Dry, burning, watery, or gritty eyes can make daily tasks uncomfortable and distracting. These symptoms are often signs of dry eye disease, a condition that can affect tear stability and eye surface health. While eye drops can offer momentary relief, they often don’t address the underlying cause.
In recent years, light- and heat-based therapies like intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy and radiofrequency (RF) have emerged as powerful tools for treating dry eye, particularly when meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is involved. At Sage Eyecare, we use the InMode platform, which combines the benefits of both IPL and RF to help patients find lasting relief.
Understanding IPL & RF for Dry Eye Relief
IPL therapy uses light pulses to treat inflammation and help restore function to the Meibomian glands. These small glands, located along the eyelid margins, produce the oils that form a part of your tear film.
If these glands become blocked (a condition known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction or MGD), the outer layer of the tear film breaks down. This can lead to tears evaporating too quickly, causing dryness, redness, and irritation. IPL is often recommended for MGD, especially if symptoms persist despite the use of artificial tears or warm compresses.
RF (Radiofrequency) treatment, like Forma-I by InMode, uses precision-controlled heat to stimulate collagen production and gently warm the meibomian glands. This heat helps to melt any thickened oils trapped inside the glands, improving their ability to express naturally and consistently.
By combining IPL and RF, we can:
- Reduce inflammation around the eyelids
- Unclog and stimulate oil-producing glands
- Improve tear film quality and comfort
- Support smoother, more hydrated skin in the treated areas
These therapies work together to address both the root causes and visible symptoms of dry eye disease, making treatment more comprehensive.
What to Expect from IPL & RF Treatment
Both IPL and RF treatments are non-invasive procedures performed in-clinic. Here’s what you can expect:
- A cooling gel is applied to the area under your eyes.
- Protective eye shields are worn throughout IPL treatment.
- IPL delivers a series of gentle light pulses to the skin near the lower eyelid to reduce inflammation and treat blood vessels contributing to dry eye.
- RF provides targeted heat to the eyelids, stimulating gland activity and collagen production.
- After either treatment, we may manually express the Meibomian glands to release any blocked oil.
You can return to your daily routine immediately after your appointment. Your skin may feel warm or appear slightly red for a few hours. If you’re planning to be outside, mineral sunscreen is recommended, as your skin may be temporarily more sensitive to light.
How Many Sessions Are Typically Needed?
Most patients undergo a series of three to four sessions spaced several weeks apart. The effects of treatment often build gradually. Many patients report increased comfort and reduced flare-ups after completing the full series of treatments.
To maintain long-term results, periodic maintenance treatments may be suggested once or twice per year, depending on your symptoms and overall eye health.
Is IPL & RF the Right Fit for Your Dry Eye Symptoms?
IPL and RF tend to be most effective for people with evaporative dry eye linked to meibomian gland dysfunction. If your symptoms are caused by an autoimmune condition or reduced tear production, other treatments may be more suitable.
You may be a good candidate for IPL or RF if you experience the following dry eye symptoms:
- Have been diagnosed with MGD
- Experience frequent dryness, irritation, or watery eyes
- Have tried other therapies with limited success
- Show visible redness or inflammation near the eyelids
- Prefer a non-drug, clinic-based option
Some people, such as those with darker skin tones or certain medical conditions, may not be ideal candidates for IPL. We’ll assess your medical history and skin type before making a recommendation.
Other Dry Eye Treatments
Dry eye disease has many potential causes, and treatment often requires a layered approach. Here are some other common therapies for dry eye disease:
- Warm compresses or eyelid masks, to help unblock oil glands and improve tear stability
- Artificial tears or medicated eye drops, which offer symptom relief and reduce inflammation
- Omega-3 supplements, which may support gland health and help regulate tear quality
- Lifestyle adjustments, like reducing screen time, staying hydrated, or using a humidifier, can support dry eye relief. At Sage Eyecare, we’ve also curated specialized dry eye products—such as eyelid masks, lid cleansing wipes, preservative-free artificial tears, Omega-3 supplements, ocular vitamins, and mineral sunscreens—all available in one convenient location to support your at-home care.
While these therapies are a strong foundation for many patients, Sage Eyecare offers additional in-clinic technologies to support more precise care. These options help us diagnose and treat the root cause of dry eye, not just the symptoms.
- MYAH by TopCon Healthcare is a versatile diagnostic device that provides a complete picture of the surface of your eye. It includes noninvasive tear break-up time (NIBUT) testing, blink pattern analysis, and gland imaging (meibography) to guide personalized treatment. MYAH also offers tools for corneal topography and pupillometry, supporting dry eye care and more.
Finding Relief That Works for You
Dry eye doesn’t always go away on its own, but it can be managed with the right care. Treatments like RF and IPL offer a targeted way to support more comfortable eyes, especially when Meibomian gland function is a factor.
Sage Eyecare offers a calm, modern environment where dry eye therapies like IPL & RF are part of a larger plan to support long-term ocular wellness. We focus on identifying the source of your symptoms and recommending options that work for you.
If you’re exploring new solutions for chronic dry eye, book an appointment with our team today. We’re here to help you see clearly and feel comfortable.
