What is Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a primary cause of vision impairment in seniors. This condition impacts the macula—the area of the retina that manages the clear, central vision necessary for tasks like driving and reading. The progression of dry AMD is typically categorized into three distinct stages.
Stage 1: Early AMD
Small yellow deposits called drusen form under the retina. As they accumulate, they can interfere with the function of the retina and lead to thinning and atrophy of macular tissue. There is typically no vision loss.
Stage 2: Intermediate AMD
Larger drusen and/or pigment changes in the retina; some vision changes may be noticeable.
Stage 3: Advanced AMD
Advanced dry AMD can cause retinal cells to deteriorate and may result in cellular death, leading to geographic atrophy and permanent vision loss.
Is there a cure to Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)?
While a definitive cure for macular degeneration has not yet been found, research into new therapies is ongoing. Standard care for dry AMD typically involves slowing vision loss through over-the-counter medicine, like AREDS2 vitamins.
However, Valley Eye Associates is proud to offer a breakthrough: the first FDA-authorized treatment proven to actively improve visual function for those living with dry AMD. It’s important to remember that while these options aren’t a cure, they offer significant hope. By starting treatment early, many patients are able to regain lost vision and protect their sight from worsening over time through ongoing management.
What is Valeda?
Valeda is a light-based therapy that utilizes photobiomodulation (PBM) to stimulate cellular energy production within the eye. By promoting healthier cell function, this treatment has been proven to reduce drusen—the yellow protein deposits that form beneath the retina—while effectively slowing the progression of dry AMD.
Valeda represents a breakthrough in eye care as the first FDA-authorized, non-invasive treatment. This painless therapy allows patients to remain comfortable while enhancing their overall visual function without the need for injections.
What does the treatment schedule look like?
Valeda is a light-based therapy that is performed through multiple sessions over a few weeks. Most patients complete a series of 9 treatment sessions over 3-5 weeks. After the initial series, follow-up treatments are typically scheduled every 4 months for maintenance.
Is Valeda right for you?
Ideal Valeda candidates are patients who have been diagnosed with early-to-intermediate Dry AMD that have vision impairment. It is important to note that the stage of your condition—whether early, intermediate, or advanced—can influence the overall effectiveness of the therapy. Our doctors will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine if this treatment is the right fit for you.
Starting treatment in the earlier stages often provides the greatest opportunity to protect and enhance your visual function
*Valeda is not recommended for individuals with Wet AMD or advanced central macula atrophy.
Schedule an Evaluation Today
If you or someone you know is dealing with Dry AMD, contact us to schedule an appointment to see if Valeda could help.
