TearCare®

The TearCare® system is FDA-approved to treat dry eye symptoms caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Meibomian glands, located in the upper and lower eyelids, are responsible for producing the essential oil layer of the tear film. When these glands are blocked or clogged, they cannot secrete this vital oil. Without this lipid layer, tears evaporate quickly, leading to dry eye symptoms. If left untreated, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) can worsen over time.

At Spectrum Eye Clinic + Medspa, our experienced team is dedicated to diagnosing and treating dry eye in San Diego. We develop tailored treatment plans to meet each patient’s unique needs, ensuring the most effective approach to dry eye relief.

What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?

Dry Eye Syndrome may often be caused by a condition known as Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The Meibomian glands, located in your eyelids, produce oils (lipids) that are crucial for maintaining eye moisture and preventing tear evaporation. When these glands become blocked over time, they stop producing enough oil, leading to dry eye symptoms. MGD is the primary cause or contributor in up to 85% of dry eye disease cases. We offer advanced cutting-edge treatments at Spectrum Eye Clinic + Medspa for Meibomian gland dysfunction, including FORMA-I by Inmode®, OptiLIGHT by LumenisTM, and TearCare® to help manage and alleviate your dry eye symptoms effectively.

What is TearCare?

Specialized attachments deliver intense, targeted heat to the eyelids, thinning out the thick meibum secretions from the Meibomian glands. After this heat application, Dr. Moss gently applies pressure to the eyelids to express the clogged oils from the glands. This process allows for the production and secretion of new, high-quality meibum onto the eye, preventing tear evaporation and relieving symptoms like dryness, grittiness, and foreign body sensation.

How Does TearCare Work?

The TearCare® system includes two flexible eyelid devices that Dr. Moss will place on your upper and lower eyelids. Made of a soft, flexible material, these devices conform to your eye’s natural shape and sit comfortably throughout the procedure. Unlike other treatment methods, TearCare allows your eyes to remain open and blinking during the entire process.

What Can I Expect During a TearCare® Treatment?

Before Your Treatment

If you're experiencing symptoms of dry eyes such as redness, excessive tearing, or irritation with a gritty feeling, reach out to us at Spectrum Eye Clinic + Medspa for a consultation appointment. Our dedicated team of dry eye specialists will assess your condition, including determining if you have Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), and discuss whether the TearCare® treatment might be suitable for you.

During Your Treatment

  • Preparation

    The TearCare® treatment is fast and simple. During the treatment, Dr. Moss will thoroughly clean makeup and oil from the eyelids and temples using the TearCare® wipes.

  • During Your Treatment

    Dr. Moss will ensure the SmartLidsTM are adequately curved to conform to the patient's eyelid and make any adjustments to further curve the SmartLidsTM and then they are placed and adhered to the patient's upper and lower eyelids. As the eyelid devices apply heat, you will continue blinking, as usual, to help clear your glands and facilitate natural meibum expression as the meibum melts.

  • Treatment Duration

    The TearCare® dry eye treatment usually takes a relatively short amount of time, with the procedure lasting around 15 minutes for both eyes. Once your treatment is over, Dr. Moss will gently remove the eyelid devices. To clear any residual blockage he will then use a special pair of forceps to clear any residual blockage of the meibomian glands.

  • Post-Treatment Care

    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 can resume their daily activities on the very same day. We may also prescribe a corticosteroid such as Inveltys or LotemaxSM for use twice per day. Additional post-treatment instructions will be provided to help minimize the healing time.

  • Follow-Up Appointments

    The TearCare® procedure is typically repeated in biannual or annual intervals.

  • 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.

  • 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 of follow-up appointments and retreatments.

Request a Vision Consultation

Give us a call at: 619.365.5501 or fill out the form below to request a free consultation!