Dry Eye Therapy

Dry eye syndrome has become increasingly prevalent in today’s fast-paced digital age, affecting millions of people worldwide. Factors such as excessive screen time, environmental stressors, and aging contribute to this condition, leading to discomfort, irritation, and diminished quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment of dry eye are crucial, as prolonged symptoms can result in more severe eye problems that can impact daily activities. Effective management options are available, tailored to the underlying cause of the dry eye.

Lubricating eye drops can offer temporary relief and may be effective in mild cases of dry eye; however, they often serve only as a bandaid to the problem. When dry eye begins to impact your daily comfort, you may be a good candidate for a more targeted treatment.

Here are some advanced treatments:

  • Meibomian Gland Expression is an in-office therapy that improves the flow of oils that lubricate the eyes. The meibomian glands produce oil that coats the surface of the eye and prevents the evaporation of tears. Over time, these glands can become blocked, leading to dry, red, and irritated eyes. Meibomian Gland Expression can help clear the blockages, allowing the oils to flow freely again. It involves applying heat to the meibomian glands for about 10 minutes, followed by manual compression to clear the obstructions.

  • Intense Pulse Light Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses high-intensity light to address various skin and eye conditions. The light generated by IPL helps to reduce inflammation and promote the function of meibomian glands. The process takes around 30 minutes, and typically requires multiple sessions for optimal results. Patients often report improvement in dry eye symptoms, increased comfort, and better overall eye health following the therapy. An additional benefit of IPL is that it can address skin-related issues like redness and pigmentation.