What Is Valeda Light Therapy and How Does It Help Patients With Dry AMD?

Dry age-related macular degeneration, or dry AMD, is a progressive eye condition that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for detailed central vision. For patients in Houston living with early to intermediate dry AMD, treatment options have traditionally been limited. Valeda Light Therapy offers a new, noninvasive approach designed to help improve visual acuity in appropriately selected patients.

At Vision Source Mission Bend, we are one of the first optometry clinics in Texas to offer Valeda, giving our patients access to this advanced treatment close to home.

What Is Valeda Light Therapy?

Valeda uses photobiomodulation, or PBM, which delivers specific wavelengths of light to retinal tissue. These wavelengths are designed to support cellular energy processes within the retina.

Rather than using injections, medications, or surgery, Valeda provides controlled light therapy through the Valeda Light Delivery System. Treatment does not require anesthesia or injections, making it a convenient option for qualifying dry AMD patients. Valeda is the first and only FDA-authorized light-based treatment for early to intermediate dry AMD that is intended to improve visual acuity in certain patients.

How Can Valeda Help With Dry AMD?

Dry AMD can gradually affect the sharp central vision needed for activities such as reading, recognizing faces, driving, and seeing fine details. Valeda is designed for specific patients with early to intermediate dry AMD and qualifying retinal findings.

Depending on an individual patient's condition, potential benefits of Valeda treatment include:

•          Improving or maintaining visual acuity

•          Providing a noninvasive treatment option without injections

•          Supporting retinal cellular function through photobiomodulation

•          Offering a treatment specifically designed for certain forms of dry AMD

Clinical data for the Valeda Light Delivery System showed improved mean visual acuity of approximately one ETDRS line after about two years compared with patients who did not receive treatment.

What Does Valeda Treatment Involve?

Valeda treatments are performed in our Houston optometry office. A treatment course involves short light therapy sessions, with treatment delivered to each qualifying eye according to the recommended protocol. Patients can typically return to their normal activities afterward because treatment does not require injections, anesthesia, or a surgical procedure.

Why Choose Vision Source Mission Bend for Valeda Light Therapy?

At Vision Source Mission Bend, we are committed to bringing advanced eye care options to patients in Houston. As one of the first optometry clinics in Texas to offer Valeda Light Therapy, we are proud to provide qualifying patients with access to an innovative, noninvasive treatment for early to intermediate dry AMD.

Our team begins with a comprehensive eye examination and retinal evaluation to determine whether Valeda is appropriate for your specific needs. We take the time to explain your condition, review your treatment options, and create a personalized care plan focused on protecting your vision and supporting your long-term eye health.

Schedule a consultation with Vision Source Mission Bend to find out if Valeda Light Therapy may be right for you. Contact our office Houston, TX, by calling (281) 933-3446 to book an appointment today.