Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common eye condition, affecting up to 50% of the population.
It occurs when the quantity or quality of the tears is compromised, and the eyes are unable to receive the nourishment and protection they need to remain healthy and hydrated.
While there are a number of conditions that can lead to DES, approximately 80% of dry eye cases are caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
The meibomian glands are the oil-secreting glands that line the upper and lower eyelids. These tiny glands produce the oil (meibum) that makes up the lipid layer of the tear film — an essential layer responsible for preventing rapid tear evaporation.
Meibomian gland dysfunction occurs when these tiny glands become blocked or clogged with thick secretions, preventing the normal flow of oil into the tear film and affecting the quality and quantity of the tears.
MGD can occur due to a buildup of debris or eye makeup, as well as blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) and demodex mite infestations.
Meibomian gland dysfunction produces a range of symptoms, including:
Inmode Radiofrequency and IPL is an FDA approved, therapeutic dry eye treatment that has been proven effective in treating dry eyes resulting from MGD.
This specialized treatment uses gentle heat generated energy to open the clogged meibomian glands and improve oil flow — resulting in improved tear film quality and quantity and the elimination or lessening of dry eye symptoms.
The RF and IPL treatments are quick and painless in-office procedure that offers immediate symptom relief.
During the treatment, you will be asked to close your eyes as your eye doctor gently massages your upper eyelid and the skin underneath your lower eyelid with a specialized heat generating tool.
This heat triggers collagen formation in the skin around the eyes to reduce the inflammation that may be contributing to your MGD symptoms.
The RF and IPL treatment is beneficial for chronic MGD, as it facilitates effective meibomian gland expression, tightens the collagen in the skin around the eyes to reduce inflammation, and stimulates the collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin for longer-lasting treatment results.
If you or a loved one is suffering from chronic dry eyes, schedule an eye exam to determine whether MGD is causing your symptoms.
Our practice uses Inmode RF and IPL to help patients with MGD achieve optimal results and longer-lasting symptom relief.
If you wish to learn more about these effective treatments, and to find out whether you could benefit, contact Luxe Vision and Optical today!
Our practice serves patients from Powell, Lewis Center, Delaware, and Columbus, Ohio and surrounding communities.