Do you ever feel like you have sand in your eyes? Do they look red, itch, water, or burn? Do you sometimes feel a twinge of pain that is followed by tearing or feel like you always need to rub your eyes?
If you have experienced any of these symptoms, there is a good chance you have some level of dry eye disease. Dry eye is one of the most common eye conditions in the United States, especially nowadays with our consistent device use!
Dry eye disease is much more complex than just an irritated feeling, it is truly a chronic and progressive disease that can cause permanent damage if left untreated. Since 86% of dry eye patients have meibomian gland dysfunction, our in-office treatments are primarily focused on these glands.
Meibomian glands are found along all four eyelids and are responsible for providing the oil layer of the tear film. This oil is called meibum. If meibum does not disperse properly, the tear film will evaporate too quickly, causing dry eyes.
Fortunately, there are many dry eye treatment options available.
At Look East, we are proud to offer some of the most advanced in-office treatments available in the Nashville area!
Forma System IPL
Intense Pulsed Light Therapy, or IPL, is a procedure that thins out the meibum using pulses of light. The heat from the light melts the oil, making it easier for it to exit the meibomian glands and enter the tear film. IPL also functions to reduce eyelid inflammation and abnormal blood vessel growth, creating healthier glands and less lid redness. This also leads to improved appearance of the skin around the eyes and face. The recommended course for this therapy is 4 initial treatments that are spread out every 2-4 weeks and maintenance treatment is recommended every 6-12 months.
Low Light Level Treatment (LLLT)
Low Light Level Treatment, or LLLT, uses a near-infrared LED light to melt the oil within the meibomian glands. This treatment is typically combined with IPL to achieve maximum results.
Radiofrequency, or RF, is a process that works very similarly to IPL, however it uses heat created by high-frequency electrical currents to warm the inner layer of the skin and melt the meibum. This heat stimulates the production of collagen, which can also help with wrinkles, fine lines and bags under the eyes.
Amniotic membranes are another in-office treatment used in cases of severe dry eye. These human stem cell tissues are ethically obtained and undergo a rigorous approval process to be used as a membrane. The membrane is placed onto the surface of the eye and functions as a protective barrier to help facilitate healing and rejuvenate corneal health to help prevent further damage from dryness.
Other treatments we might recommend to compliment our in-office procedures may include professional grade biologic eye drops such as Regener-Eyes, or a nasal spray specifically designed for dry eye disease, called Tyrvaya. Rest assured that we always offer the most current treatments on the market to provide our Nashville area patients with best possible dry eye disease management!