Exciting New Light-Based Treatment for
Dry Macular Degeneration

Valeda is a cutting-edge, non-invasive light therapy for patients with Dry Macular Degeneration

Dry age-related macular degeneration, also known as dry AMD, can gradually affect the central vision you rely on for reading, recognizing faces, driving, and completing everyday activities. Although every patient’s experience is different, changes in central vision can make it increasingly difficult to see fine details clearly. At our practice, we are committed to offering advanced treatment options that may help eligible patients protect and improve their vision. This is the first treatment available for dry AMD that was shown in clinical studies to both maintain and actually improve patients’ vision by an average of one line on the standard Snellen eye chart.

The Valeda Light Delivery System is an FDA-authorized, non-invasive treatment for certain patients with early to intermediate stage dry AMD. Valeda uses photobiomodulation, a form of light therapy that delivers specific wavelengths of amber, red, and near-infrared light to the eye. This light is designed to support cellular activity within the retina and improve the way retinal cells produce and use energy. The treatment does not involve injections, incisions, or surgery.

Treatment is performed comfortably in our office and takes approximately five minutes per eye. A typical treatment course includes nine appointments, usually completed over three to five weeks. A total of 3 treatment courses must be completed by the end of 24 months. Because dry AMD can vary significantly from one person to another, our eye-care team will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether Valeda is appropriate for you. We will explain the treatment process, discuss potential benefits and risks, and create a personalized plan based on the health of your eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Valeda Light Delivery System?

Valeda is an FDA-approved, office-based treatment for certain patients with dry age-related macular degeneration. It uses carefully selected wavelengths of light to deliver photobiomodulation therapy to the eyes.

How does Valeda work?

Valeda delivers amber, red, and near-infrared light to the eye. These wavelengths are intended to support cellular function and energy production within the retina. Healthy cellular energy is important because the retinal cells responsible for vision require a significant amount of energy to function properly.

Who may be a candidate for Valeda treatment?

Valeda is intended for certain patients with dry AMD who meet specific vision and retinal-health requirements. It is not intended for patients with wet AMD or center-involving geographic atrophy. A comprehensive eye examination and retinal imaging are needed to determine whether you are an appropriate candidate.

What happens during a treatment session?

You will sit in front of the Valeda device and rest your chin and forehead against the supports, similar to other instruments used during an eye examination. The device will guide you through periods when your eye is open and closed while the different wavelengths of light are delivered. A trained member of our team will remain with you and monitor the treatment.

How long does each treatment take?

The light treatment takes approximately 5 minutes per eye. Please allow additional time for check-in, preparation, and any examinations or imaging that may be performed during your appointment.

How many treatments will I need?

A standard treatment series consists of nine sessions, generally scheduled three times per week over a period of three to five weeks. A total of three courses is recommended over the course of 24 months, but the doctor will tailor your treatment based on your clinical response.

Does the treatment involve injections or surgery?

No. The Valeda treatment itself is non-invasive and does not involve injections, incisions, anesthesia, or surgery. It is performed while you are seated comfortably in the office.

Will my eyes need to be dilated?

The Valeda light treatment itself does not require dilation. However, your doctor may dilate your eyes during your initial evaluation or follow-up visits to examine your retina and monitor your condition.

What results can I expect?

Results vary from patient to patient, and improvement cannot be guaranteed. In the clinical information reviewed by the FDA, patients receiving Valeda treatment had an average improvement in visual acuity of approximately one line on an eye chart after about two years compared with patients who did not receive the treatment. Your doctor will discuss realistic expectations based on the severity and characteristics of your dry AMD.

Is Valeda a cure for dry AMD?

No. Valeda is not described as a cure for dry AMD, and it cannot restore retinal tissue that has already been permanently damaged. It is a treatment intended to improve visual acuity in appropriately selected patients. Continued eye examinations and monitoring remain an important part of managing dry AMD.

Are there risks or side effects?

As with any medical treatment, Valeda may not be appropriate for everyone. Temporary visual afterimages, warmth around the treatment area, eye discomfort, or headache may occur. Your doctor will review the potential benefits, risks, precautions, and alternative options with you before treatment.

Patients with certain light sensitivities, light-activated neurological conditions, or recent use of photosensitizing medications may not be eligible. Be sure to provide your doctor with a complete list of medications, supplements, eye conditions, and medical conditions.

Can Valeda be used for wet macular degeneration?

Valeda’s FDA-authorized indication does not include wet, or neovascular, AMD. Patients with wet AMD should continue the treatment and monitoring plan recommended by their retina specialist.

Will insurance cover Valeda treatment?

Insurance coverage varies by plan and may change over time. Our office can discuss current pricing, payment options, and any available insurance information before you begin treatment.

How will my progress be monitored?

Your doctor may use vision testing, retinal imaging, and comprehensive eye examinations to monitor your eyes before, during, and after treatment. It is important to attend all recommended follow-up visits and contact our office promptly if you notice sudden distortion, new blind spots, flashes, floaters, or a rapid change in vision.

How do I get started?

The first step is to schedule a comprehensive Valeda evaluation. Our eyecare team will review your vision, examine your retina, and determine whether you meet the treatment criteria. We will then answer your questions and explain the recommended schedule, cost, and next steps.

Important Safety Information

Valeda is a prescription medical device intended for appropriately selected patients with dry age-related macular degeneration. Treatment results vary, and not every patient will experience improved vision. Valeda should not be used in patients with known sensitivity to yellow, red, or near-infrared light or a history of light-activated neurological disorders unless specifically evaluated and cleared by their physician. Patients who use photosensitizing medications or products should discuss them with their doctor before treatment.

The information on this page is educational and is not a substitute for an examination, diagnosis, or personalized medical advice from a qualified eye-care professional.