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Medical technology seems to evolve constantly — so much so that multiple health problems can now be resolved simultaneously with a single treatment option. Most recently, we were surprised to learn that there’s a way to relieve dry eye symptoms while also improving the color and texture of the sensitive skin around the eyes. This treatment is called intense pulsed light therapy (or IPL therapy), and there’s an expert right here in Birmingham whose office has quickly become a leading destination for the treatment. We spoke to the experts at Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center to learn more about this treatment, how it works, and why so many seek Dr. Choi’s expertise.
While IPL therapy has been used for decades in the cosmetic world, it’s relatively new to ophthalmology. It was discovered that when this treatment is used to combat rosacea around the cheeks, it also relieves dry eye symptoms! This is thanks to the precision of the laser and its ability to go after the root of dry eye inflammation.
“IPL addresses probably the most important culprit when it comes to dry eyes: meibomian glands,” explains Dr. Choi. These are oil glands on our eyelids that keep our eyes clean, healthy, and well-lubricated. “IPL is not a cure-all; dry eyes is a chronic condition, but most symptoms can be improved. Another added benefit is that IPL improves skin tone and makes it more even. Many patients have both rosacea and dry eyes, and IPL actually reduces a patient’s redness and evens out skin tone.”
Some patients seek IPL therapy strictly for dry eyes, but others may want the treatment for cosmetic reasons. While it may seem odd to see your eye surgeon, an ophthalmologist, for a cosmetic-related treatment, laser-related therapy and technology are second nature to Dr. Choi. “Because Dr. Choi is a medical doctor and knows the eyes in and out, I would feel more comfortable with him doing an IPL treatment near my eyes than I would with almost anyone else,” says Katie Cusimano, Marketing Coordinator at Dr. Choi’s practice. “While it started as a dry eye treatment, Dr. Choi is branching out because he sees the other benefits, and because he’s a medical doctor, that provides a different level of trust and comfort.”
In addition to being a laser treatment expert, Dr. Choi is the first Birmingham physician to use the Lumenis OptiLight IPL laser, the only FDA-approved device that manages dry eye disease. “The Lumenis OptiLight IPL laser is the gold standard when it comes to IPL therapy for dry eyes,” says Dr. Choi. “Our practice wanted to provide the best in class for our patients.”
Regarding pain during IPL therapy, Katie says it is minimal and goes away almost immediately. In fact, most patients can resume normal activities after treatment. It’s recommended, however, that patients stay out of the sun one week before and after treatment. “The laser shocks you at the moment, but the pain immediately goes away,” adds Katie. “It’s uncomfortable, but it’s not painful. There’s no lasting pain, so 10 minutes after you walk out the door, you probably won’t feel that you just had an IPL done.”
While IPL therapy results are not permanent, Dr. Choi offers three- and four-treatment package options, and patients typically come back for a touch-up session every six months.
“Almost every patient continues IPL therapy for dry eyes because it has been the most effective treatment option for them,” Dr. Choi tells us. “Many of our patients elect to use IPL therapy on their face, neck, chest, hands, and arms to even their skin tone from irregular pigmentation from sun damage.”
While not everyone is eligible for IPL therapy, Dr. Choi suggests taking a Skin Typing Assessment to see if you’re a good fit. Those with darker skin tones often run the risk of being burned or developing white spots. Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible for treatment, you can schedule a free consultation with Dr. Choi to develop a treatment plan and discuss what areas and issues you want to address. To schedule your consultation, visit choieyemd.com or call (205) 839-6900.
Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center is located at 2100 Devereux Cir, Vestavia Hills, AL 35243.
This article is sponsored by Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center. All photography provided.
