A continuation of information regarding dry eyes will go to product we have not talked about before called TearCare. TearCare is a similar product from LipiFlow which we have discussed previously in that it uses heat energy to loosen up blocked meibomian glands. Where it differs is that the patients eyes are open throughout the procedure and the temperature can be adjusted throughout the process for a more customizable experience.
First there are 2 eyelid pads that are applied to the upper and lower eyelids where the meibomian glands are. The devise is then turned on and takes a couple minutes to warm to a therapeutic temperature level. The pads continually give heat energy to the meibomian glands but the temperature can be changed throughout the procedure if needed. It takes approximately 12-15 minutes to perform the test. Once the thermal energy has finished then the pads are removed and the eye doctor will express the glands gently with a special instrument. This way the oil from the glands can flow freely to prevent evaporation of the aqueous tear layer.
If you or someone you know has chronic dry eyes and feels that warm compresses are not helping enough for you please call (860) 233-2020 to schedule an appointment today with one of our dry eye experts to discuss if TearCare is right for you.
