Macular Degeneration

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Valeda Light Therapy for Dry Macular Degeneration

For the first time, there's an FDA-authorized treatment shown to improve vision in dry AMD. Called Valeda, this gentle light therapy takes just a few minutes per session and is now available at West Virginia Eye Consultants in Charleston and Beckley.

Request an Appointment Call (304) 343-3937

No surgery

No needles

FDA-authorized

What is Valeda?

A Non-surgical, Light-Based Treatment for Dry AMD

Valeda is the first and only treatment authorized by the FDA for patients with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that has been shown to improve vision.

Valeda uses precise wavelengths of light delivered painlessly to the eye during an in office treatment. There are no needles and no incisions. You sit comfortably at the device while it does the work, and a full session takes only a few minutes per eye.

Valeda represents a significant advancement for people with dry AMD who previously had limited treatment options. While it is not a cure for dry AMD, for many patients it offers something that wasn't possible before, a chance to improve and help maintain their vision.

Understanding the Condition

What is Dry Macular Degeneration?

Macular Degeneration affects the macula, which is a small part of the retina responsible for the sharp, straight-ahead vision you use to read, drive, and recognize faces. Dry AMD is the most common form, and it tends to progress gradually through three stages.

Early: Small deposits called drusen form beneath the retina. Most people notice no change in vision at this stage.

Intermediate: Drusen grow in size and number. Some people notice subtle changes, while others still have no obvious symptoms.

Advanced: Vision loss can develop, including from the breakdown of central retinal cells (geographic atrophy).

Symptoms to Watch For

The earlier dry AMD is found and monitored, the more options you have. If you notice these symptoms, or have a family history of macular degeneration.

It’s important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam to ensure your vision and eyes stay healthy.

Wavy lines

Straight lines appear bent or distorted

Central blur

A blurry or blank spot in the middle of your vision

Faded color

Colors look washed out or dull

Low-light trouble

Harder to see at night or in dim rooms

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How it Works

The Science of Photobiomodulation

As the eye ages, the cells responsible for vision can become stressed and less efficient. Valeda uses a process called photobiomodulation (PBM), which delivers specific wavelengths of light that help retinal cells function more effectively.

Light is delivered
Valeda applies multiple specific wavelengths of light to the eye, gently and painlessly.

Cells absorb the energy
Retinal cells take in this light energy at the cellular level.

Cell function is supported
That energy helps stimulate the cells' own ability to function, supporting overall retinal health.

The Evidence

Backed by the LIGHTSITE III Clinical Trial

Valeda's FDA authorization is grounded in LIGHTSITE III trial, which compared Valeda against a placebo treatment in patients with dry AMD.

Photobiomodulation has a long, well-tolerated safety record across medicine. Individual results vary; not every patient is a candidate, and outcomes depend on the stage of disease. Your doctor will review whether Valeda is appropriate for you.

1st

The first FDA-authorized treatment for dry AMD that has been shown to improve vision.

+5 letters

Average gain on the eye chart in treated eyes, about one line of vision.

24 mo

Visual improvements were maintained across the two-year study period.

More 1/2

Of treated eyes gained 5 or more letters on the eye chart in the trial.

Before

No special preparation is needed. If you wear glasses or contacts, you'll remove them.

During

You sit comfortably at the device while a team member guides each step. One eye takes under 5 minutes; both eyes under 10.

After

You can resume normal activities right away. You may briefly notice an afterimage, like looking at a bright light, which fades within minutes.

The Experience

What Happens During Valeda Treatment?

Valeda is designed to be simple and comfortable. Here's what a typical treatment looks like.

The recommended protocol is about 9 sessions over a span of 3 to 5 weeks. From there, your doctor will let you know if and when follow-up cycles are needed, building a plan around your eyes and your response to treatment.

Candidacy

Is Valeda Right For You?

Valeda is intended for patients diagnosed with dry AMD by an eye doctor. The stage of your AMD can affect how much benefit you may see, which is why an evaluation is the essential first step.

Valeda may be a good option if you:

Valeda may not be appropriate if you:

Have a confirmed diagnosis of dry (non-neovascular) AMD

Have a known sensitivity or reaction to light exposure

Are looking for a non-surgical, non-injection approach

Have a history of light-triggered conditions such as epilepsy or migraine

Want to be proactive about preserving your central vision

Have recently used light-sensitizing medications (discuss timing with your physician)

The only way to know for certain is an evaluation. Our doctors will review your diagnosis, history, and goals, and give you a direct answer about whether Valeda makes sense for you.

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Why West Virginia Eye Consultants

Advanced AMD Care, Close to Home

Since 2010, West Virginia Eye Consultants has provided trusted, state-of-the-art eye care across the region. Bringing Valeda to our Charleston and Beckley locations means West Virginians no longer have to travel far, or settle for "watch and wait", to access one of the newest options in dry AMD care.

"Best in the Valley" — multiple years

Recognized locally for the care our patients receive.

15+ years serving West Virginia

Ophthalmologists and optometrists under one roof.

Two convenient locations for Valeda Treatment

Valeda offered in both Charleston and Beckley.

Meet Our Doctors

Cost & Insurance

The Cost of Valeda Treatment

Because Valeda is a newer therapy, insurance coverage is still evolving and varies from plan to plan, and many patients pay out of pocket today. We believe in being upfront about this. During your evaluation, our team will walk you through what to expect for your specific situation and answer your cost questions before you commit to anything.

Common Questions

Valeda: Frequently Asked Questions

Less than 5 minutes per eye, and under 10 minutes for both eyes.

No. Valeda is non-invasive and painless. There are no needles, no incisions, no surgery. You simply sit at the device while light is delivered to your eyes.

No. Dilation is not required for Valeda treatment.

The recommended protocol is a series of sessions about 3 times per week for 3 to 4 weeks, repeated periodically over time. Your doctor will tailor the schedule to you.

Usually, yes. Cataracts alone don’t prevent Valeda treatment. But if a cataract is advanced enough to blur your vision or interfere with retinal imaging, your doctor may recommend treating it first. Your evaluation will sort out the best order.

Photobiomodulation has a long, well-tolerated safety record, and Valeda was shown to be safe in clinical studies. You may briefly see an afterimage right after treatment, similar to looking at a bright light, which fades within a few minutes.

West Virginia Eye Consultants offers Valeda at our Charleston and Beckley locations.

Take the next step

A New Option for Dry AMD Is Within Reach

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dry AMD, the first step is a simple evaluation to find out whether Valeda is right for you.

Request an Appointment Call (304) 343-3937