In 86% of dry eye cases, the underlying root cause is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), which is essentially a disruption of the tear glands in the eyelids. Currently, Lipiflow is the only FDA-approved treatment available to treat MGD. Schedule a dry eye consultation with our optometrists today to learn if Lipiflow is the right treatment for your dry eyes.
The procedure is done in just four simple steps:
- First, your eye doctor will use the LipiScan imaging device to examine your Meibomian glands. This will help your doctor make a diagnosis, which may involve additional testing.
- If it’s determined that you do have MGD, you can proceed with receiving the 12-minute LipiFlow treatment. Before it begins, your doctor will use numbing drops (the same ones routinely used at yearly eye exams) to help ease any potential discomfort from the procedure.
- Next, the system’s activators—dome-shaped, single-use sterile devices—are placed on your eyes. Their vaulted shape keeps your corneas protected during the treatment, which focuses on the inner eyelids, where the Meibomian glands are located.
- Using what’s called Vector Thermal Pulsation technology, the activators send heat into the glands inside your lids. This combination of heat plus pressure massages any blockages and liquefies and clears the obstructions that are causing your symptoms.
Studies show that while some patients experience some pain or discomfort from the procedure, the majority find it very tolerable.
Company Group Chairman, Johnson & Johnson Vision and Johnson & Johnson Diabetes Care Companies, who underwent LipiFlow herself.
And after it’s over? “You don’t have to worry about any impact to your vision—you can drive and do all your usual activities,” says Dr. Boorady.
Although many patients will see a change in symptoms right away, results generally optimize over six to eight weeks.