Posted by: Dr. Ramsarat in Dry Eye, LipiFlow
Dry eye is a common condition in the U.S. and worldwide which affects the ability of the eyes to keep moist and lubricated. It is most common in people older than 50, but anyone may experience symptoms. One of the most common causes of dry eye is unstable tears, typically due to meibomian gland dysfunction.
Several treatments are available for meibomian gland dysfunction, one of which is popular: LipiFlow®. It is a novel invention that helps provide long-term relief for MGD and restore tear film balance.
What Is LipiFlow?
Invented by Dr. Korb and his associates at Tear Science, LipiFlow is a treatment device for treating MGD in dry eye patients. It is specially designed to relieve blocked meibomian glands. It has become so effective in treating this condition that most eye doctors consider LipiFlow the standard MGD treatment.
The device comes with an activator, a sterile single-use device, and a console. It operates based on Vectored Thermal Pulsation technology. The console sends pulses of heat through the eyelids into the glands through this tech.
How Does LipiFlow Work?
LipiFlow works on addressing the root cause of dry eye syndrome from MGD.
By sending heat pulses to the glands through the eyelids, the device helps unblock the meibomian glands. Moreover, the device gently massages the eyelids while applying the pulses. The double action works effectively to ease the blockages out of the glands.
After a session, the glands will resume their function almost immediately. Most patients will start to feel the changes and see the difference a few days after the treatment. Others may take a few weeks to have any significant changes. The time it takes to see the results depends on how severe the MGD is.
What Is MGD?
MGD, or meibomian gland dysfunction, is a common condition that causes dry eye. It is when the meibomian glands in the eyelid become blocked by thick oils or impurities. These stop the glands from producing the oily layer of the tear film.
The Tear Film
The tear film is made up of three primary layers, the oily layer, the aqueous layer, and the mucus layer.
The Oily Layer
The meibomian glands produce this layer of the tear film, which is the top layer. It helps protect the other layers from evaporation and keeps the eye’s surface lubricated.
The Aqueous Layer
The aqueous layer is also the most abundant of the three layers. It comprises mainly water and is very light. It is produced in the lacrimal glands, commonly known as the tear glands. The aqueous layer is the one we see when we cry.
Mucus Layer
It is the bottom part of the tear film and helps keep the tears on the eye’s surface. It helps spread the entire tear film throughout the eye’s surface.
What Are The Benefits Of LipiFlow For MGD?
- LipiFlow offers long-lasting relief from MGD, unlike other dry eye treatments.
- The treatment is painless and very comfortable. Most patients describe it as a warm and gentle massage on the eyelids.
- The treatment takes only about 12 minutes a session. You need several sessions for effective results.
For More On LipiFlow As A Dry Eye Treatment, Visit Dr. Veronica Ramsarat OD At Our Office In New York, New York. Call (833) 255-0096 To Book An Appointment Today.
