Valeda™ Red Light Therapy: A New Option for Dry Macular Degeneration

For years, patients diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD) had limited treatment options beyond monitoring, vitamins, and lifestyle changes. Now, new technology is bringing hope to patients looking to preserve vision earlier in the disease process.

At Wagner Kapoor Institute, we are excited to offer Valeda™ Light Delivery System, the first FDA-authorized light therapy treatment for dry AMD.

This innovative treatment uses photobiomodulation (PBM) — also known as red light therapy — to support retinal cell function and potentially improve visual performance in patients with dry macular degeneration.

What Is Dry Macular Degeneration?

Dry AMD is a common retinal condition that affects the macula, the part of the retina responsible for central vision. Patients with dry AMD may notice:

• Blurred central vision
• Difficulty reading
• Trouble recognizing faces
• Distorted or dim vision
• Increased difficulty seeing in low light

Dry AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over 60.

What Is Valeda™ Red Light Therapy?

Valeda™ uses specific wavelengths of red, yellow, and near-infrared light to stimulate retinal cells. This process, called photobiomodulation, is designed to improve cellular energy production and reduce stress within retinal tissue.

Unlike injections or surgery, Valeda™ is:

• Non-invasive
• Painless
• Performed in-office
• Quick and comfortable

Treatment sessions are typically completed over several weeks.

How Does Red Light Therapy Work?

The retina requires a large amount of energy to function properly. In dry AMD, retinal cells can become damaged over time due to aging and oxidative stress.

Photobiomodulation aims to support retinal health by:

• Improving mitochondrial function
• Increasing cellular energy production
• Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress
• Supporting retinal cell survival

Clinical studies have shown improvements in visual function and retinal anatomy in certain dry AMD patients treated with Valeda™.

Who May Benefit from Valeda™?

Valeda™ may be appropriate for patients with:

• Early dry AMD
• Intermediate dry AMD
• Visual symptoms affecting reading or daily tasks

A comprehensive retinal evaluation is necessary to determine candidacy.

At Wagner Kapoor Institute, our retina specialists use advanced retinal imaging and diagnostic testing to personalize treatment recommendations.

Why Early Treatment Matters

Many patients wait until vision loss becomes severe before seeking treatment. But with dry AMD, earlier intervention may help preserve vision longer.

That’s why regular retinal exams are so important, especially for adults over 50.

Symptoms like blurry central vision, distortion, or difficulty reading should never be ignored.

Advanced Retina Care in the Mid-Atlantic Region

Wagner Kapoor Institute proudly serves patients throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region with advanced retina, glaucoma, and ophthalmology care.

As technology evolves, we remain committed to bringing innovative treatments like Valeda™ to patients seeking the latest options for preserving vision and quality of life.

Author

Kapil G. Kapoor, MD, FACS, FICS, FASRS Dr. Kapil G. Kapoor, is a board certified ophthalmologist specializing in vitreoretinal surgery. He is Co-Founder and President of the Wagner Kapoor Research Institute which has been actively engaged in over 75 clinical trials, often one of the only sites in the region offering sight-saving treatment. He has been passionately involved in ophthalmology research as part of his mission to deliver the best care possible to his patients. With over a decade’s experience in the field, Dr. Kapoor is a progressive leader in the healthcare space.