OptiLight IPL in Greater Montreal for dry eye and ocular rosacea

At CARE Clinic, the optometrist first evaluates the cause of your symptoms — such as blocked glands, inflammation, or rosacea — and then discusses whether Opti Light IPL is appropriate for your situation.
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How Opti Light IPL targets inflammation, Meibomian glands, and Demodex

IPL acts in three ways at once: on the vessels that sustain inflammation, on blocked eyelid glands, and on Demodex mites at the base of the lashes.

01

Action principale

Light targets small dilated blood vessels around the eyes and on the cheeks. These carry inflammation to the eyelids and maintain redness in rosacea.

02

Effet thermique

The heat released by each pulse liquefies the oil that has solidified in the eyelid glands. The manual expression following the session helps to release it afterward.

03

Associated benefit

IPL decreases the population of Demodex, the microscopic parasites that live at the base of eyelashes and irritate the eyelids in many patients with rosacea or blepharitis.

Are you a candidate for IPL Opti Light for dry eye, rosacea, or blepharitis?

If you have any of these conditions and standard treatments are no longer enough, IPL Opti Light may be an option for you.
Meibomian Glands (MGD)
Isotretinoin-related dry eye
Sjögren's syndrome
Chalazion or stye

For which types of dry eye, rosacea, or blepharitis is IPL Opti Light recommended?

There are several clinical indications, mainly related to ongoing inflammation around the eyes. An assessment will determine what applies in your case.

Confirmed evaporative dry eye based on prior optometric assessment

Phototype I to IV (Fitzpatrick classification)

Adults 18 years and older

Persistent symptoms despite 6 or more weeks of basic care

No recent eye surgery (at least 3 months)

When IPL Opti Light is not an option

Certain situations make this treatment unsuitable, sometimes temporarily. These are always checked before every session.

Skin phototype V or VI — risk of pigment changes.

Pregnancy or breastfeeding

Active skin lesions on the treatment area— such as eczema, active herpes, or an open wound.

Drug-induced photosensitivity — such as with recent oral retinoids, doxycycline, or certain antidepressants.

Active autoimmune disease affecting the periocular skin.

What happens during an Opti Light IPL session at Experience Care

Three distinct phases for a consistent experience.

01

Before the session

A preliminary optometric evaluation confirms eligibility. On the day of the session, avoid makeup on the eyelids.

  • Preliminary in-clinic evaluation
  • No makeup on the day of the session
  • Eyelid photos for comparative follow-up
  • Photosensitivity questionnaire
02

During the session

Application of a conductive gel and placement of metallic eye shields. Four to six pulses per side, brief sensation of warmth.

  • Gel and metallic eye shields applied by the nurse
  • 4 to 6 pulses per side
  • Brief, warm sensation — generally well tolerated
03

After the session

A warm sensation may be felt 30 to 60 minutes afterward. Most patients can resume normal activities immediately.

  • Manual gland expression by the optometrist immediately afterward
  • Daily hydration and SPF 50 · 7 days
  • Avoid direct sun exposure · 2 weeks
  • Immediate resumption of normal activities
  • Next session in 2 to 3 weeks according to the protocol
THE CARE EXPERIENCE
Beyond treatments, we offer care rooted in listening and empathy. Each patient is unique, and our greatest satisfaction is restoring the comfort you thought you had lost.
An approach appreciated by our patients. Rated 5.0/5 on Google.

Who performs your Opti Light IPL session at Experience Care?

Karine Charbonneau — Infirmière clinicienne, spécialiste sécheresse oculaire à la Clinique CARE
Karine Charbonneau
Clinical Nurse

A registered nurse trained in pediatrics at Sainte-Justine Hospital, Karine Charbonneau later specialized in the dry eye clinic. Recognized by her patients for her gentleness, patience, and attentiveness, she supports each individual with precision and care, from the first appointment to long-term follow-up.

Carolane Lavigne
Nurse

With an approach that combines Softness, Transparency and Great Meticulousness, Carolane ensures that each patient immediately feels confident and safe.

Its objective is simple: to make your care experience as comfortable as it is effective.

With a rich nursing experience that began in 2014, Carolane has enriched her expertise with a background in Medical Aesthetic Treatments To offer you the most recent protocols.

Passionate about improving the quality of life, she is entirely dedicated to supporting you with listening and professionalism throughout your career at the CARE clinic.

Dre. Francesca Olinga
Optometrist

An optometrist and founder of the CARE Clinic, Dr. Francesca Olinga understands dry eye because she has experienced it. Experienced in the management of complex cases (neuropathic pain, demodex, chalazions), she uses innovation and attentive listening to guide you toward improved eye comfort.

FAQS
Is Opti Light IPL painful?

Each pulse produces a brief sensation of warmth, similar to a light snap of an elastic band on the skin. Most patients find it quite tolerable, and no anesthesia is needed.

How many sessions are needed to see results?

The standard protocol is 3 to 4 sessions spaced 2 to 3 weeks apart. Most patients notice improvement after the second or third session. The optometrist then recommends maintenance treatments every 6 months to 1 year depending on your needs.

Are there any side effects?

Mild redness or sensitivity may appear after the session and typically fades within the day. For 24 to 72 hours following treatment, avoid direct sun exposure and irritating skincare products (such as retinol, acids, or topical vitamin C).

Is Opti Light IPL approved by Health Canada?

Yes. Lumenis Opti Light is the first— and currently the only— IPL approved by Health Canada for dry eye caused by Meibomian gland dysfunction.

How much does a session cost?

The cost varies depending on the personalized protocol established after your initial assessment. Please contact CARE Clinic for current pricing.