Macular Degeneration Treatment

The Valeda Light Delivery System is the first approved treatment for Dry Age-related Macular Degeneration

Have you been diagnosed with early to mid-stage dry age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) ?

Concerned about maintaining your independence—whether it’s driving, working, or enjoying your retirement? Burman and Zuckerbrod is excited to introduce the first approved Light Delivery treatment, Photobiomodulation, for Dry AMD.

Dry AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) can lead to the deterioration or death of retinal cells, causing vision loss. Valeda uses targeted light wavelengths to stimulate energy production in these cells, promoting healthier retinal function. Healthy retinal cells are crucial for maintaining good vision.

While there’s no cure for dry AMD, early treatment can help. Once retinal cells are lost, a permanent scar called geographic atrophy forms, leading to irreversible vision loss. Detecting dry AMD early is key. With Valeda, your doctor can begin managing retinal health and vision loss sooner, potentially improving vision and preserving long-term benefits.

There are two main types: dry AMD and wet AMD.

Dry Macular Degeneration

Dry AMD is the most common form of macular degeneration, accounting for about 80–90% of cases.
It occurs when cells in the macula gradually break down over time. Small yellow deposits called drusen may develop under the retina, and the macula can become thinner.

Dry AMD usually progresses slowly over years. In early stages, vision may be only mildly affected. In more advanced stages, central vision can become more significantly impaired.

While there is no cure for dry AMD, certain vitamin supplements, healthy lifestyle choices, and regular monitoring can help slow progression in some patients. In certain patients, photobiomodulation (PBM) may be an option to help improve vision.

Wet Macular Degeneration

Wet AMD is less common but more serious. It develops when abnormal blood vessels grow underneath the macula. These vessels can leak fluid or blood, causing rapid changes to the retina.
Wet AMD can progress quickly. However, modern treatments have dramatically improved outcomes.
Treatment typically involves injections of medication into the eye to stop the abnormal blood vessel growth and reduce bleeding. When detected early and treated promptly, many patients maintain useful vision.

Not smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in leafy greens, managing blood pressure, and protecting your eyes from UV light may help reduce your risk.

Personalized Care for Macular Degeneration
Although AMD cannot be reversed, early diagnosis and modern treatments allow many patients to preserve functional vision for years. Our goal is to detect changes early, slow progression, and provide timely treatment when needed.

If you have concerns about your central vision or a family history of macular degeneration, we encourage you to schedule an evaluation.
Valeda Light Therapy for Dry Macular Degeneration
Burman & Zuckerbrod Ophthalmology Associates, P.C. is proud to offer the Valeda Light Delivery System, a non-invasive treatment designed to help preserve vision in certain patients with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

What Is Valeda Light Delivery System?

Valeda Light Delivery System uses a technology called photobiomodulation (PBM). This treatment delivers specific wavelengths of light to the retina and is thought to stimulate cellular energy production and improve retinal function.

The goal of treatment is to support the health of retinal cells, potentially improving vision in certain patients

Valeda is FDA-authorized for use in certain patients with dry AMD.

How Does Valeda Work?
In dry AMD, retinal cells can become stressed and less efficient at producing the energy they need to function properly. PBM therapy is thought to work by:

  • Stimulating mitochondrial activity (the “energy centers” of cells)
  • Improving cellular metabolism
  • Supporting overall retinal health

Treatment is performed in the office and is:

  • Non-invasive
  • Painless
  • No injections
  • No surgery
  • No downtime

Patients sit comfortably at the device while light is delivered to the eyes over a series of brief treatment sessions.

Treatment is typically delivered through a series of sessions over several weeks, repeated several times each year. Your doctor will recommend a customized treatment schedule based upon your unique needs.

Who May Benefit from Valeda?
Valeda is designed for patients with early to intermediate dry AMD.

In the past, treatments for dry macular degeneration were limited. Valeda offers advancements in treatment for select patients.

If you have been diagnosed with dry AMD and would like to learn whether Valeda may be appropriate for you, we invite you to call us today.

Syfovre for Advanced Dry Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Burman & Zuckerbrod Ophthalmology Associates, P.C. offers Syfovre, an innovative treatment option for patients with geographic atrophy, an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Syfovre is designed to help slow the progression and preserve vision for as long as possible.

Wondering if Syfovre might be an option for you?
Syfovre may be an option if:

  • You have been diagnosed with geographic atrophy, an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration.
  • Are looking for an FDA-approved treatment specifically targeting geographic atrophy progression
  • Are comfortable with ongoing, in-office injection treatments as part of your routine care

Why consider treatment?
Geographic atrophy can progressively impact independence and quality of life. Early intervention with Syfovre may maintain functional vision longer.
Our doctors will carefully evaluate your condition and discuss whether Syfovre is appropriate for you, including potential benefits, risks, and treatment schedule.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment with one of our board-certified surgeons to see if you are a candidate for the Valeda Light Delivery System.

3 Convenient Locations To Better Serve You!

 

Bloomfield Hills
43996 Woodward Ave, Ste 101
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Phone: 248-332-4544
Map & Directions

Detroit
14400 West McNichols Road
Detroit, MI 48235
Phone: 313-341-3450
Map & Directions

Westland
7992 North Wayne Road
Westland, MI 48185
Phone: 734-522-6131
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Hospital & Surgery Center Affiliations

Should you require surgery, our board certified ophthalmologists are affiliated with the following hospitals:

  • Cataract Specialty Surgery Center – Berkley
  • Detroit Medical Center - Berry Surgery Center
  • LASER Institute of Michigan

Information For New Patients

Please note that a complete eye examination may take up to two hours. A trained ophthalmic tech will do a preliminary screening and take a complete health history. The examination will be done entirely by one of our board certified ophthalmologists who may recommend additional testing based on his/her findings. When you come to your appointment please remember to bring eye glasses or contact lenses if you wear them, a complete list of your current medications, the name of your physician who may have referred you to us so that we may send a prompt written report to maintain continuity of care, a driver’s license for identification purposes, all current insurance information and a referral form if applicable.

Insurance and Payments

In order to keep our costs down, payment is expected at the time that services are rendered. You will be responsible for co-pays, deductibles, and fees not covered by your insurance. We accept cash, check, VISA, Discover, American Express, and CareCredit. Our billing associates will be glad to assist you. Please note that it is your responsibility to know the terms of your insurance benefits. We are participating providers for most of the current health insurance plans.

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