TearCare Dry Eye Treatment

Why TearCare?

Dry eyes are by far the most common complaint we see in our practice and the vast majority (86%) of dry eye disease is due to Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). Thickened secretions cause clogging of the glands which in turn leads to less meibum on the surface of the eye and more evaporation of tears. TearCare addresses this underlying cause of dry eyes by allowing these thickened secretions to be removed from the eyelids through the application of targeted heat.

What is it?    

Specialized attachments administer intense targeted heat to the eyelids for 15 minutes in order to thin out the viscous meibum secretions from the Meibomian glands. Following this heat application, Dr. Moss with apply gentle pressure to the eyelids to express the clogged oils out of the glands. This allows for new high quality meibum to be produced and secreted onto the eye which helps prevent the tears from evaporating and relieves dryness, grittiness, and foreign body sensation.

When will I see results? 

Most patients report an immediate improvement in their dry eye symptoms following their first TearCare treatment. Depending on the consistency of the meibum expressed, this will dictate the frequency for followup appointments and retreatments.

What can I expect after treatment? 

Immediately following treatment, you may experience a heatlike sensation in the eyelids. The lid attachments are precisely calibrated to deliver intense heat to the area without causing any damage to the skin. Your vision may be blurry for the remainder of the day as the previously-clogged, low quality meibum continues to collect on the ocular surface. Patients are able to resume their daily activities the very same day.

Is it right for me?  

The TearCare system is generally safe and effective in all patients with dry eye disease and a component of underlying MGD. Any patients with previous allergic reactions to medical grade silicone would not be appropriate candidates for TearCare.