Dry Eye Disease
Understanding Dry Eye Disease and Treatment Options
Dry Eye Disease (DED) is a complex condition caused by multiple factors that affect the eyes' ability to stay adequately lubricated. It results in discomfort, potential damage to the eye surface, and can significantly affect your quality of life. The condition is often linked to an imbalance in the tear film, inflammation, and issues with the eyelids or glands that produce tears.
Factors That Contribute to Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye disease can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Reduced tear production – due to aging, hormonal changes, or certain medications.
Excessive tear evaporation – caused by environmental conditions, such as dry air or wind, or health issues like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids).
Meibomian gland dysfunction – when the oil-producing glands in the eyelids don’t function properly, causing tears to evaporate too quickly.
Allergies – that can trigger inflammation and irritation in the eyes.
Systemic conditions – such as autoimmune disorders, diabetes, or thyroid disease.
Contact lens use – prolonged wear can irritate the eyes and affect tear production.
Environmental factors – such as air conditioning, smoke, and excessive screen time.
Blepharitis – an inflammation of the eyelids that can disrupt the normal functioning of the tear film and lead to dry eye symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease
Dry Eye Disease can manifest in a variety of ways. Some of the most common signs and symptoms include:
Dryness or a gritty feeling in the eyes
Burning or stinging sensations
Redness in the eyes
Excessive tearing or watering of the eyes (paradoxical response to dryness)
Blurry vision that worsens throughout the day
Eye fatigue or heaviness (especially after prolonged reading or screen use)
Sensitivity to light
Frequent eye infections or eyelid crusting
Mucous discharge from the eyes
Pain or discomfort wearing contact lenses
Before MBE:
After MBE:
Blepharitis and the Role of Microblepharoexfoliation (MBE) - AB Max
One of the common contributors to dry eye disease is blepharitis, a condition where the eyelid margins become inflamed, often due to bacterial buildup. This inflammation can impair the function of the meibomian glands, leading to dry eye symptoms.
Dr. Korkis offers an advanced in-office treatment known as Microblepharoexfoliation (MBE), a highly effective method designed to address blepharitis and improve dry eye symptoms.
MBE works by removing the bacterial biofilm that accumulates along the eyelid margins. This buildup of bacteria and debris can contribute to inflammation and clog the meibomian glands. The procedure gently exfoliates the eyelid surface, restores the lids to their natural state, and helps the glands function more effectively. It’s a non-invasive treatment with no downtime, offering significant relief for patients suffering from dry eyes due to blepharitis.
Before MBE:
After MBE:
Gland Expression:
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy and Gland Expression for Dry Eye
In addition to MBE, Dr. Korkis also offers Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy combined with gland expression as a proven, effective treatment for dry eye disease. IPL therapy targets the root causes of dry eye, particularly meibomian gland dysfunction, which is one of the primary contributors to tear evaporation. IPL uses light energy to treat the skin around the eyelids, reducing inflammation and improving the function of the meibomian glands.
Following IPL, Dr. Korkis performs gland expression, a technique designed to manually express the oils from the meibomian glands to help restore proper tear film production. This combination therapy has been highly successful, with many patients reporting significant relief and improved comfort. IPL therapy, along with regular gland expression treatments, is often used as a maintenance strategy, helping patients maintain long-term control over their dry eye symptoms.
Why IPL and Gland Expression Work and What You Can Expect
IPL therapy is an advanced treatment tool used regularly by Dr. Korkis. Many patients find that a series of IPL treatments significantly alleviates their symptoms, allowing them to enjoy relief from the burning, itching, and dryness commonly associated with dry eyes. Patients who undergo IPL therapy often report feeling better throughout the day, with results lasting for weeks. As a maintenance therapy, IPL can help patients manage their dry eye disease long-term.
Customized Dry Eye Disease Management by Dr. Korkis
Because dry eye disease is complex and its causes vary from patient to patient, Dr. Korkis offers customized management plans designed to address each individual’s unique symptoms and underlying causes. Whether it’s through a combination of lifestyle modifications, medications, or advanced treatments like MBE and IPL therapy, Dr. Korkis works with patients to develop a personalized plan that provides long-lasting relief and helps restore comfort and normal vision.