Valeda Light Therapy for AMD
Valeda Light Therapy for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
If you’ve been diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), you’ve probably been told to monitor your vision and return for follow-up visits as the condition progresses. Today, however, a new treatment is available exclusively at Silverstein Eye Centers.
We are excited to announce that our practice is the first (and only) eye care clinic in Kansas City to offer Valeda Light Therapy, an FDA-authorized treatment designed to improve visual acuity in qualifying patients with dry AMD.
For patients and families looking for a proactive option, Valeda offers something many people with dry AMD have not had before: a noninvasive treatment designed to help support vision now and into the future.
What Is Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration?
Dry AMD is a progressive retinal disease that affects the macula, the part of the eye responsible for detailed central vision. It is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.
Symptoms of dry AMD may include:
- Blurry or fuzzy vision
- Straight lines that appear wavy or bent
- Reduced intensity or brightness of colors
- Trouble adapting to low light
- Loss of central vision
Dry AMD affects people differently. Some patients notice gradual vision changes, while others may have mild or limited symptoms at first. Over time, however, retinal cells can deteriorate, which may contribute to worsening vision and, in some cases, permanent vision loss.
What Is Valeda Light Therapy, and How Does it Work?
Valeda Light Therapy is a light-based treatment that uses photobiomodulation (PBM) to stimulate cellular energy production inside the retina. Healthier cellular energy production may help support retinal cell function, which is why this technology is being used as a treatment option for certain patients with dry AMD.
Who May Be a Candidate for Valeda?
Valeda is intended for patients with best-corrected visual acuity of 20/32 through 20/70 who have dry AMD characterized by one or more of the following:
- At least 3 medium drusen
- Large drusen
- Non-central geographic atrophy
In addition, the treatment is intended for patients without neovascular maculopathy or center-involving geographic atrophy.
To learn if you’re a qualified candidate, please contact our office to schedule a consultation and retinal evaluation.
What Is the Valeda Treatment Experience Like?
One of the most appealing things about Valeda for many patients is that it is noninvasive.
- No drops
- No speculum
- No injections
- Dilation free
- Anesthesia free
During treatment, you sit comfortably in front of the device while each eye is treated individually. The active treatment time is less than 5 minutes per eye per session.
After treatment, some patients may briefly experience an afterimage from the bright lights, known as photostress, which typically resolves in about 15 to 30 seconds. Patients can generally return to normal activities afterward.
However, Valeda is not for everyone. Patients should not be treated with Valeda if they have:
- Known photosensitivity to yellow, red, or near-infrared light
- A history of light-activated central nervous system disorders such as epilepsy or migraine
- Recent use of certain photosensitizing agents, unless cleared by their physician
A thorough eye exam is essential before any treatment is recommended.
Why is Valeda Better for Treating Dry AMD?
Until now, dry AMD patients have had limited options to help improve their vision. Valeda offers an entirely new approach for treatment: a noninvasive, in-office therapy designed to help support visual function before more severe progression occurs.
- Routine in-office treatments
- Comfortable and quick procedure
- Needle-free
- Backed by published clinical data and FDA authorization
Why Choose Silverstein Eye Centers for Valeda Light Therapy?
When you are dealing with a progressive eye condition like dry macular degeneration, experience matters. At Silverstein Eye Centers, patients benefit from specialized ophthalmic care, advanced diagnostic technology, and individualized treatment planning.
Dr. Silverstein is the first and only ophthalmologist in Kansas City currently offering Valeda Light Therapy.
Schedule a Valeda Consultation in Kansas City
If you have been diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration and want to learn whether Valeda Light Therapy may be right for you, Silverstein Eye Centers is here to help.
A consultation can determine whether you meet treatment criteria, review your retinal imaging, and help you understand what to expect from the treatment process.
Call today to schedule your dry AMD evaluation and ask whether Valeda Light Therapy may be an option for you.