Dry Macular Degeneration Treatment in San Carlos, CA

Photobiomodulation (PBM) light therapy is being studied as a treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Clinical research has shown promising results in visual function and retinal health. However, individual results vary, and PBM is not a cure for AMD.

Some clinical studies have reported improvements in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity following PBM treatment. However, not every patient experiences improvement, and results depend on the stage of AMD and individual retinal health. Vision improvement cannot be guaranteed.

Clinical research has shown encouraging results suggesting that photobiomodulation (PBM) may help support retinal health and slow certain changes associated with dry macular degeneration. While additional long-term research is ongoing, PBM offers a promising approach for appropriate patients. Regular retinal monitoring remains an important part of protecting your vision.

No. PBM light therapy does not replace regular eye examinations, retinal imaging, or AREDS2 supplements when recommended by your eye doctor. Ongoing monitoring is important because dry AMD can progress, and some patients may develop wet AMD, which requires prompt evaluation and treatment.

PBM has not been proven to prevent dry AMD from progressing to wet AMD. Patients receiving PBM should continue regular retinal examinations and report sudden vision changes, new distortion, or dark spots promptly. Early detection of wet AMD is important because timely treatment may help preserve vision.

No. There is currently no cure for dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, photobiomodulation (PBM) light therapy is a promising approach being studied for its potential to support retinal health, improve visual function, and slow certain changes associated with dry AMD.

While individual results vary and vision improvement cannot be guaranteed, PBM may offer an additional option for appropriate patients. Regular retinal monitoring remains essential to managing AMD and protecting your remaining vision.

Some patients with dry AMD may be candidates for PBM light therapy, depending on the stage of their condition and overall retinal health. At San Carlos Eye Care, we perform a comprehensive retinal evaluation, including advanced imaging, to determine whether treatment may be appropriate. Patients with wet AMD require evaluation and treatment by a retina specialist.

Our PBM light therapy program uses a treatment schedule based on the LIGHTSITE III clinical trial, consisting of 54 sessions over approximately two years.

Treatment begins with nine sessions over approximately three to five weeks, followed by additional nine-session courses about every four months, when appropriate.

The recommended schedule may vary depending on your retinal health, treatment response, and ongoing clinical evaluations. We monitor your eyes throughout the program to determine whether continued treatment remains appropriate.

Our team will explain the treatment plan, answer your questions, and guide you through each stage of your care.

PBM light therapy is a gentle, noninvasive treatment that is generally comfortable and well tolerated. There are no needles, injections, or surgery involved.

During treatment, you may notice bright colored lights or a warm glow. These visual sensations are expected and typically temporary. Most patients experience little to no discomfort.

Each session is brief and typically requires no downtime, so you can usually return to your normal activities afterward. Our team will guide you through each session to help you feel comfortable and informed.

Insurance coverage for PBM treatment varies by insurance plan and treatment circumstances. Coverage is not guaranteed, and patients may be responsible for out-of-pocket expenses. Our patient care team can explain the treatment costs and available payment arrangements before you begin.

Photobiomodulation (PBM) and microcurrent therapy are different approaches being studied for dry age-related macular degeneration. PBM uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular processes within the retina, including mitochondrial activity. Microcurrent therapy uses very low-level electrical stimulation rather than light. While both approaches are being investigated for retinal health, they work through different mechanisms and have different levels of clinical evidence and requlatory status.