Universities across Australia and New Zealand are integrating advanced dry eye therapies into their optometry courses, and providing students with practical experience by investing in light modulation low-level light therapy (LLLT).

Ophthalmopro has spent the past six months installing the Espansione Eye-light device, and training lecturers and academics at Flinders University, University of New South Wales, University of Melbourne, Deakin University, Australian College of Optometry (ACO), and University of Auckland.

The Eye-light is a two-in-one device, enabling light modulation LLLT and / or intense pulsed light therapy (IPL). Light modulation LLLT is a photobiomodulation technology for treating anterior segment conditions including meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) / dry eye disease (DED), chalazion, and Sjögren’s syndrome. IPL also treats MGD, DED, blepharitis, and rosacea.

Tristan Parker, Director of Sales at Ophthalmopro, said “there’s no doubt that IPL works, however, it can take three sessions before patients notice a difference, which can result in patient drop off ”.

“The therapy can contribute to immediate relief by liquefying the meibum via endogenous heat, as well as increasing tear volume and tear meniscus height, helping patients with aqueous deficient dry eye.”

With no need for face gel, Mr Parker said students are “excited” to learn how to use the non-invasive therapeutic device, while patients often comment on their symptomatic relief, likening it to a “spa-like treatment”.

TRAINING IN GOLD STANDARD CARE

The Dry Eye Disease Clinic within ACO Eye Health acquired the Eye-light device in late 2025.

Varny Ganesalingam, the Clinic’s Manager, Cornea and Dry Eye Services, told mivision she investigated advanced dry eye therapies for some time prior to acquiring the Eye-light. “I had been leaning towards an IPL system, but I realised that low-level light therapy would suit our clinic’s patient demographic better because it can be used to treat the full spectrum of skin types,” she explained.

Ease of use within a busy clinic – where patient numbers are high and teachers are often accompanied by students – was also a consideration.

“We’ve only had the device since November, so we’ve been feeling our way, but we hope to employ students as technicians, which will free up the clinicians to see more people in each clinic,” she said.

While ACO Eye Health is currently only using the Eye-light for LLLT, Ms Ganesalingam hopes to add IPL in the future.

“The latest research I’m reading indicates that a combination of IPL and LLLT can be really beneficial to patients with recalcitrant dry eye disease. Once we do this, we’ll have the full gamut, which I think is just what I want in a reputable dry eye service that’s being run out of ACO Eye Health.”

“Students come to us on rotation, and they are with us when we are working up the patients, following DEWS III recommendations, and using a comprehensive diagnostic suite. By using Oculus K5 to take images for diagnosis pre- and post-treatment, students see the evidence behind our clinical decisions and patients understand and engage in their treatment plan.”

EVALUATION AND RESEARCH

University of Auckland installed the Eye-light in its Dry Eye Specialty Clinic in February. Dr Marcy Tong, optometrist and Professional Teaching Fellow at University of Auckland’s School of Optometry and Vision Science said after trialling LLT “the positive outcomes reinforced its value”.

“Incorporating LLLT aligns with our commitment to teaching gold standard practice to the students and offering a comprehensive range of treatment options.

“Overall, LLLT has been very well received and has significantly enhanced patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes,” said Dr Tong. “Patients have observed high levels of comfort during treatment, noticeable improvement in ocular moisture immediately afterward, and meaningful reductions in symptoms, including improved comfort and reduced pain scores.” Additionally, she said they had expressed their relief “when LLLT provides an alternative to gland expression, which some patients find uncomfortable”.

As well as receiving formal training on advanced dry eye therapies, Dr Tong said optometry students are gaining hands on clinical teaching, by being involved with patient communication and education, treatment delivery, and follow-up care.

The School is preparing to formally evaluate pre-and post-treatment data. Additionally, a clinical trial is underway with the University’s Ocular Surface Laboratory specialised research unit evaluating the impact of LLLT using red versus blue wavelengths on eyelid haemodynamics and the periocular microbiome, alongside conventional ocular surface assessments in patients with dry eye disease and blepharitis.