Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can cause various symptoms, including discomfort, redness, itching, and blurred vision. Several factors, including age, environmental conditions, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions, can cause dry eye.
Symptoms and Signs of Dry Eye
- Dry, gritty, or burning eyes
- Redness and irritation
- Sensitivity to light
- Watery eyes (paradoxical tearing)
- Difficulty wearing contact lenses
- Blurred vision
What to Expect During an Exam for Dry Eye
We will perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the cause of your dry eye and to recommend the best treatment options for you. The exam may include:
- A visual acuity test
- A slit-lamp exam to examine your eyes for signs of dryness or damage
- A tear film evaluation to measure the quality and quantity of your tears
Treatment Options for Dry Eye
There are several different treatment options available for dry eye, depending on the severity of your condition and the underlying cause. Treatment options may include:
- Artificial tears: Artificial tears can help to lubricate the eyes and reduce the symptoms of dry eye.
- Eyelid scrubs and warm compresses: Eyelid scrubs and warm compresses can help to remove debris from the eyelids and unclog the meibomian glands, which produce the oily layer of the tear film.
- Prescription medications: Prescription medication helps reduce inflammation and improve the quality of the tear film.
- Lipiflow: Lipiflow offers a gentle and innovative approach to clearing obstructions in the meibomian glands, promoting improved eye health.
Lipiflow: A Breakthrough for Dry Eye Relief
Lipiflow is a minimally invasive procedure that helps to unclog the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of the tear film. When the meibomian glands are clogged, the tear film can evaporate too quickly, leading to dry eye.
The Lipiflow procedure is generally well-tolerated and has a high success rate.
What to Expect During the Lipiflow Procedure
- Your eye doctor will ask you to lie on a comfortable chair and relax.
- We will clean your eyelids, and a topical anesthetic will be applied to numb the area.
- We will place a disposable eyepiece over each eye.
- The Lipiflow device will apply gentle heat and pressure to your eyelids for about 12 minutes.
- The procedure is generally painless, and most patients experience a feeling of warmth around the eyes.
The Cost of Lipiflow
The cost of Lipiflow varies depending on the location of the practice and the patient's insurance coverage. However, insurance typically covers Lipiflow.
The Timeline for Lipiflow Treatment
Most patients experience relief from their dry eye symptoms within a few days of the Lipiflow procedure.
Long-term Results with Lipiflow
Lipiflow is a safe and effective treatment for dry eye. Most patients experience significant relief from their symptoms after the Lipiflow procedure. The results of Lipiflow treatment are typically long-lasting. Still, some patients may need to repeat the procedure every 6-12 months to maintain their results.
Lipiflow may be a promising treatment option if you suffer from dry eye. Schedule an appointment with Clearvue Vision Center to learn more about Lipiflow and see if it suits you.
