Using LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System For Treating MGD
More than 20 million Americans suffer from dry eyes, which is a condition that affects people who are unable to produce enough tears to lubricate the eye. Studies of dry eye syndrome have linked 86% of people with dry eyes as also having symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). MGD is blockage of the meibomian glands in the eyelids, causing the glands to not secrete enough oil into the tears. Due to the tear film on the surface of the eye drying up too quickly is often why MGD is associated with dry eye disease. At Marano Eye Care, we treat MGD with our new LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System.
What is the LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System?
LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System is a medical device that is used to gently heat up your inner eyelids and massage away and clear blockage in the meibomian glands. The contoured design of the device arches the cornea and protects the eyes while clogged meibum (the oily substance that prevents evaporation of the tear film in your eye) is liquefied and pushed out of the glands.
Who is at Risk for MGD?
Anyone can get MGD, but some people are more susceptible to it than others. If you wear contact lenses and are heavily using electronic devices throughout your day, you are at a higher risk for MGD. Working at a computer or wearing contacts lowers your blink rate – without blinking as much, your meibomian glands will start to clog. Women that are posmenopausal or individuals who have Rheumatoid Arthritis or Lupus are also at greater risk of having MGD due to certain medications used to help their autoimmune disease. That’s why the LipiFlow treatment is great for anyone at a higher risk for having MGD.
How the LipiFlow System Works
The Lipiflow treatment takes about 12 minutes and can be done in one of our offices located in Morris and Essex County, NJ. Your eye doctor will first use the LipiScan device to get a better look of your meibomian glands, helping your doctor make an initial diagnosis. If your doctor discovers that you do have MGD, you are an eligible candidate for the LipiFlow treatment.
Before the procedure, you will receive numbing drops to help with any potential discomfort from the treatment. Next, the device’s dome-shaped activators are placed on both of your eyes. Their arched shape helps keep your corneas protected during the procedure, focusing on the inner eyelids where the meibomian glands are found. Using Vector Thermal Pulsation, the activators on your eyes send heat gently into the glands inside your eyelids. The combination of the heat and pressure works away blockages and liquefies the obstructions that are causing your MGD symptoms. After the treatment, you may see results right away, but generally symptoms improve within six to eight weeks.
LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation For MGD in NJ
If you suffer from MGD and dry eye syndrome, schedule an appointment at Marano Eye Care for specialized care. We have the resources and expertise to address your condition. If you are interested in learning more about our LipiFlow treatment or other services, please give us a call today and we’ll be happy to answer any questions that you might have.
