LipiFlow for Dry Eye
Dry eye is more than an inconvenience. Dry eye is a disease.
Many people suffer for years from the discomfort of dry eye disease. While many over-the-counter dry eye solutions can offer temporary relief, it doesn’t treat the cause. LipiFlow thermal pulsation system improves dry eye symptoms by treating meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
Meibomian gland dysfunction is a common cause of dry eye. In the US, research found that 59% of studied patients had at least one symptom of MGD. Research also shows up to 69% of Asian populations in Thailand, Japan, and China have MGD.
Golden Vision in Arcadia, Cupertino, Dublin, Irvine, Milpitas, Rowland Heights, San Francisco, San Gabriel, and San Diego Plaza offers LipiFlow treatment to help improve meibomian gland function so you can enjoy long-term dry eye relief.
We offer free dry eye consultations. Contact us today to see if you’re a good candidate for LipiFlow!
What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is when oil glands in the eyelids, called the meibomian glands are unable to function effectively. Meibomian glands line the edge of the eyelids near the eyelashes. There are approximately 25–40 meibomian glands lining the upper eyelid, with 20–30 lining the lower eyelid.
When the meibomian glands are blocked, it changes the tear composition which causes tears to evaporate too quickly. MGD can lead to multiple symptoms associated with dry eye, including blurry vision, eye irritation, and light sensitivity.
Patients may also develop additional eye problems, including:
- Blepharitis: eyelid inflammation with mild to severe symptoms
- Chalazion: a swollen eyelid gland
- Hordeolum (stye): a pus-filled lump caused by an infected oil gland
What Causes MGD?
MGD is caused by anatomical changes in the Meibomian glands If left untreated, MGD can become progressively worse over time.
Conditions that can contribute to MGD include:
- Computer & digital device use
- Contact lens wear
- Allergies
- Eye infections
- Doing near work like reading or watching TV
- Eye surgery
- Eye conditions like glaucoma
- Environmental factors & climate
- Poor blinking
- Medications
- Makeup that can clog glands
How LipiFlow Works
For patients with MGD, TearScience LipiFlow significantly improves meibomian gland secretions and ocular surface symptoms, including dry eye and blurry vision.
The LipiFlow thermal pulsation system applies heat to the eyelids, melting the oil (meibum) inside the glands. Simultaneously, gentle pressure massages oil from the meibomian glands. As a result, the blocked oil can flow freely, improving gland function and improving tear quality.
The treatment is a non-invasive procedure performed in the comfort of your doctor’s office. Typically, treatment sessions last 12 minutes. Anesthetic eye drops are applied for patient comfort, but otherwise, no medication is required for LipiFlow treatment.
With LipiFlow, one treatment may be effective in improving meibomian gland function. Patients can experience relief from dry eye symptoms for up to 3 years.
Discover Lasting Relief
LipiFlow can provide lasting relief for dry eye symptoms caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. When over-the-counter products and home remedies don’t provide the relief you deserve, talk to your eye doctor at Golden Vision Optometry. We can determine if you’re a good candidate for LipiFlow or other dry eye solutions.
Don’t live with dry eye! Text us to book an appointment today.
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