Photobiomodulation light therapy (treatment for dry macular degeneration) in Southend

Private treatment for dry macular degeneration at Southend Private Hospital in Essex

In dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cells in the macula, in the centre of the retina, typically progressively degenerate. Photobiomodulation (PBM) Light Therapy is a new treatment for dry macular degeneration which is non-invasive and painless. Specific, low-intensity wavelengths of light are used to target and stimulate cells in the macula. 

Southend Private Hospital is the only provider of this treatment in Essex. Book now for fast access to the only FDA-approved treatment for Dry AMD. 

What is photobiomodulation light therapy?

Photobiomodulation Light Therapy is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (Dry AMD). This non-invasive and painless therapy uses precise, low-intensity wavelengths of light with an aim of:

• Stimulating cellular repair and regeneration in the retina, slowing down the death of these cells 
• Stimulating mitochondria in the retina improving cell functionality 
• Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress which are key factors in AMD progression 

PBM Light Therapy is suitable for those with Dry AMD, particularly those in the early to intermediate stages as this treatment is designed to slow down vision loss and help retain vision for patients.

What is Dry AMD?

Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease that affects the macula, which is the central part of the retina. This condition affects a person's central vision, distorting what you are directly looking at rather that what is seen in your peripheral vision. Your central vision is essential for detailed vision; thus, impacting activities such as driving, reading and recognising faces.

Key facts about Dry AMD

Dry AMD is the most common form of AMD and accounts for about 85% of all cases.

Loss of vision with this disease gradually progresses over several years.

The primary risk factor for dry AMD is age, typically affecting those aged over 50. Other risk factors include smoking (people who regularly smoke are four times more likely to develop dry AMD), genetic history, high blood pressure and obesity.

Common symptoms of dry AMD

Blurred central vision: A blurry or smudged area in the centre of your vision

Difficulty seeing details: Trouble reading small print or recognizing faces

Distorted straight lines: Straight lines, like door frames, may look wavy, bent, or crooked

Gaps or dark spots: Patches may appear in your vision

Why is early detection important?

There is no cure for dry AMD, it is a slow progressing disease where retinal cells are lost leading to vision loss. Early diagnosis is vital, so that vision loss can be managed earlier, aiding patients to retain vision for longer.

How much does PBM light therapy cost?

Treatment course for Photobiomodulation Light Therapy is £5995

The package includes 3 cycles of 9 sessions, as well as 3 check-ins with your consultant throughout treatment.

What to expect at your initial consultation with a retinal specialist consultant ophthalmologist

At your initial consultation, we will conduct:

• A full ophthalmic examination
• A visual assessment
• Retinal imaging 
• An OCT scan

Your initial consultation will be separate to your treatment course. Once we have the results of your examination and scans, your consultant will confirm whether PBM light therapy is suitable for you. If so, we’ll confirm the price in writing, before booking you in for your light therapy sessions.

What happens during PBM light therapy treatment?

Photobiomodulation treatment for dry AMD is run in three cycles over one year.

For each cycle, a patient should receive nine sessions across a period of three to five weeks. These light therapy sessions should take approximately 5 minutes per eye.

There is no need for any drops during the treatment visits. Recovery from PBM light therapy is generally immediate with patients experiencing temporary afterimages that fade in minutes, allowing you to return to normal activities within approximately 15 minutes

Why choose Southend Private Hospital for your macular degeneration treatment in Essex?

Southend Private Hospital was rated outstanding by the most recent Care Quality Commission (CQC), one of only 87 hospitals in the UK to receive this rating. At Southend Private Hospital we prioritise safety, comfort, and clinical excellence, because our patients come first. 

We’re proud to be the first provider of photobiomodulation light therapy in Essex for dry age-related macular degeneration (Dry AMD).

How to book PBM light therapy in Southend, Essex

To book a consultation to discuss PBM light therapy for dry macular degeneration with an ophthalmologist near you, use our online booking system, or give us a call and one of our advisors will help you find an appointment at a time that suits you.