Dry AMD Treatment

Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision.

As the condition progresses, changes within the retina can gradually affect central vision, making everyday activities such as reading, driving, recognising faces and watching television more difficult.

Dry AMD is one of the leading causes of central vision loss in people over 50 and affects more than 700,000 people in the UK. While the condition can feel worrying, early diagnosis, regular monitoring and suitable treatment can help support long-term retinal health and visual function.

Dry AMD treatment is available at selected Optegra Eye Hospitals, including Central London and Manchester, with it coming soon to Bradford, Colchester, Surrey and Hampshire.

Our team can help you find your nearest participating clinic and discuss your suitability for treatment.

Dry AMD can affect central vision in different ways, and symptoms often develop gradually over time. Many patients notice subtle changes at first, which can become more noticeable as the condition progresses.

Photobiomodulation (PBM) is a non-invasive light-based treatment designed to support retinal cell function in patients with Dry AMD.

At Optegra, Dry AMD treatment uses gentle, carefully controlled medical-grade light to support the retinal cells involved in healthy vision. The light is delivered through a comfortable eye mask and is designed to stimulate the cells’ natural energy production, helping to support retinal health and function.

Unlike injections or surgery, PBM therapy is painless, non-invasive and requires no recovery time.

Historically, treatment options for Dry AMD have been limited. PBM therapy represents an emerging treatment approach designed to support retinal function and slow the impact of disease-related changes.

Clinical studies have demonstrated improvements in visual function, retinal structure and retinal blood flow following PBM treatment in suitable patients with intermediate Dry AMD.

Reported benefits include improvements in visual function, retinal structure and retinal blood flow, alongside reductions in drusen volume, a key feature of Dry AMD progression. While PBM therapy is not a cure, it may help preserve useful vision and support long-term retinal health when introduced at the appropriate stage of the condition.

PBM therapy may be suitable for patients who have been diagnosed with Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration by an eye care professional. It is most commonly considered for patients with early to intermediate Dry AMD, although every patient will be assessed individually.

The treatment is most appropriate for patients over 50 with a confirmed Dry AMD diagnosis, particularly those with early or intermediate Dry AMD. Both eyes can often be treated during the same session where appropriate.

At Optegra, suitability is confirmed through a comprehensive retinal assessment using advanced imaging technology and specialist consultant review. This helps us understand your eye health, stage of Dry AMD and whether PBM therapy may be appropriate for you.

PBM therapy may not be suitable for everyone. As a safety measure, treatment is not recommended for patients who have not had a formal Dry AMD diagnosis, or for those with known reactions to light exposure. It may also be unsuitable for people with light-triggered conditions, such as certain types of epilepsy or migraines triggered by light.

Patients taking photosensitising medication, those with active herpetic eye infection, dense cataracts that prevent clear retinal assessment, or known photosensitivity disorders may also need individual clinical review before treatment.

PBM therapy does not replace AREDS supplements where these have been recommended. Patients should continue taking supplements and following lifestyle advice provided by their eye care professional.

Your consultant will talk through your diagnosis, medical history and suitability in detail before recommending treatment.

PBM therapy is delivered through a series of short, comfortable treatment sessions using specialist light therapy technology. Most of the treatment is delivered with your eyes closed, and no pupil dilation, anaesthetic or coupling gel is required. Patients typically describe soft light and gentle warmth, with no pain.

A typical treatment programme will usually consist of two to three cycles with around nine sessions delivered within each cycle. The number of sessions and cycles you receive will depend on your tailored treatment plan.

Each session involves around 12 minutes of light delivery, with practical appointment time usually around 15 to 20 minutes once setup and positioning are included.

Treatment is painless, non-invasive and does not involve injections, surgery or recovery time. Most patients can return to their normal daily activities straight away.