LipiFlow Thermal Pulsation System

If you suffer from dry eye symptoms, it may be due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) or gland blockages. While this is a fairly common occurrence, people should know that there are solutions that could remedy this problem. Keep in mind, leaving dry eye symptoms uncorrected could lead to even more health problems. You don’t have to suffer in silence or be concerned about an invasive treatment. There is another option that may be suitable for your situation.

LipiFlow is described as a treatment device designed to remove blockages from the meibomian glands. Doing so allows the glands to function correctly and produce oils that create the protective layer of the tear film. This device allows people the opportunity to correct eye issues while minimizing discomfort. It is an incredibly simple procedure that allows people the chance to get results with minimal to no pain.

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How Does LipiFlow Work?

LipiFlow offers a simple solution with easy use. Essentially, disposable activators are placed just under and over the eyelids, careful to avoid the core of the eye. Once the activators are appropriately placed, the device sends a combination of heat and pressure to the inner lids while simultaneously generating a gentle motion on the outer lids. This combination of movement and gentle pressure not only removes gland build-up but also gently removes old gland residue that could potentially build up over time.

The entire treatment only lasts for twelve minutes. It does take some time for normal gland function to recover, but optimal results should be reached between 6-8 weeks following the treatment. Many people indicate that they experience results in as little as four weeks following the procedure. Results may vary from patient-to-patient.

Candidates for LipiFlow

If you’re wondering if you would benefit from this treatment, then there are a few considerations you should keep in mind. After all, this may not be a solution for everybody.

First, your eye care doctor will evaluate your gland production and determine if they are in proper working order. From there, you may be asked a series of questions, and additionally, tests may be performed. Dynamic Meibomian Imaging™ (DMI) is often conducted in order to get a high-resolution picture of your current gland structure. If it is determined that you do in fact have MGD, then LipiFlow may be the proper solution for you. Symptoms that may indicate you are a good candidate:

• Dry eyes

• Irritation

• Light sensitivity

• Changes in vision

• Eye fatigue

• Contact lens intolerance

Keep in mind; you may not be a candidate if you have any of the following issues:

• Recently undergone eye surgery

• Have an eye injury

• Have herpes of the eye

• Have chronic eye inflammation

These health concerns require a different treatment regime that LipiFlow simply cannot accomplish. Patients should also be aware that LipiFlow activators may not fit all eye shapes and sizes.

Side Effects

While LipiFlow is considered a safe and relatively comfortable procedure, there are potential side effects to consider. Common side effects include:

• Burning

• Stinging

• Redness

• Discharge

• Blurred vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Dryness
  
  
  

GT Lee

a) How long have you suffered from dry eye?
I've been experiencing dry eyes since my teen years, but never had it this bad until university where I resorted to eye drop several times a day, so I would say around 10-15 years.

b) What are your thoughts on the dry evaluation? I personally felt the evaluation was very thorough giving me insights about what's actually going on. Ryan talked me through the tests, explaining the results, and everything was very comprehensive and professional.

c) How did the LipiFlow treatment feel? Surprisingly, LipiFlow treatment felt really comfortable! As a person who can't even insert contact lenses, the session with LipiFlow went far better than I imagined. All I did was sitting comfortably on a chair, enjoying pulses of gentle heat and pressure. Very calming and therapeutic.

d) How your eyes feel now following the treatment? It felt amazing! Literally, it felt like someone gave me a nice warm massage to my tired eyes. The strains ebbed away and honestly, I haven't been using any eye drop since the LipiFlow session. The effectiveness to me was beyond amazing.