A Noninvasive Solution for Your Dry Eyes

Suffering dry eyes is a common problem, especially among those who wear contacts or work in windy environments. However, not all cases of dry eye are the same. 

Severe cases of itchy, dry eyes can lead to hours of frustration and even permanent damage. In these cases, you need diagnosis and treatment by a professional ophthalmologist. 

At Ventura Eye Institute in Camarillo, California, our professional team of eye care specialists can provide you with a noninvasive, effective solution for your dry eye problem.  

Common causes of dry eyes

Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes aren’t able to produce enough tears to keep your eyes lubricated, or your tears are of poor quality. 

Contrary to popular belief, tears don’t just consist of salt water. The tear film that keeps your eye lubricated has three layers: the oily upper layer, aqueous fluid in the middle, and mucus on the bottom. If there’s not enough oil in your tears, the moisture evaporates and your eyes begin to feel dry and irritated. 

Your meibomian glands are responsible for producing the oil in your tears. These glands are located on the edge of your eyelids, and can become clogged. This alters the consistency of your tears, which leads to increased evaporation. 

One common treatment for clogged meibomian glands is a professional washout. Brianne Enegren, PA-C, specializes in the treatment of dry eye syndrome, and she routinely performs meibomian gland washouts to clear obstructions in the meibomian glands.

How a washout can help

A washout involves tiny probes inserted into the glands to stimulate atrophied muscle that may be compressing them and not allowing oils to escape. 

In most cases, the probing relaxes the gland and oil washes out, mingling with tears and restoring the balance required to slow evaporation and relieve dry eyes.

What to expect from your treatment 

A washout is a safe, effective treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). This procedure is considered noninvasive, and we can perform it in our office with only a topical anesthetic delivered in the form of eye drops that numb your eye and glands.

Studies show that probing is more effective than traditional conservative treatments for dry eyes, such as warm compresses and eyelid massage. Many patients need to be probed only once, but some people need repeated probing for lasting results. 

Tired of dry, itchy eyes? Get a dry eye diagnosis and learn whether meibomian gland probing is right for you. To schedule an appointment, call 805-388-1211 or book online.