TearCare Dry Eye Treatment
At Delaware Eye Institute, we are proud to provide the most advanced treatments to address your dry eyes, including the TearCare System.
TearCare® is a 15-minute in-office procedure for the treatment of meibomian gland disorder. During the treatment, sterile single-use flexible eyelid devices gently adhere to the contours of the patient’s eyelids and apply low heat. By working in conjunction with the blinking eye, proprietary SmartLid™ technology facilitates natural meibum expression when meibum is in its melted phase. The TearCare® procedure is typically repeated in biannual or annual intervals. After TearCare®, we may prescribe a corticosteroid such as Inveltys or Lotemax SM for use twice per day.
TearCare System is an FDA-approved for patients with dry eye caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands line the inside of our eyelids and produce the oil layer on our tear film. We are prevented from secreting this oil when our meibomian glands become blocked or clogged. If our tear film lacks this crucial lipid layer due to a blockage, it can cause our tears to evaporate faster than normal and create dry eye symptoms. When left untreated, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) can become progressively worse.
What is MGD?
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is one of the most common causes of dry eyes. During your exam, our dry eye specialists will evaluate your Meibomian Glands to determine if your dry eye is caused by MGD. If MGD is left untreated, it can cause your glands to atrophy and shrink which may lead to permanent dysfunction. A sufficient number of meibomian glands should exist in order to achieve the maximum benefit from TearCare. After treatment, it is important to continue using therapies such as artificial tears and warm compresses as eye care maintenance for MGD. Very similar to how you would continue to floss and brush your teeth after an annual cleaning with your dentist.
How does it work?
TearCare is an effective treatment that is completed during the time it takes for a typical office visit. TearCare first involves applying small applicators to the outside of the upper and lower eyelids. TearCare is the only dry eye treatment that allows you to keep your eyes open during the process. The applicators will provide consistent and therapeutic heat to the area which, in conjunction with blinking, can help begin to unclog the glands. The doctor’s expression (or gentle squeezing) of meibomian glands and the removal of blockages can help jump-start oil production, creating a healthier tear film and reduction in dry eye symptoms.
Does TearCare treatment hurt?
No! Most of our patients find TearCare to be very comfortable, some even describe it as a spa-like treatment for their eyelids.
