Photobiomodulation (PBM) Therapy for Dry AMD
What is Photobiomodulation?
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive light therapy that uses specific wavelengths of visible light (Red and Yellow) to treat Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). Unlike surgery, PBM works at a cellular level, stimulating the mitochondria in retinal cells to produce more energy (ATP), reduce inflammation, and slow the progression of vision loss.
How PBM Treats Macular Degeneration
As we age, retinal cells suffer from mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to a buildup of waste (drusen) and cell death. PBM reverses this process through three key mechanisms:
Stimulates Energy Production
The light is absorbed by an enzyme called cytochrome c oxidase. This boosts the production of ATP, the fuel cells need to survive.
Reduces Oxidative Stress
It lowers the levels of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), which are toxic molecules that accumulate and damage the macula.
Inhibits Inflammation
The therapy reduces inflammatory markers, preventing further damage to the retinal tissue and supporting a healthier eye environment.
The Dual-Light Protocol: Yellow vs. Red Light
Our treatment utilizes the LM® LLLT system, which delivers two distinct phases of light in every session.
| Light Type | Wavelength | Duration | Primary Clinical Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow Light | 590 nm | 6 Minutes | Detoxification: Inhibits VEGF (a protein linked to Wet AMD), improves oxygen delivery, and washes out cellular waste. |
| Red Light | 630 nm | 6 Minutes | Regeneration: Directly stimulates mitochondria to boost ATP energy, helping retinal cells repair and survive. |
Key Benefits of PBM Therapy
Beyond simply slowing progression, PBM offers specific physiological benefits.
Improved Contrast Sensitivity
Many patients report better ability to distinguish objects in low-light conditions.
Reduction of Drusen
Studies suggest PBM can help the eye naturally clear drusen deposits (protein clumps) from the macula.
Non-Invasive Safety
The treatment is completely painless, non-thermal (no heat), and involves no injections or surgery.
Protection Against 'Wet' AMD
By inhibiting VEGF with Yellow light, the therapy may reduce the risk of conversion to the more dangerous Wet AMD.
Your Treatment Plan
The clinical protocol for Dry AMD consists of an initial loading phase followed by maintenance to ensure sustained mitochondrial function.
Compare the Technology
Why we chose the Eye-light® system for our patients.
| Feature | Standard PBM (Valeda) | Our Technology (Eye-light®) |
|---|---|---|
| Delivery System | Desktop Device (Requires Fixation) | Wearable Mask (Fully Relaxed) |
| Treatment Area | Retina Only | Retina + Eyelids (Dry Eye) |
| Light Wavelengths | Yellow (590nm) + Red (660nm) | Yellow (590nm) + Red (630nm) |
| Patient Comfort | Must sit upright | Reclined in Therapy Chair |
Benefits of PBM for Dry AMD Treatment
Stimulation of Mitochondrial Activity
The device we use emits light at targeted wavelengths—red, yellow, and near-infrared—that penetrate the retinal tissues.
These wavelengths are absorbed by the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, which are particularly abundant in retinal cells. This absorption boosts the mitochondria’s capacity to generate adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cell’s primary energy source.
Reduction of Oxidative Stress
By increasing ATP production, cells become more efficient in combating free radicals—unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress and contribute to cell damage, a critical factor in the development of AMD.
Photobiomodulation promotes the cells’ ability to generate antioxidants, which helps protect against further oxidative stress and cellular damage.
Cellular Repairs
PBM stimulates cellular repair processes, helping damaged cells recover and function more efficiently. This is vital for preserving the health of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and photoreceptors, both critical for maintaining vision.
By supporting the health and performance of RPE cells, PBM aids in preserving retinal integrity and slowing further degeneration.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Light therapy works to decrease inflammation in the retinal tissues. Persistent inflammation is a key factor in the advancement of AMD, causing further tissue damage and cell loss.
Reduction in Drusen Accumulation
Drusen, which are deposits of cellular waste beneath the retina, are a key indicator of dry AMD. PBM supports the removal of these deposits, helping to preserve retinal health.
The therapy also plays a role in preventing the formation of additional drusen, slowing the progression of the disease.
Dry AMD Treatment FAQs
Can Dry AMD Be Stopped Completely?
Unfortunately, there is no way to completely halt the progression of dry AMD. However, dry AMD treatment that utilises photobiomodulation can slow the progress of degeneration, preserving eyesight as much as possible.
How Often Should I Have Dry AMD Treatments?
Our dry AMD treatments involve an initial block of eight sessions, each session spaced 3-4 days apart. Once this initial treatment has been completed, you can then move onto maintenance cycles, which are 6 sessions also spaced 3-4 days apart.
Can You Lose Your Sight With Dry Macular Degeneration?
You can lose most of your central sight with dry AMD. AMD affects the central field of vision, so people lose their vision directly ahead of them, while maintaining peripheral vision (vision around the edges of the sight).
How Else Can I Manage Dry AMD?
There are several lifestyle changes you can make to help manage dry AMD:
- Quitting smoking (if you smoke).
- Eating a healthy diet high in leafy greens, fish, and antioxidants.
- Getting at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.
- Using sunglasses and hats that protect your eyes from UV rays.
- Consider taking supplements that contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which help to support macular health.
How Quickly Does Dry AMD Progress?
Macular degeneration generally progresses very slowly, over a period of years. The earlier it is caught by an optician or optometrist, the better, as this gives treatment a better chance of succeeding.
Who Can Have Dry AMD Treatment?
Dry AMD treatment is suitable for anyone who has been diagnosed. PBM treatment is non-invasive and has been extensively researched to ensure it is totally safe, so no matter the stage your macular degeneration is at, you can benefit.
However, it is important to note that any damage already done to the macula can’t be undone. The sooner you catch and begin to treat AMD, the better.
Can Dry Macular Degeneration Turn Into Wet?
Yes, wet AMD is the last stage of dry AMD. However, not everyone who has dry AMD will get wet AMD - only around 10-15% of people will develop wet AMD.