Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over age 60. For many years, patients diagnosed with dry AMD had limited options available beyond vitamins, monitoring, and healthy lifestyle changes.
What is the Valeda Light Delivery System?
- An FDA approved treatment that uses low-level light therapy, also called photobiomodulation (PBM) for certain patients with dry AMD.
- The therapy delivers 3 specific wavelengths of light to the retina:
1. 590 nm (Amber light)
2. 660 nm (Red light)
3. 850 nm (Near-infrared light)
How does the treatment work?
- The different wavelengths of light are believed to help retinal cells function more efficiently by supporting the mitochondria, the “energy centers” inside cells.
What should I expect during each treatment session?
- During each session, you sit comfortably in a chair and look into the device
- If you wear glasses or contact lenses, you will be asked to remove them prior to receiving treatment
- No needles or injections are involved with the treatment
- No dilation is needed for the treatment
- Light is delivered to the retina for several minutes (less than 5 min per eye)
How many treatments will I need?
- A standard treatment cycle consists of 3 treatments per week over a span of 3-5 weeks.
- Patients typically receive 3 cycles per year.
Who is a candidate for Valeda light therapy?
- Patients with intermediate dry age related macular degeneration
- Patients with visual symptoms secondary to AMD
- Patients with non central geographic atrophy
What are the potential benefits of treatment with Valeda light therapy?
Valeda light therapy is designed to help retinal cells function better. It is not considered a cure for AMD, and patients still require ongoing monitoring.
However, some potential benefits include:
- Improved visual acuity
- Better contrast sensitivity
- Improved reading ability
- Reduction in drusen volume (the deposits associated with AMD)
- Decrease in risk of progression to advanced dry AMD or geographic atrophy
Is Valeda therapy safe?
- Valeda therapy has a strong safety profile, and side effects are rare. Some patients may experience mild, temporary sensitivity to light following the treatment, but this usually resolves quickly.
Does Medicare cover Valeda light therapy?
- Medicare coverage for Valeda light therapy varies and is not universally guaranteed. Because Valeda is an FDA-authorized device-based treatment rather than a medication, coverage depends on individual Medicare plans and regional policy determinations.
- Some patients may have partial coverage under Medicare Part B if the treatment is deemed medically necessary. Others may have out-of-pocket costs depending on their supplemental insurance and specific plan details.
Am I a good candidate for Valeda light therapy?
- Schedule your visit with the doctors at Retina Associates of Florida to assess if you are a good candidate for treatment.