Imagine a LASIK recovery without the discomfort of dry eye—that’s now possible thanks to the remarkable benefits of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy. A groundbreaking clinical trial has revealed how IPL can not only prevent but also alleviate post-surgical dry eye syndrome (DES), for LASIK and SMILE patients. IPL enhances comfort, accelerates healing, and ensures the best possible vision outcomes for those undergoing refractive surgery.

Why Dry Eye Happens After LASIK and SMILE

Dry eye after LASIK occurs due to a combination of factors:

Corneal Nerve Disruption:

LASIK and SMILE procedures sever some anterior stromal nerves, reducing corneal sensitivity and reflex tear production.

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD):

The surgery exacerbates gland dysfunction, impairing the oil layer of the tear film.

Inflammation:

Elevated inflammatory markers and cytokines like interleukin-6 worsen ocular surface health.

Together, these changes destabilize the tear film, leading to common dry eye symptoms like irritation, blurred vision, and discomfort.

Request a Consult

Breakthrough Study Proves IPL Prevents and Relieves Dry Eye After LASIK

This groundbreaking study, published in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Ophthalmology in early 2024, shows the importance of IPL for patients undergoing LASIK and SMILE.

This study demonstrates that perioperative IPL can:

Prevent Post-Surgical Dry Eye:

By stabilizing the tear film and enhancing gland function, IPL reduces the risk of developing DES after surgery.

Improve Comfort:

IPL-treated patients reported better subjective comfort during the recovery period.

Enhance Long-Term Outcomes:

While subjective benefits faded slightly at six months, objective measures like tear stability and gland health continued to show improvement.

Patients who received IPL therapy had three sessions: one a week before surgery to prepare their eyes, and two more at one and three weeks after surgery to support healing and enhance comfort.

Researchers followed all participants for six months after surgery to carefully measure how IPL improved their dry eye symptoms and overall recovery.

What the Study Found

The study showed that IPL therapy made a big difference for patients dealing with dry eye after LASIK:

Fewer Symptoms:

By three months, IPL patients reported much less dryness and discomfort. Even after six months, they had better overall results.

Better Tear Stability:

Tears lasted longer on the eyes, and tear volume improved, keeping eyes hydrated.

Each session takes about 45 to 60 minutes. While you may notice bright flashes of light during treatment, rest assured—your eyes will remain fully protected throughout.

Healthier Glands:

IPL helped the oil-producing glands in the eyelids work better, reducing dryness.

Safe and Effective:

There were no side effects from IPL or LASIK, making it a safe option for recovery.

These results show IPL isn’t just helpful—it’s a game-changer for anyone looking to avoid or ease dry eye after surgery.

Request a Consult

The Highest Rated Specialty Eye Care Center In Orange County

What Our Patients are Saying

“I love this office! The staff is so friendly, helpful and welcoming. Dr. Lam has helped with my dry eye symptoms and myopia and takes the time to explain things thoroughly. I never feel like she is rushing me out of the office to see the next patient. She is extremely knowledgeable and I feel very well cared for. I highly recommend this office!”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Elaine N

“More recently I had an issue with super dry eyes and they provided me multiple solutions and care instructions to heal them quickly. What I like is that it’s not all about just solving the issue, they taught me about long term care and what to change to ensure my eyes get the hydration they need.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Marina M.

IPL’s Mechanisms of Action

IPL therapy addresses multiple aspects of dry eye:

Liquefying Blockages:

The heat generated by IPL softens clogged meibum in the glands, restoring flow.

Reducing Inflammation:

IPL reduces inflammatory markers, including MMP-9 and interleukin-6, which are elevated after surgery.

Vascular Thrombosis:

IPL closes abnormal blood vessels (telangiectasia) that contribute to inflammation.

Antimicrobial Effects:

IPL helps combat bacteria and mites like Demodex, which can worsen MGD.

Request a Consult

Our Expertise in Ocular Surface Disease (OSD)

Our team excels in managing Ocular Surface Disease (OSD) and Dry Eye. As the top-rated specialty eye care clinic in Orange County with a 4.9-star rating on Google and Yelp and over 600 glowing patient reviews, we are committed to delivering exceptional care.

Highlights of our expertise include:

Advanced Training:

Fellowship certifications and residencies in corneal health, dry eye management, and refractive surgery care.

Research Leadership:

Contributions to clinical trials and innovations in IPL, TearCare, and scleral lens technologies for OSD.

Educational Impact:

Regularly lecturing on OSD and dry eye therapies at national and international conferences.

Cutting-Edge Technology:

Investments in state-of-the-art tools for dry eye and ocular surface disease.

Patient-Centered Care:

A commitment to tailored treatments and compassionate support to improve your comfort and vision.

Request a Consult

Is IPL Right for Every LASIK Patient?

This groundbreaking study demonstrates that IPL is not just for select individuals but offers benefits for virtually all LASIK and SMILE patients. By addressing the root causes of post-surgical dry eye—meibomian gland dysfunction, inflammation, and tear film instability—IPL therapy provides a proactive solution for enhancing recovery and overall comfort.

Whether you have pre-existing mild dry eye, no symptoms at all, or simply want the smoothest recovery possible, IPL can help stabilize the tear film and optimize your post-surgery experience. Its ability to prevent dry eye symptoms before they start makes it a valuable option for every LASIK patient aiming for the best outcomes.

Ready to Take the Next Step? Visit Insight Vision Center Optometry, Orange County’s Top Rated Dry Eye Center

At our dry eye specialty practice in Costa Mesa, we’re committed to providing cutting-edge treatments with a personal touch. If you’re tired of living with dry eye symptoms, IPL might be the solution you’ve been waiting for. Schedule your consultation today, and experience life after dry eye.

Call us at (714) 942-1361 to book your appointment, or schedule online.

Insight Vision Center Optometry is a proud member of Vision Source, the premier network of private practice optometrists.

Our Testimonials

Real experiences from clients who’ve seen our expertise—discover what our patients have to say.

Dr. Chen and the staff are very friendly and professional and can provide patients with sincere service and advice.

Elise Fu

Insight Vision Center Optometry has truly transformed my eyecare experience over the past year. Under the expert care of Dr. Chen, Dr. Schramm, Dr. Lam, and Dr. Mai, I've received unparalleled attention and personalized service. Their commitment to excellence extends beyond the doctors to the outstanding admin and tech team who ensure a seamless and efficient visit every time.

The level of expertise, professionalism, and genuine care exhibited by the entire staff sets Insight Vision Center Optometry apart. From thorough examinations to comprehensive explanations of my eye health, they have created an atmosphere of trust and confidence. It's not just about eye care; it's about an extraordinary commitment to the well-being of their patients.

I wholeheartedly recommend Insight Vision Center Optometry to everyone seeking top-notch optometric services. It's more than an eye clinic; it's a place where your vision is valued, and your experience is exceptional. This team has undoubtedly set the standard for excellence in eyecare.

Nathaniel Choi

Dr. Mai and the entire personnel are amazing! Extremely polite, kind and professional. In addition, I can now see 20/20!!! Thank you, thank you all

Franchezka 777

Dr. Schramm is stellar. He really cares about his patients. Great staff. Scleral lenses are life changing.

Kevin W

My first eye exam in fifteen years. I am so thankful that I found Insight Vision Center. Dr. Lam and staff made me feel like a welcome guest. My eye exam revealed very minor blurriness and Dr. Lam did not pressure me into purchasing eyewear for a condition not necessitating glasses… yet. Maybe next year? I am getting older. They took my VSP insurance. Yay!

Scott H.

Dr. Lam and staff are amazing. Every phone call or interaction is friendly. You can feel the smiles and joy over whatever mode of communication you are interacting with them. Dr. Lam is very knowledgeable and helps you to better understand everything that is going on with your eyes. She made me aware of potential problems I may have with my eyes and walked me through every step of the process. She helped me understand the various factors that could be causing my vision to be a little impaired and followed up with me as I had to see an ophthalmologist. Great team, great office.

Virgilio S.