Sight-saving technology hailed a ‘gamechanger’ by Leeds optician
Ground-breaking technology introduced by an independent optician in Leeds is helping to preserve patients’ eyesight by treating the world’s leading cause of irreversible blindness.
Simon Falk Eyecare in Roundhay has adopted the revolutionary Topcon Eye-Light system for managing and treating dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
The dry variant of the condition is a progressive eye disease affecting the macula, the part of the eye responsible for detailed vision.
It is the most common form of AMD, accounting for around 90 per cent of all cases, and can gradually lead to blurred central vision, difficulty recognising faces, and blind spots - significantly impacting independence and quality of life.
Optometrist at Simon Falk Eyecare, Leah Khan, works in local hospital settings within their Macular Degeneration Clinics and has seen first hand the devastating impact that dry AMD can have on people’s vision.
Knowing that there was something she could do to help, Leah advocated for this technology to be brought into practice to provide this support to the local community.
The new treatment at Simon Falk Eyecare uses a process called photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, a non-invasive light-based treatment designed to slow the progression of the condition.
By combining specific wavelengths of red and yellow light, the Eye-Light system stimulates cellular repair and supports tissue health in the eye.
Red light works to help cells produce energy, and reduce inflammation and cell damage, while yellow light may slow harmful blood vessel growth linked to wet age-related macular degeneration.
Patients undergoing treatment wear a specialist light mask during a quick, non-invasive session lasting about 12 minutes, with no injections or pupil dilation required, meaning patients are even able to drive home afterwards.
Leah commented on the importance of having this technology at the practice, saying: “This is a really exciting innovation within the optical industry and we’re really proud to be able to offer this to our patients and the wider community.
“With this game-changing technology, we’re able to treat the condition at the earliest possible stage, expanding the boundaries of eye care and allowing our patients to see better for longer.
“We’re hoping this will have a huge impact on those in the community who are suffering from AMD by helping to protect their independence and quality of life for as long as possible, as well as alleviating some of the pressure on the NHS.”
The practice also combines the treatment with advanced imaging and antioxidant screening technology, allowing the team to assess retinal health and tailor treatment plans to individual patients.
Photobiomodulation therapy is generally suitable for adults diagnosed with dry AMD at any stage, although earlier intervention can often provide the greatest opportunity for preserving vision and slowing disease progression.
As the only clinic locally to combine this range of advanced AMD assessment and treatment technology, the team at Simon Falk Eyecare hope the investment will improve access to innovative eyecare solutions for patients across Leeds and the surrounding area.
To find out more about Simon Falk Eyecare or to book an appointment, please visit www.falkleeds.co.uk