Posted by: Northwest Eye in News, Retinal Health and Diseases on May 27, 2026
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration (dry AMD), you may have heard the frustrating phrase: “We’ll continue to monitor it.”
For years, treatment options for dry AMD were limited — often leaving patients with a “watch and wait” approach as vision gradually changed over time.
That is beginning to change.
Northwest Eye Clinic is proud to be the first practice in the Twin Cities metro area to offer Valeda™ Photobiomodulation (PBM), the first and only FDA-authorized treatment shown to improve and maintain vision in patients with early and intermediate dry AMD.
What Is Dry AMD?
Age-related macular degeneration is a common eye condition that affects the macula — the part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision. Dry AMD can make everyday activities like reading, driving, recognizing faces, and seeing fine detail more difficult.
AMD is one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults over age 50.
What Is Valeda™ PBM?
Valeda™ PBM is a noninvasive light-based treatment designed to support retinal cell health and improve visual function in patients with dry AMD.
The treatment uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate energy production within retinal cells. This process, called photobiomodulation, may help improve cellular function and retinal health.
Unlike many retinal treatments, Valeda is:
- Injection-free
- Surgery-free
- Dilation-free
- Anesthesia-free
What Results Have Been Seen?
In the LIGHTSITE III clinical trial, patients treated with Valeda experienced meaningful visual improvements over approximately two years. Study findings included:
- 84% of patients maintained or improved vision
- More than 60% achieved at least a one-line improvement on the eye chart
- Patients experienced an average visual acuity improvement that was maintained through 24 months
What Is the Treatment Experience Like?
One of the most appealing aspects of Valeda is how simple and comfortable the treatment experience is.
Treatment sessions are performed in-office and are quick and painless. Patients sit comfortably while the device delivers light therapy to each eye individually.
A treatment course typically consists of:
- 3 treatments per week
- For 3 consecutive weeks
- Repeated every 4 months as recommended by your retina specialist
There are no injections, needles, or recovery downtime.
Who May Be a Candidate?
Valeda is intended for patients with early to intermediate dry AMD who meet specific clinical criteria. Not every patient with AMD will qualify, so a comprehensive retinal evaluation is necessary to determine candidacy.
Patients with advanced or “wet” AMD may require different treatment approaches.
Why This Matters
For many dry AMD patients, this is the first time there has been an FDA-authorized treatment option shown to improve vision rather than simply monitor disease progression.
Northwest Eye Clinic is excited to bring this innovative technology to patients throughout the Twin Cities metro area and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Valeda™ PBM
- Does Valeda cure dry AMD? No. Valeda is not a cure for dry AMD, but it is designed to help improve and maintain vision and support retinal health in eligible patients.
- Is the treatment painful? No. Valeda treatments are noninvasive and painless. No injections, anesthesia, or surgery are involved.
- How long does each treatment take? Treatment sessions are relatively short and performed in-office.
- Will I need multiple treatments? Yes. Valeda therapy involves a series of treatments over time to achieve and maintain results.
- Is Valeda FDA approved? Valeda is the first and only FDA-authorized treatment for improving visual acuity in patients with early and intermediate dry AMD.
- Is this covered by insurance? Insurance coverage may vary. Our team can help review benefits and discuss financial considerations during your consultation.
- How do I know if I qualify? Our providers at Northwest Eye Clinic can perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether Valeda may be appropriate for your condition.
Schedule an Evaluation
If you have been diagnosed with dry AMD and want to learn whether Valeda™ PBM may be right for you, contact Northwest Eye Clinic at 763-416-7600 to schedule an evaluation with one of our retina specialists.
