How do optometrists treat dry eye disease?

Dry eye disease is a condition that has many different causes. Because of this, there are many different treatments for dry eye disease. Usually, dry eye disease is a chronic condition, so it is not completely curable. However, it is manageable.

One way to treat dry eyes is to use eye drops. There are different strengths of eye drops, and our doctors will find the right one for you. Another way to treat dry eye disease is to use warm compresses. Making sure you are getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in your diet can also help treat eye disease. You can get omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fish, flaxseed, and chia seeds.

We offer 3 different in-office, non-invasive treatments here at Royal Oak Optometry. Those treatments are Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), Radiofrequency (RF), and the Zocular Eyelid System Treatment (ZEST). These treatments were originally used in dermatology, but have been proven to address some of the root causes of dry eye disease.

What is Intense Pulsed Light treatment for dry eyes?

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) is a type of light therapy that can help improve dry eye syndrome in some patients. It works by targeting small blood vessels that are causing inflammation. This can help reduce the symptoms of dry eyes and also help get rid of mites that can cause problems for your eyes.

IPL can also have the benefit of improving the look of your skin by reducing redness or eliminating dark spots, and has also been shown to reduce rosacea around the eyes.

Click here to book a dry eyes consultation with one of our optometrists!

What is Radiofrequency treatment for dry eyes?

Radiofrequency (RF) is a new and innovative treatment that can bring relief to dry eyes. This new treatment works by using uniform heat at a safe temperature to unblock Meibomian glands (which are in and around the eyelids).

After treatment, your care provider will express your Meibomian glands in order to unblock them and promote healthier oils into your tears. An added benefit of RF treatment is that it increases collagen production, which naturally slows down with age. By increasing collagen growth, RF can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes.

Click here to book a dry eyes consultation with one of our optometrists!

What is a ZEST treatment for dry eyes?

ZEST is a 10-minute in-office eyelid and eyelash deep gentle cleansing, exfoliating treatment that contains okra extract. It helps lift and clear oil, debris, and bacteria biofilm off your eyelid margins. This buildup can result in itchy, flaky, red, irritated, watery eyes and can contribute to discomfort throughout the day. ZEST leaves your eyes feeling clean, refreshed and revived!

Click here to book a dry eyes consultation with one of our optometrists!