Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most common causes of blindness in people over 50 years old. It occurs when the light-sensitive cells in the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision—begin to break down over time. There are two main types of AMD — dry and wet. Wet AMD is more aggressive, and treatment requires monthly or quarterly injections into the eye. Dry AMD is the more common form of macular degeneration.
Dry AMD Symptoms
- Blurry or distorted central vision
- Difficulty reading
- Trouble recognizing faces
- Loss of contrast sensitivity
- Difficulty seeing in low light
- Straight lines appear wavy or crooked
While the condition typically progresses slowly, it can significantly impact quality of life
Dry AMD Treatments
Until recently, treatment options for dry AMD were very limited. Lifestyle preventative measures that have been encouraged include:
- Protection from UV light exposure (wearing sunglasses whenever outside)
- Eating green leafy vegetables
- Refraining from smoking tobacco
- Eating a good multivitamin, in particular with lutein and zeaxanthine (AREDS2 vitamins)
Most patients were told to monitor their vision, take specific vitamins (AREDS2), and hope the disease didn’t progress to the more severe “wet” form. However, new technology now offers a safe, non-invasive way to help improve retinal function—photobiomodulation.
Photobiomodulation Treatments
Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a light-based therapy that uses specific wavelengths of red, yellow, and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular energy production and reduce oxidative stress within the retina. These wavelengths penetrate the eye’s tissues and are absorbed by the mitochondria—the “powerhouses” of cells—helping them function more efficiently.
In patients with dry AMD, PBM has been shown to:
- Increase energy production in retinal cells
- Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress
- Support the health of photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)
- Improve visual performance, including contrast sensitivity and reading speed
The Valeda Light Delivery System is the first and only FDA-cleared device specifically designed to deliver this therapy safely and precisely to the retina.
The Valeda Light Delivery System
The Valeda Light Delivery System by LumiThera® delivers controlled doses of multi-wavelength light directly to the retina through a comfortable, non-invasive procedure. Each session takes only a few minutes and is performed in-office. During the treatment, you’ll sit comfortably while gentle light is applied to your eyes. There is no pain, no injection, and no downtime. Most patients complete a series of treatments over several weeks, with periodic follow-up sessions as recommended by the doctor.
Clinical studies have shown that patients who undergo Valeda treatments may experience:
- Improved visual acuity
- Enhanced contrast sensitivity
- Better color perception and reading ability
- Greater quality of life and visual comfort
Why Choose Kauai Eye Institute for Valeda Treatment?
At Kauai Eye Institute, we are proud to be on the cutting edge – among the select practices offering the Valeda Light Delivery System for patients with dry macular degeneration. In fact, we are the FIRST practice in the entire state of Hawaii to offer photobiomodulation treatments. Our ophthalmology team is committed to providing the most advanced, evidence-based treatments to preserve and enhance your vision. We take the time to evaluate each patient’s retinal health and tailor a treatment plan to your unique needs. Our goal is to slow the progression of dry AMD and help you maintain the best vision possible—so you can continue doing the things you love.
What to Expect
- Comprehensive Evaluation – We’ll begin with a detailed retinal exam and imaging to determine if Valeda therapy is appropriate for you.
- Treatment Series – Sessions are typically performed several times a week for three to four weeks.
- Follow-Up – Many patients benefit from periodic maintenance treatments to sustain the improvements.
You’ll be able to resume normal activities immediately after each session.
Schedule a consultation
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration, you don’t have to simply watch and wait. The Valeda Light Delivery System offers a safe, non-invasive approach that supports retinal health and may improve visual function.
Schedule a consultation today to see if Valeda photobiomodulation therapy is right for you.
👉 Call our office at (808) 245-8765