Do you have Dry Eyes?
Dry eye can cause a variety of symptoms, including: burning, stinging, tearing, sandy/gritty sensation, fluctuations in vision, contact lens discomfort and/or redness.
Did you know? Most dry eye symptoms are not caused by your eyes inability to make tears, but instead are related to a condition called “Meibomian Gland Dysfunction” or MGD.
Meibomian glands are found in the upper and lower eyelids. These glands release oils each time you blink which help to stabilize your tears and prevent them from evaporating too quickly. The dysfunction of these glands usually occurs when these glands become “clogged” from a number of causes; not blinking enough (usually from large amounts of screen time), poor lid hygiene, aging and medications, to name a few.
How do you treat Meibomian Gland Dysfunction/MGD?
LipiFlow is the only electronic device cleared by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of MGD with clinical studies to demonstrate safety and effectiveness.
What is LipiFlow?
LipiFlow is a non-invasive, non-surgical 12-minute procedure that uses Thermal Pulsation technology to apply precise heat to the inner eyelids with a gentle massage to the outer lids to remove gland blockage.
This procedure is superior to at-home warm compresses for a number of reasons:
- Its ability to apply heat to the inner part of the eyelids
- Its ability to heat the glands to a higher temperature than your traditional eye mask or warm washcloth
- It adds a simultaneous pulsation to remove the blockage as the glands heat up
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does LipiFlow hurt?
No! LipiFlow is a painless procedure. We use a mild numbing drop prior to the procedure to help even more with comfort. You will essentially be relaxing with your eyes closed for the procedure. Bring headphones and enjoy some music while you’re being treated!
Can I drive home after LipiFlow?
Yes! As mentioned before, only numbing drops will be used. These do NOT alter your vision.
Should I remove makeup before the procedure?
Yes! This makes the procedure more effective and easier for you!
Can I wear my contact lenses after the procedure?
It is up to you. We usually recommend bringing your glasses as this may be more comfortable after the procedure. However, wearing your contact lenses afterward will not “hurt” anything either. You will be asked to remove your contact lenses prior to the procedure.
Will I need to use eye drops after LipiFlow?
Yes. Initially after the procedure, you will need to continue lubricating drops/artificial tears and any prescription strength dry eye drops you were already prescribed. We also recommend continuing at home warm compresses to prolong the effects of the treatment.
How long does the treatment last?
Studies conducted show on average, the effects of LipiFlow last for 18 months.
Can I use FSA/HSA dollars?
Yes.
Is there any follow up needed after the procedure?
Yes. We usually request to follow up anywhere between 3-6 weeks.