If you’re considering IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy for dry eye, you’re likely eager to learn what lies ahead. From the initial evaluation to the day of your treatment, our goal is to ensure you feel confident and informed. Let’s explore what you can expect every step of the way.

Comprehensive Dry Eye Evaluation: Your First Step

Your IPL journey begins with a thorough dry eye consultation, designed to determine the severity of your condition and whether IPL therapy is the right choice for you. By understanding the root causes of your symptoms we can ensure that the appropriate treatment plan is created to provide the best outcomes.

Here’s what happens during this vital step:

Review of Medical and Lifestyle History:

Our eye doctor will assess factors like your health history, current medications, lifestyle, and environmental exposures. These can significantly influence your dry eye symptoms and treatment options.

Advanced Diagnostics:

Expect high-definition and infrared imaging to capture detailed visuals of your eyes.

We’ll perform point-of-care tests and evaluate your ocular surface using a slit-lamp microscope.

Dyes will be used to identify any abnormalities or damage.

Topographical imaging of the cornea

Identify root causes or rule out alternative causes:

Dry eye isn’t always straightforward. We’ll rule out other causes and identify the reason you are experiencing dry eye symptoms.

Allergies

Ocular Rosacea

Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)

Demodex Blepharitis

Nocturnal Lagophthalmos

Neurotrophic Keratitis

Filamentary Keratitis

Punctate Keratitis

Education and Lifestyle Guidance:

You’ll receive a detailed explanation of your diagnosis and practical advice on lifestyle modifications. Knowledge empowers you to manage your symptoms effectively.

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Preparing for IPL Treatment: Steps for Success

Proper preparation is essential for a smooth and effective IPL session. Here’s how to get ready:

Two to Three Weeks Before:

Avoid prolonged sun exposure and skip tanning beds or UV-heavy environments.

Discontinue use of tanning lotions to reduce skin sensitivity.

One Week Before:

Stop using any skincare products that contain Retinol, Benzoyl Peroxide, Glycolic/Salicylic Acids, Vitamin C, or astringents. These ingredients can make your skin more reactive during treatment.

Ongoing Communication:

Notify us of any changes in your medications or health history before each session. This helps us adjust the treatment safely and effectively.

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!”

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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.”

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Marina M.

Custom Treatment Plans

If IPL is the best treatment option then our eye doctor will explain how many sessions may be needed and whether other complementary treatments should be completed beforehand. This collaborative approach ensures a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

What Happens on Treatment Day?

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Before the Session:

Arrive with a clean face—no makeup, creams, or lotions in the treatment area.

We’ll use micellar wipes to thoroughly cleanse your face before starting.

Pre-treatment photos will be taken to document your progress over time.

The IPL Treatment Process:

Eye Protection: Your eyes will be covered with shields or goggles to block out the bright light pulses.

Cooling Gel Application: A thin layer of cooling gel will be applied to the treatment area to protect your skin and enhance comfort.

Test Spots: We’ll perform test spots to determine the ideal energy level for your treatment, adjusting it as needed for maximum effectiveness.

Light Pulses: The IPL device will emit two passes of pulses using a faceplate, followed by two additional passes with the IPL tip for precision. These pulses warm the skin around your eyelids, gently dislodging oil buildup in the meibomian glands.

Oil Expression: After the light treatment, we’ll gently massage your eyelids to express the oils. This helps restore healthy oil flow in your tear film, improving eye lubrication.

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.

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What to Expect Post-Treatment

While IPL therapy is non-invasive and typically well-tolerated, here are a few things to keep in mind after your appointment:

The following may occur after your treatment:

You may experience mild redness or warmth in the treated area, which usually resolves within a few hours.

Avoid sun exposure for a few days post-treatment and follow any specific skincare guidelines provided by your doctor.

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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.