Photobiomodulation Therapy

Photobiomodulation Therapy: Early treatment makes a difference

Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in people over 65. Until recently, there were limited treatment options available. Now, a groundbreaking FDA-authorized innovation known as the Valeda Light Delivery System, also referred to as photobiomodulation therapy, offers new hope for patients with this progressive condition.

What Is Dry Macular Degeneration?

Dry AMD is a chronic, age-related eye disease that affects the macula—the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision. It occurs due to the gradual breakdown of light-sensitive cells in the macula, often accompanied by the accumulation of drusen (yellow deposits of protein and lipids). Over time, this can lead to vision distortion, loss of central vision, and difficulty with daily activities like reading or recognizing faces.

Dry AMD accounts for approximately 85–90% of all macular degeneration cases. While the progression can be slow, it remains a leading cause of permanent vision impairment.

Symptoms of Dry AMD may include

• Blurry or fuzzy vision
• Straight lines appear bent/wavy
• Reduced intensity/brightness of colors
• Trouble adapting to low light
• Loss of central vision, which is necessary for driving, reading, recognizing faces, and performing close-up work.

Introducing the Valeda Light Delivery System

The Valeda Light Delivery System is the first and only FDA-authorized treatment designed specifically to improve visual acuity in patients with Dry AMD. This innovative therapy harnesses the science of photobiomodulation (PBM)—a non-invasive, light-based technology that uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate the body’s cellular energy production.

The treatment uses a combination of blue, red, and near-infrared light to target retinal cells. This light stimulates mitochondrial activity within the cells, encouraging cellular repair and reducing oxidative stress. Healthy retinal cells are critical for maintaining good vision, and Valeda therapy aims to preserve and even enhance this functionality.

How Does Photobiomodulation Work?

Photobiomodulation works by directing precise wavelengths of low-level light into the retina. These wavelengths are absorbed by cellular mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy within cells. By stimulating mitochondrial activity, PBM enhances cell function, promotes healing, and reduces inflammation.

With Valeda, light in three key wavelengths—590 nm (yellow), 660 nm (red), and 850 nm (near-infrared)—is delivered in a safe, pain-free session lasting under 5 minutes per eye. The light penetrates into the retinal layers to promote:

• Enhanced cellular metabolism

• Increased ATP production

• Reduction in inflammation

• Improved blood flow

• Slower degeneration of photoreceptors

Why Early Treatment Matters

Dry AMD is a progressive disease. Starting treatment early—before vision loss becomes severe—may help slow the degeneration and support healthy retinal function. While there is no cure for AMD, proactive treatment with photodynamic therapy can help maintain and even improve vision.  Retinal imaging indicates improvement in eye scans when assessed for drusen (protein deposits observed in eyes with dry AMD).

To learn more about this treatment or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (877) 554-2020.

You can also click below to view a patient brochure.

Valeda® is a prescription, non-invasive light-based treatment intended to improve visual acuity in certain patients with dry age-related macular degeneration who meet specific eligibility criteria. Not every patient is a candidate, individual results vary, and treatment has contraindications and precautions. A retina specialist must determine whether treatment is appropriate. Insurance coverage and patient financial responsibility vary by plan and individual circumstances; coverage is not guaranteed.