Valeda Photobiomodulation for Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration

The first retina practice in Simi Valley to offer Valeda photobiomodulation

Simi Valley Retina Specialists now offers Valeda® photobiomodulation (PBM), an FDA-authorized, noninvasive light-based treatment designed to improve visual acuity in eligible patients with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Call (805) 694-9663 to schedule a dry AMD evaluation

  • Photobiomodulation, or PBM, uses specific wavelengths of low-intensity light rather than a surgical laser. The Valeda Light Delivery System delivers amber, red, and near-infrared light to the eye. These wavelengths are intended to influence cellular processes involved in retinal function, including mitochondrial activity and cellular energy production.

    Treatment is performed in the office and does not require an injection or surgery.

  • Valeda is FDA-authorized for certain patients with dry age-related macular degeneration.

    A retinal examination and imaging are necessary to determine whether treatment is appropriate for an individual patient.

  • A Valeda treatment session uses a sequence of amber, red, and near-infrared light while the patient alternately keeps the treated eye open and closed. The light-delivery portion of treatment for each eye takes approximately four minutes.

    A treatment series consists of nine treatment sessions over approximately three to five weeks. Your retina specialist will determine whether additional treatment series are appropriate based on your examination and clinical course.

  • Valeda was evaluated in a randomized, sham-controlled U.S. clinical trial in patients with dry AMD. Based on the FDA-authorized indication, after approximately two years of treatment, patients receiving Valeda had an average improvement of approximately one line of visual acuity compared with patients who did not receive the active treatment.

    Individual results vary. Valeda is not a cure for AMD, and treatment cannot restore retinal cells that have already been permanently lost.

  • Valeda is noninvasive and does not involve an injection or surgical procedure. As with any medical treatment, it is not appropriate for everyone.

    Patients with known sensitivity to yellow, red, or near-infrared light, certain light-activated neurologic conditions, or recent use of some photosensitizing medications may not be candidates.

  • Insurance coverage for retinal photobiomodulation varies by health plan. Our office can review available coverage information and discuss anticipated out-of-pocket costs before beginning a treatment series.

  • The first step is a retinal evaluation to determine the type and stage of macular degeneration and whether your eye meets the criteria for treatment.

    Call Simi Valley Retina Specialists at (805) 694-9663 to schedule an evaluation.