Dry Eye Treatment

Your Dry Eye Treatment Action Plan

Different diseases require different treatment. That is why, at In2Eyes, we create your Dry Eye Treatment Action Plan which is tailored to you. In some cases, the solution may be simple, while in others, you may require ongoing treatment. In any case, our goal is to always provide you with optimal care and relief from your symptomsof dry eyes.

We personalize the treatment plan depending upon the source of the problem.

Some cases require special treatment which can be done in house. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction will usually require gland expression (MGE) while Blepharitis can be treated with Blephex™ eyelid scrub.

MGD affects 86% with Dry Eye and it’s treatable.

In2Eyes is one of the few practices in Melbourne who provide IPL treatment as well as Lipiflow for evaporative dry eye eyes caused by MGD. MGD occurs when blockages in the Meibomian glands inhibit the natural production of protective oils which combine with the watery layer in our tear film to reduce evaporation. These oils are essential in preventing dry eye and, without them, our eyes become more prone to the symptoms of dry eye syndrome through prolonged computer use, reading, dry climates, air conditioning or other environments and activities which result in the evaporation of the tear film or reduced blinking.

The Anatomy of Tears

IPL

Some cases of Dry Eye Syndrome require treatment beyond standard heat therapy. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) therapy generates a polychromatic pulsed light by producing perfectly calibrated and homogenously sequenced light pulses.  The energy, spectrum, and time period are precisely set to stimulate the Meibomian glands in order for them to return their normal function. Stimulation with IPL leads to the Meibomian glands returning to their normal function in a very short time and you may feel the benefits within just a couple of hours following treatment. The decision to begin treatment with IPL will be discussed with your optometrist during your comprehensive dry eye assessment. Typically, IPL treatment requires several sessions and will be tailored to your requirements depending on the severity of your dry eye syndrome. For optimum results, three sessions are usually recommended. The positive effects of IPL treatment are cumulative. Improvement in Meibomian gland function after treatment with IPL will last for about a week after the initial treatment, two to three weeks after the second treatment, then from a two months onwards.In many cases many patients report relief from symptoms on the day of treatment. We will also provide you with appropriate at home treatment and ongoing lifestyle recommendations which should improve your overall eye health and reduce symptoms of Dry Eyes.

Lipiflow

In2Eyes is one of the few optometry clinics offering LipiFlow® for dry eye treatment caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction.  LipiFlow® is a relatively new technology which is designed to treat the root cause of Evaporative Dry Eye Syndrome. This advanced procedure treats the Meibomian Gland blockage directly by applying warm energy to the eyelid near the affected glands. The precise targeting of of these glands with vectored thermal pulsation (VTP) technology, and controlled, intermittent massage is performed in the consultation room by your optometrist.

Individually sealed devices called activators are  placed around the eyelids. A gentle “massaging” coupled with the precise delivery of heat is applied removing gland blockages and reactivating gland function. The treatment is designed so the eyeball is   completely protected. The effects of LipiFlow depend on the health of your gland structure and the extent of your MGD. Thus, results may vary with each patient. Some patients may notice results within weeks, while for others, it may take up to 90 days to notice results as the glands naturally begin to generate and expel necessary oil levels needed to properly protect the tear film. LipiFlow® may be recommended as part of your Dry Eye Treatment Action Plan: please speak to your optometrist during your comprehensive dry eye assessment to find out if LipiFlow® is right for you.

How We Help You Manage Dry Eyes

Click on the below infographic to see how we help you manage your dry eyes at In2Eyes Optometry. Feel free to download the image and share it with your friends and family.

Dry Eye Treatment

Dry Eye Syndrome caused by MGD is a disease that can be treated and the symptoms can be significantly reduced with proper clinical treatment, at home treatments and proper eye health care. At In2Eyes Optometry we utilise the latest technologies, such as Lipflow, IPL and Blephasteam to treat your dry eyes. For a comprehensive outline of Dry Eye Treatments available at In2Eyes, click here. As part of your comprehensive dry eye assessment, we will also advise you on supplements, at-home treatments as well as behavioural changes in order to help you reduce your dependency on eye drops and provide significant relief from symptoms of dry eye . A general outlineof some treatments and recommendations for Dry Eye Syndrome is as follows:

• Change of behavior: blinking more often (which can take a conscious effort!); quitting smoking; remaining hydrated
• Artificial Tears: eye drops, gels which lubricate the surface of the eye maintaining a constant lubricated film
• Avoiding dry environments: air conditioning, dry winds and even direct exposure to simple fans can dry out the surface of the eye
• Medications: consult your doctor about the medications you take as side effects may include drying the eyes. There may be alternatives
• Blephasteam: The Blephasteam® device is convenient, safe, and allows clear vision during use, allowing you to carry out normal task activities such as reading, watching television or playing on your smartphone. We administer Blephasteam treatment in our Surrey Hills Clinic for Dry Eyes patients.
• Supplements: specialty formulation supplement called Lacritec–a proprietary blend of omega fatty acids which supports healthy tear film & reduces inflammation
• Antibacterial Eye Wipes: Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) is caused by bacteria which can be controlled using eye wipes to clean around the eyelids. These are most beneficial when used in conjunction with eye drops
• Antibacterial ointments: in more severe cases of Blepharitis we may recommend antibacterial ointments or tablets
• Punctal plugs: tiny, biocompatible devices inserted into tear ducts to block drainage to increase the eye’s tear film and surface moisture
• Surgery: only in severe cases surgery is considered in consultation with your GP and Opthamologist

Blephadex In Melbourne

Blephadex products are highly effective for managing blepharitis and symptoms associated with dry eye. By eliminating bacteria on the lids, Blephadex wipes and scrubs ensure the eyes do not become irritated. As part of our dry eye treatment at our Surrey Hills clinic, we offer aftercare in the form of Blephadex wipes and scrubs. If you have been looking to manage your dry eyes, Surrey Hills’ In2Eyes can help. We are proud to offer Blephadex to Melbourne locals looking to maintain hygienic, bacteria-free eyelids for their overall eye health. Visit our clinic today or call us to find out how Blephadex products can help you.

References:

1. Optometry Australia Association
2. Lacritec
3. Better Health: “Dry Eyes”

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. In2Eyes has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Please consult our optometrists, or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.