iLUX® Dry Eye Treatment
Dry eye disease is defined as a common condition that occurs when your tears can’t provide adequate lubrication for your eyes. Tears can be inadequate and unstable for many reasons. For example, dry eyes may occur if your Meibomian Glands don’t produce enough tears or produce poor-quality tears. This tear instability leads to inflammation and damage of the eye’s surface. 30 million people in the United Statesare affected by Dry Eyes out of which 86% of dry eye sufferers are reported to have clinical signs of meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). However, less than half of patients with MGD show symptoms, and many MGD sufferers may not even know they have it.
What is MGD?
The small oil glands that border the edge of the eyelids are known as meibomian glands. These glands produce oil, which covers the surface of our eyes and prevents our tears’ water component from evaporating. The tear film is made up of two layers: water and oil. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) occurs when the glands are blocked and do not secrete enough oil. This blockage causes the tears to evaporate more easily and dries the eyes out more quickly. It is a chronic condition and will worsen over time if it’s not treated properly.
Diagnosing MGD
If you regularly use rewetting eye drops to combat the eye dryness or have symptoms such as eye irritation, blurry vision, burning, watery eyes or itching of the eyes, ask our doctor to evaluate your symptoms. Our medical staff will compress your eyelids to assess the level and quality of meibum that is expressed. Healthy meibum will be clear and adequate whereas it will be thicker and cloudier for the more severe blockage.
iLUX®: Dry Eye Treatment That Starts At The Source
The iLUX® MGD Thermal Pulsation System is a hand–held device which delivers treatment directly to the blocked meibomian glands with the goal of clearing the blockages. Therapeutic heat is applied to the eyelids at the optimal temperature. Then, while the oil is thoroughly melted, it is expressed with precise pressure. A medical professional will be at your side every step of the way, providing you with real-time feedback. Treatment of both eyes takes approximately 8 to12 minutes. After the glands are unblocked, it will be easier for the meibum to be released naturally.
Treatment with the iLUX® device was shown to significantly reduce dry eye symptoms such as gritty eyes and irritation. In clinical studies, iLUX® was shown to increase meibomian gland function by 300% at 4 weeks post-treatment, compared to baseline.