Low-Level Light Therapy for Retinal Health
Low-Level Light Therapy, or LLLT, is an advanced, non-invasive treatment designed to support retinal health and manage conditions such as dry age-related macular degeneration. This therapy uses gentle, targeted light to encourage natural cellular processes in the retina, helping protect and improve vision.
How Low-Level Light Therapy Works
LLLT uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate healthy cellular activity. One type of LLLT commonly used in eye care is photobiomodulation (PBM). Each wavelength supports retinal cells in a unique way:
- 590 nm (yellow light): Helps reduce vascular endothelial growth factor activity and clears cellular debris.
- 660 nm (red light): Supports oxygen use in cells and increases adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, which reduces inflammation and protects retinal cells.
- 850 nm (infrared light): Promotes metabolic activity, supports ATP production, helps limit inflammation and cellular loss, and encourages efficient electron transfer.
Together, these wavelengths help improve retinal cell function and support long-term eye health.
Our LLLT Treatment Protocol
At our Wichita and Goddard offices, LLLT therapy follows a structured, evidence-based protocol using the LIGHTSITE III system. Treatment begins with a comprehensive baseline eye exam, including retinal photos and optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging.
Each therapy cycle includes ten sessions: one session per week for eight weeks, followed by one session per month for two additional months. Follow-up exams help determine how often additional cycles may be needed to maintain results.
What to Expect
LLLT sessions typically last around 20 minutes and are comfortable for most patients. The treatment is well tolerated, with no significant side effects reported. Low-Level Light Therapy offers a safe and effective option for managing dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD) while supporting overall retinal health.