Patient Education
Valeda Light Therapy
In-office · about 5 minutes per eye, 3 sessions a week for 3 weeks
Valeda is an FDA-authorized, noninvasive treatment for certain patients with dry age-related macular degeneration. It uses specific wavelengths of visible and near-infrared light — an approach called photobiomodulation — to support the function of retinal cells that are stressed by the disease.
Valeda is an FDA-authorized, noninvasive treatment for certain patients with dry age-related macular degeneration. It uses specific wavelengths of visible and near-infrared light — an approach called photobiomodulation — to support the function of retinal cells that are stressed by the disease. There are no injections and no surgery. Valeda is not a cure and does not reverse damage already done, but in appropriate candidates it may help support or maintain vision over time.
What It Treats
What to Expect
Before
Your retina specialist reviews your exam and imaging to decide whether you are a candidate. Not every patient with dry AMD is — the decision depends on the stage of disease and what your retina looks like on OCT and other imaging. No dilation or numbing is needed for the treatment itself.
During
You rest your chin and forehead against the device and look at a target while it delivers a short sequence of light. Each eye takes only a few minutes. Nothing touches your eye, nothing is injected, and there is no pain — most patients simply see colored light.
After
You can go straight back to your day. There is no blurring, no soreness, and no recovery period, so most patients drive themselves home.
Recovery & Restrictions
- There are no restrictions after a session — no driving limits, no activity limits, nothing to avoid.
- Treatment is given as a series: typically three sessions a week for three weeks, making up one course.
- Courses are repeated periodically, generally a few times a year, to maintain the effect.
- The benefit is measured on imaging and vision testing over months, not felt immediately after a session.
- Keep up the rest of your AMD care alongside it — AREDS-2 supplements if recommended, not smoking, monitoring with an Amsler grid, and regular follow-up.
Risks & Side Effects
A well-tolerated treatment
Valeda is noninvasive and side effects are uncommon. Most patients complete a full course without difficulty.
Temporary light sensitivity
Some patients notice mild glare or an afterimage briefly following a session, which passes quickly.
It does not restore lost vision
Photobiomodulation aims to support retinal cells that are still functioning. Vision already lost to atrophy does not come back.
It does not replace monitoring
Dry AMD can convert to the wet form at any time. New distortion, a new dark spot, or a drop in vision needs prompt evaluation regardless of whether you are receiving Valeda.
Every procedure carries risk, and this list is not exhaustive. Your doctor will discuss the risks that apply to your eye and your circumstances before you decide.