Dry Eye Treatment
Treatment Options at Pelham Eye Center
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Over-the-counter and/or prescription eyedrops are often a first line defense against dry eye symptoms.
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Punctal plugs are tiny medical devices inserted into the top or bottom tear ducts to keep tears on the ocular surface longer. Punctal plugs are nearly invisible. The insertion process is simple and well-tolerated with minimal or no discomfort. The plugs can be temporary, slowly dissolving over time, or semi-permanent, remaining in place for months or years.
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Meibomian gland expression is a simple in-office procedure performed alone or in conjunction with other procedures, such as intense pulsed light treatments. Gland expression helps squeeze out debris or blockages, allowing the natural oils to flow more freely.
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Soft bandage contact lenses or hard scleral lenses are sometimes to use to minimize dry eye symptoms or aid in healing if the cornea has been compromised. Scleral lenses are filled with a viscous solution that bathes the cornea in liquid, minimizing dry eye symptoms.
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Amniotic membranes are applied in cases of severe dry eye in which the cornea has been injured or compromised. These special membranes contain stem cells that the cornea can use to regenerate healthy tissue.
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Lumenis OptiLight IPL is an innovative way to treat meibomian gland dysfunction and chronic dry eye. The light targets inflammation and helps to restore meibomian gland function.
Lumenis OptiLight IPL
Say goodbye to dry eyes, and say hello to an illuminating solution! At Pelham Eye Center, we offer the first and only FDA-approved IPL treatment for dry eye disease caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
This gentle, in-office, non-invasive procedure is safe, comfortable, and supported by more than 20 clinical studies.
Let us help you get relief from your dry eyes!
How does OptiLight work?
OptiLight uses precise pulses of light to reduce inflammation typically associated with dry eye disease, improve tear break-up time, and increase meibomian gland function—in turn diminishing the signs and symptoms of dry eye.
These treatments can significantly relieve dry eye indicators with the following effects:
Increasing tear break-up time
Reducing bacterial and demodex load on and around the ocular surface
Eliminating blood vessels that contribute to inflammation (as seen with conditions like rosacea)
Improving meibomian gland function
Patients may also appreciate aesthetic benefits of OptiLight treatments, such as the reduction of fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, redness, and telangiectasia around the eyes!
