Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can gradually make reading, recognizing faces, and seeing fine details more difficult. For years, treatment options for dry AMD have largely focused on monitoring the condition, managing risk factors, and supporting remaining vision.
A newer option, Valeda light treatment, uses carefully controlled light to help improve visual function in eligible patients.
Understanding what Valeda does, who may benefit, and what to expect can help you discuss your options with a retina specialist.
What Is Valeda Light Treatment?
Valeda light treatment is a form of photobiomodulation (PBM), a non-invasive therapy that delivers specific wavelengths of visible and near-infrared light to the eye.
The treatment uses the Valeda Light Delivery System, which received FDA authorization in the United States in November 2024 for a defined group of patients with dry AMD.
It is intended to improve visual acuity in eligible patients who meet specific clinical criteria. Not everyone with dry AMD qualifies.
Unlike conventional retinal laser procedures, Valeda uses light energy in a different way. It does not aim to seal blood vessels or create controlled burns in retinal tissue.
Instead, photobiomodulation is designed to support cellular activity in the retina.
How Does Valeda Red Light Therapy Work?
The retina contains specialized cells that capture light and convert it into signals the brain interprets as vision. These cells rely on energy-producing processes to function properly.
Dry AMD affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision. As the condition progresses, retinal cells and the surrounding support tissue can become damaged.
Valeda red light therapy delivers multiple wavelengths of light, including amber, red, and near-infrared light. Photobiomodulation is thought to influence cellular energy processes and support retinal cell function.
The treatment does not replace retinal cells that have already been lost. Its purpose is to improve visual acuity in patients who meet the system's treatment criteria.
What Are the Potential Red Light Therapy Benefits for Eyes?
Research into photobiomodulation for dry AMD has reported improvements in visual acuity in some treated patients. However, individual results vary, and the treatment is not a cure for AMD.
Potential benefits for eligible patients may include:
- Improved visual acuity: Some patients may experience better clarity when reading an eye chart.
- Support for visual function: Treatment is designed to support the function of existing retinal cells.
- Non-invasive care: Valeda does not require injections, incisions, or surgery.
- Office-based sessions: Treatment is delivered in a clinical setting without a surgical recovery period.
Clinical studies have evaluated these outcomes, but results should not be interpreted as a guarantee that every patient will see better.
The response depends on factors such as the stage of AMD, retinal findings, and individual treatment eligibility.
Does Red Light Therapy Help Vision in Dry AMD?
It may help some patients. Clinical evidence from studies of the Valeda system has shown improvements in visual acuity among certain people with dry AMD.
These findings support its use for patients who meet the authorized treatment criteria.
However, red light therapy does not reliably restore vision for everyone, and it cannot reverse advanced retinal damage.
It is also important to distinguish the Valeda system from general-purpose red-light devices marketed for home use.
If you have dry AMD, a retina specialist can assess whether Valeda is an appropriate option based on your vision, retinal imaging, and stage of disease.
Who May Be Eligible for Valeda Treatment?
Valeda is not intended for every patient with macular degeneration. Under its US authorization, eligibility depends on specific findings, including visual acuity and the presence of certain retinal changes, such as medium or large drusen or non-central geographic atrophy.
Patients with neovascular, or wet, AMD or geographic atrophy involving the center of the macula do not meet the stated indication.
A retinal evaluation helps determine whether the condition falls within these criteria.
Our retina specialist may assess:
- The stage and type of AMD
- Central vision and visual acuity
- Retinal structure using imaging
- Whether other retinal conditions are present
- Relevant medical history and treatment considerations
If Valeda is not suitable, other management options may be more appropriate.
What Happens During Valeda Eye Treatment?
Valeda treatment is performed in the office and does not involve needles or surgery.
Before treatment, the retina specialist evaluates your eyes and reviews the imaging results to determine whether you qualify.
If treatment is appropriate, the clinical team explains the schedule and what to expect during each visit.
The device delivers controlled light to the eyes during a series of sessions. Treatment is generally painless. There is typically no surgical recovery period, and most patients can resume their usual activities afterward.
The schedule involves repeated sessions rather than a single visit.
Our care team will explain the recommended course and any follow-up examinations needed to monitor your vision.
Is Valeda the Same as Laser Treatment for Dry Macular Degeneration?
No. Although both use light, Valeda photobiomodulation and conventional retinal laser treatment work differently.
Valeda photobiomodulation delivers specific wavelengths of light to support visual function in eligible patients with dry AMD. It does not use the same tissue-targeting approach as conventional retinal laser procedures.
Retinal laser treatment uses focused laser energy for particular eye conditions. For example, it may be used to treat certain retinal tears or complications of diabetic retinopathy. It is not a standard treatment for dry AMD itself.
Valeda should therefore not be described as a conventional laser procedure. A retina specialist can explain which treatment, if any, is suitable for your specific condition.
If you have discomfort, blurred vision, or other eye symptoms, an eye examination can help identify the underlying cause.
Why Choose Dr. Paul Hahn at phRETINA?
Dr. Paul Hahn, MD, PhD, FASRS, is a board-certified, fellowship-trained retina specialist with extensive experience in retinal and macular care.
He has led more than 30 clinical trials and has over 100 publications in retinal disease treatment.
At phRETINA in Nanuet, NY, Dr. Hahn combines retinal imaging with evidence-based treatment and personalized care.
The practice serves patients throughout Rockland County, Bergen County, NJ, and nearby communities in Westchester County, NY.
Conclusion
Valeda light treatment offers a non-invasive option for certain patients with dry AMD. Clinical research has found improvements in visual acuity among some eligible patients, but results vary, and treatment cannot reverse retinal cells that have already been lost.
If you have dry AMD, a comprehensive retinal evaluation can help determine whether Valeda is appropriate for your condition and what other options may support your vision.
FAQs
- What is Valeda light treatment used for?
Valeda uses photobiomodulation to improve visual acuity in eligible patients with dry age-related macular degeneration. It is not intended for every stage or type of AMD. - Does Valeda red light therapy improve vision?
Clinical studies have reported improvements in visual acuity in some patients. However, individual results vary, and better vision is not guaranteed. - Is Valeda treatment painful?
Valeda treatment is generally painless and does not require injections or surgery. Some patients may notice the light during a session. - How is Valeda different from laser treatment?
Valeda uses photobiomodulation to deliver specific wavelengths of light to the eye. Conventional retinal laser treatment uses focused energy for different purposes, such as treating selected retinal tears. - Is red light therapy good for dry eyes?
Valeda is intended for eligible patients with dry AMD, not routine dry eye disease. Dry eye symptoms require a separate assessment and an appropriate treatment plan.