symptoms of dry eyes can be quite frustrating. They include a stinging, burning or scratchy sensation in your eyes; sensitivity to light; red eyes; a feeling of having something in your eyes; difficulty wearing contact lenses; and, in severe cases, blurred vision or eye damage.

How OptiLight Dry Eye Treatment Works

This treatment uses a specific wavelength of light to stimulate the meibomian glands in your eyes - these are the tiny oil glands which line the margin of the eyelids.

The OptiLight dry eye treatment works by emitting pulses of light into the eyelids, which in turn heats up and liquefies the hardened oil in the meibomian glands. Once the oil is liquefied, it's easier for it to flow out and coat the surface of the eye, alleviating the symptoms of dry eyes.

What to Expect Before Your OptiLight Treatment

Before undergoing the OptiLight treatment, a consultation with an eye doctor comes first. Your eye doctor will discuss your symptoms, medical history, and expectations. This consultation is crucial in determining whether OptiLight is the right treatment for you.

On the day of the treatment, you may be advised to come in with clean eyes, no makeup or contact lenses. It's also recommended to wear comfortable clothes as you'll be sitting in a chair during the procedure.

What to Expect During the OptiLight Procedure

The OptiLight procedure is quick and painless. You are seated in a comfortable chair and the OptiLight device is placed over your eyes. The device emits a soft, warm light, which can feel soothing.

The procedure lasts about 15 minutes, during which you may feel a slight warming sensation in your eyes. It is not uncomfortable, and you may actually find it quite relaxing. Once the treatment is completed, you are able to open your eyes and likely not experience any immediate discomfort or side effects.

What to Expect After OptiLight Treatment

After the OptiLight treatment, you are advised to rest your eyes for a bit. You are also given artificial tears to help soothe your eyes and will be instructed to use them for a few days.

Over the next few days, you will feel a noticeable improvement in your dry eye symptoms. You will no longer experienced the stinging and burning sensation, and your eyes will feel much more comfortable. 

Is OptiLight the Right Solution for You?

If you're suffering from dry eyes, consider OptiLight treatment. It's a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment that can provide relief from the frustrating symptoms of dry eyes. Consult with your eye doctor to see if OptiLight is the right solution for you.

If you are interested in learning more about how OptiLight can help with your dry eye symptoms, visit Clarity Vision at our office in Smithfield, North Carolina. Please call (919) 737-7200 to schedule an appointment today.