Older couple riding happily in a golf cart
At Kovach Eye Institute, we are committed to bringing advanced technology to our patients—especially when it has the potential to improve quality of life. We are proud to be one of the first in the Chicago area to offer the Valeda® Light Delivery System, a breakthrough new treatment option for individuals with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

What Is Valeda?

Valeda is the first and only FDA-authorized device to show improvement in visual function for patients with dry AMD during clinical studies. This non-invasive treatment uses a process known as photobiomodulation (PBM)—the application of specific wavelengths of light to stimulate cellular activity in the retina.

Valeda device at Kovach Eye

How It Works

The Valeda system delivers pulses of red, near-infrared, and yellow light to targeted areas of the retina. This light energy helps:

  • Support mitochondrial function to enhance energy production in retinal cells
  • Reduce oxidative stress and inflammation
  • Improve overall retinal performance in patients with dry AMD

The treatment is administered in a comfortable in-office setting and typically involves a series of sessions over several weeks.

Why This Matters

Dry AMD is a leading cause of vision changes in older adults, and until recently, treatment options have been extremely limited. Valeda represents an exciting step forward—offering a way to potentially slow the progression of the disease and preserve independence for longer.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with dry AMD, schedule an evaluation to find out whether Valeda light therapy may be right for you.