Treatment of dry age-related macular degeneration with Valeda from Lumithera

Athens EyeCare Clinic is proud to introduce Lumithera’s Valeda – an innovative treatment for dry age-related macular degeneration.

Valeda is one of the first of its kind in Athens, using advanced photobiomodulation (PBM) to improve visual function and maintain eye health.

What is age-related macular degeneration?

Dry age-related macular degeneration is one of the most common causes of irreversible vision loss in the elderly. It affects the macula — the neuro-sensory centre of clear vision — causing gradual destruction of the photoreceptors, and leads to progressive difficulty with reading. Until recently, there was no approved intervention for the dry form of the condition. Lumithera’s Valeda treatment introduces a new, non-invasive approach, offering hope of slowing progression and improving vision.

The condition progresses slowly but steadily. In its dry form, it is characterised by the accumulation of deposits (drusen) under the retina, which disrupt the normal functioning of the cells in the area. If not treated in time, it can lead to irreversible loss of central vision. Until recently, treating the dry form was one of the most challenging problems in ophthalmology.

Photobiomodulation technology with Lumithera's Valeda

The modern answer to the treatment of the dry form of age-related macular degeneration is photobiomodulation (PBM), a technique that uses light of specific wavelengths to activate cellular mechanisms. Lumithera’s Valeda Light Delivery System is the world’s first approved device for dry macular degeneration treatment.

The device emits blue, red and infrared light, which reaches deep into the retina. These wavelengths:

• Enhance the mitochondrial function of cells.
• Improve local blood supply and oxygen transport.
• Reduce oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions.
• Promote the repair of damage under the retina.
• Help improve vision and delay the progression of the disease.

The treatment is delivered in 9 short sessions within three weeks. It causes no pain, requires no anaesthesia and involves no recovery time, so patients can resume their daily activities immediately.

Treatment with Lumithera's Valeda: Scientific data and FDA approval

The effectiveness of Valeda treatment is documented in numerous multi-centre clinical studies. Over a period of two years, participants showed a clear improvement in vision and a stabilisation of the progression of age-related macular degeneration. The researchers also found a reduced rate of development of geographic atrophy, which marked a significant scientific advance.

In 2023, the device received official approval from the FDA (the US Food and Drug Administration). This is the first time that a non-invasive photobiomodulation technology has been used so systematically in the treatment of dry age-related macular degeneration. The approval was based on documented safety and the repeatability of results.

Valeda treatment is now being integrated into treatment protocols internationally, offering patients a reliable option that changes the prognosis of the condition.

Lumithera’s Valeda Treatment: Advantages

This new treatment has several advantages over traditional methods:

• It does not require any medication or injection into the eye.
• It is safe and painless for all patients.
• It can be repeated without causing damage to the tissues.
• It works at the cellular level, enhancing the eye’s natural regenerative capacity.
• It improves functional results without surgery.

Notably, in several cases the improvement in vision remains stable for months after the treatment is completed. Patients report a better quality of life, greater autonomy and increased self-confidence in their daily lives.

Which patients can benefit from the treatment?

Treatment of the dry form is indicated mainly for people with early or intermediate dry age-related macular degeneration. It can also be applied in cases of mild geographic atrophy, before the central visual field is completely lost.

Suitability for treatment is determined by the attending ophthalmologist after a complete examination, which includes macular OCT and digital fundus photography. The protocol is not indicated for patients with wet-type macular degeneration or severe macular lesions.

The patient’s cooperation, regular follow-up visits and consistency throughout the process are decisive factors in the long-term success of the treatment.

Lumithera Treatment: A New Era in Preventing Vision Loss

Lumithera’s photobiomodulation (PBM) technology is not simply another option — it represents a new philosophy in the approach to macular degeneration. Instead of waiting for the condition to worsen, it makes it possible to intervene in time and strengthen the retina’s natural defences.

Early intervention with Valeda offers the possibility of preventing vision loss before it develops into disability. The treatment does not replace other medical interventions; rather, it acts as a complementary and protective measure, especially in the early stages of the disease.

Its wide margin of safety, the simplicity of the procedure and its effectiveness set new standards of care for ophthalmology patients.

Why choose Athens EyeCare Clinic?

We are one of the first clinics in Athens to offer Valeda treatment, with a highly trained team dedicated to providing the best possible care.

Our practice is built on scientific excellence, compassion and technological innovation, ensuring that you receive the highest level of care.

Summary:

Dry age-related macular degeneration is a challenging condition, but Valeda offers new hope.

The Athens EyeCare Clinic is at the forefront of innovation, helping people with dry age-related macular degeneration maintain their vision and independence.