Millions of people all over the world suffer from eye irritation and pain as a result of a condition known as dry eye syndrome. Dry eyes can feel scratchy, cause sensitivity to light and make it difficult to wear contact lenses. After a while, these symptoms may start to interfere with daily life. And if left untreated, dry eye may lead to serious vision and eye health problems.
Fortunately, Dr. Ernest Kornmehl of Kornmehl Laser Eye Associatesoffers an FDA-approved treatment for dry eyes called LipiFlow. LipiFlow is a short, non-invasive and effective procedure that can deliver results that last up to one year.
How LipiFlow Works
LipiFlow addresses the most common cause of dry eye symptoms: meibomian gland disease, or MGD. The meibomian glands are responsible for producing oils or lipids that prevent tears from prematurely evaporating off the eye’s surface. If these glands become obstructed and dysfunctional, the composition of the tears lacks oil and they evaporate too quickly.
LipiFlow is designed to unblock the glands with a combination of heat and massage to restore the normal secretion of oil.
What to Expect During LipiFlow Treatment
LipiFlow treatment takes 12 minutes. Controlled heat is applied to the inside of the eyelids near the meibomian glands and the outer eyelids are gently massaged. This combination removes gland blockages and allows the glands to resume oil production.
Prior to LipiFlow treatment, your eyes will be numbed for your complete comfort. The area around your eyelids will also be cleaned.
To get started, you will relax in a comfortable recliner chair. The LipiFlow eye piece will be placed into your eyes, and you will be asked to close your eyes gently. As treatment starts, you might feel gentle sensations: warming, intermittent pulses and continual pressure. There are two six-minute cycles. None of this should be painful or uncomfortable. You can go home almost immediately after the procedure.
You may start feeling relief within a few days of treatment, with more noticeable improvement four to six weeks after treatment. The effects can continue to improve for up to one year. You will return for follow-up one month after treatment to check your progress.
Schedule a Consultation to Discuss LipiFlow
If you would like to learn more about how LipiFlow can reduce or eliminate painful dry eye symptoms, contact Kornmehl Laser Eye Associates and request a consultation. Call or email us today.