Millions of men and women are diagnosed with chronic dry eye syndrome each year. Many of these individuals use eyedrops or other treatments for temporary relief, but are unable to adequately address the root cause of their dry eye symptoms. Research in recent years has uncovered that 86% of evaporative dry eye cases are caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). When proper function of the meibomian glands is compromised, the lipid tear film necessary for maintaining eye moisture cannot be adequately produced, leading to rapid evaporation of tears and dry eye discomfort.
At Aloha Laser Vision, we offer treatment with the LipiFlow® system (created by TearScience®) to help patients with MGD reduce or eliminate their dry eye symptoms. LipiFlow® utilizes gentle heat and massage to stimulate the meibomian glands and release blockages to restore proper oil secretion.
If you suffer from chronic dry eye and struggle with finding relief, we encourage you to contact our practice to schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors. With the proper diagnosis, you may be a good candidate for treatment with LipiFlow®.
It is important for patients with dry eye to get evaluated for meibomian gland dysfunction before considering LipiFlow®. Diagnosis is determined by a series of tests which can include LipiView® tear film and gland imaging, as well as a meibomian gland evaluation. Based on the results of your evaluations, your eye doctor will determine the best course of action for treating your dry eyes. If gland blockages and diminished gland function are to blame, FDA-approved LipiFlow® may be the right treatment for removing gland obstructions and restoring normal gland activity.
During LipiFlow® therapy, the unique LipiFlow® Activator device applies mild heat and gentle massage to the inner eyelids with Vectored Thermal Pulse™ (VTP) technology while protecting the eye. The patented therapeutic process breaks up and releases deposits and obstructions from the meibomian glands to restore natural oil production. Treatment can be very quick and usually does not require any downtime for our patients. The majority of our patients report that their treatments are comfortable.
If you are interested in learning more about how LipiFlow® can provide relief from dry eye symptoms, contact Aloha Laser Vision today.