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Dry Eyes Getting Worse? A New Light-Based Treatment Could Help
If you’ve noticed your eyes feeling gritty, irritated or tired (especially during the cooler months) you’re not alone. Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that affects people of all ages, and it often worsens in autumn and winter when indoor heating and dry air reduce the moisture in our environment.
At Bayside Eyecare, we’re always looking for innovative ways to support our patients’ eye health. That’s why we’re excited to introduce a new in-clinic treatment: LLLT for dry eye, a non-invasive, light-based therapy designed to treat the underlying causes of dry, irritated eyes.
This advanced treatment offers new hope for those suffering from Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), chronic dryness, or ongoing eye discomfort.
What Is LLLT (Low-Level Light Therapy)?
LLLT, or Low-Level Light Therapy, is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. It’s sometimes referred to as photobiomodulation, which simply means using light to influence biological functions.
LLLT has emerged as a promising solution for dry eye disease, particularly when caused by inflammation or blocked oil glands. By applying low-level red or near-infrared light to the skin around the eyes, the therapy helps reduce inflammation, increase cellular activity, and improve the function of the Meibomian glands. These glands play a key role in producing the oily layer of your tears, which helps prevent them from evaporating too quickly. Studies show that up to 86% of dry eye cases involve some level of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, making it one of the most important causes to address in long-term treatment.
Unlike more invasive procedures, LLLT is completely comfortable and can be performed in-clinic without the need for recovery time. It is part of a new wave of treatments that work at the source of the problem rather than just masking the symptoms.
How LLLT Helps with Dry Eyes
One of the most common causes of dry eye is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). These tiny oil glands, located along the edges of your eyelids, are responsible for producing the protective oil layer of your tear film. When they become blocked or inflamed, your tears evaporate too quickly, leading to symptoms like dryness, burning, redness, blurred vision, and excessive tearing.
LLLT targets these glands by using therapeutic light to gently heat and stimulate them. This encourages healthy oil flow, clears blockages, and helps restore the natural balance of your tear film. As a result, your eyes feel more comfortable, less irritated, and better protected from environmental stressors like wind, heating, and screen time.
Many patients report noticeable improvements in:
- Eye comfort during the day
- Reduced redness and inflammation around the eyes
- Relief from tearing and watery eyes, especially in windy or dry conditions
LLLT also complements other dry eye treatments and is particularly helpful for those who haven’t found lasting relief with warm compresses or drops alone.
What to Expect During Treatment
LLLT for dry eye is designed to be simple, comfortable, and stress-free. Each session takes around 20 minutes and is performed in our clinic by a trained optometrist or clinical team member.
You’ll be asked to lie back and relax . A specialised mask is placed gently over the area around your eyes, delivering low-level red and near-infrared light in a carefully controlled pattern. Patients often describe the sensation as a gentle warmth, with many finding it quite soothing.
There’s no pain, no contact with the eyes, and no downtime afterward. You can return to your normal activities immediately after your appointment.
For best results, we typically recommend:
- A course of four sessions, spaced about a week apart
- A top-up session every six months, depending on your symptoms and response to treatment
Your optometrist will create a tailored treatment plan based on your individual needs and the severity of your dry eye symptoms.
Is LLLT Safe?
LLLT is considered a very safe treatment for dry eye. It is non-invasive, drug-free, and painless, making it an excellent option for patients seeking a natural approach to managing their symptoms.
The light used in LLLT is low-level and specifically calibrated for therapeutic use. It does not damage skin or tissue
Some patients may notice a mild warming sensation during the procedure or temporary light sensitivity afterwards, but these effects are typically short-lived and resolve quickly on their own.
LLLT has been used in medical and cosmetic fields for many years and is supported by growing clinical evidence in the treatment of dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. At Bayside Eyecare, we use a clinically proven device designed specifically for the delicate area around the eyes, ensuring comfort and effectiveness.
Who Is LLLT Suitable For?
LLLT is an excellent treatment option for patients experiencing chronic dry eye symptoms, especially when caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). It is particularly beneficial for those who:
- Suffer from persistent dry, irritated, or red eyes
- Experience excessive tearing or watery eyes
- Have tried eye drops, warm compresses, or medications with limited success
- Spend extended periods in air-conditioned or heated environments
- Wear contact lenses or spend long hours on digital devices
LLLT is also a promising option for people with recurrent styes (hordeolum), including children from around 7 years of age. Traditionally, persistent or severe styes sometimes required minor surgical procedures to drain them. LLLT offers a non-invasive alternative by reducing inflammation and improving the flow of meibum (the natural oil produced by the Meibomian glands that helps protect and lubricate the eye) which may help resolve styes without the need for surgery.
LLLT may also help patients with related conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), or those looking for a proactive, non-medicated approach to managing their eye comfort long term.
Before beginning treatment, all patients will have a comprehensive dry eye assessment at Bayside Eyecare. This allows our optometrists to evaluate your symptoms, determine the underlying cause, and ensure that LLLT is the right option for your needs.
Why Choose Bayside Eyecare for Dry Eye Treatment?
At Bayside Eyecare, we understand that dry eyes can significantly impact your comfort, focus, and quality of life. That’s why we take a personalised approach to every patient, ensuring your treatment is tailored to your specific needs and symptoms.
Our experienced team of optometrists has a strong focus on ocular surface health and stays up to date with the latest evidence-based treatments. We’re proud to offer in-clinic access to advanced technology, including our LLLT device, which allows us to treat the root cause of dry eye in a comfortable, effective way.
When you choose Bayside Eyecare, you can expect:
- Comprehensive assessments to uncover the cause of your symptoms
- Customised treatment plans based on your lifestyle and eye health
- Ongoing support and care from a trusted local clinic
Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, we’re here to help you find long-lasting relief using the most advanced tools available.
Experience Relief with LLLT at Bayside Eyecare
If dry, irritated eyes are affecting your daily comfort, now is the perfect time to explore a more advanced solution. Whether you’ve tried other treatments without success or are looking for a drug-free option, LLLT could be the answer.
Book your dry eye consultation today and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision. You can call us on (03) 9909 5329 to speak with our friendly team and book your consultation.
Bayside Eyecare is proud to offer the latest in dry eye treatments, including LLLT for dry eye, helping patients find long-lasting relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is LLLT different from other dry eye treatments?
LLLT for dry eye works by treating the underlying cause of dryness, particularly Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Unlike eye drops that only offer temporary relief, LLLT helps restore natural tear film balance by stimulating the oil glands in your eyelids using therapeutic light.
Is LLLT suitable for everyone with dry eyes?
LLLT is ideal for many people with chronic dry eye, especially when linked to gland dysfunction or inflammation. However, a thorough assessment with an optometrist is needed to confirm if it’s the right treatment for your individual needs.
Do I need to stop using my current dry eye treatments?
No, LLLT can be used alongside other dry eye treatments, including drops, warm compresses, and lid hygiene. Your optometrist will guide you on the best way to combine therapies for optimal results.