Dry Eye Management– Belmont, MA

Corneal Mapping Technology

We utilize an advanced instrument called an Oculus Keratograph 5M Topographer to help measure the tear film dynamics. The tear film is a thin layer of fluid that covers the outer surface of the eye, preventing your natural tears from evaporating and causing dry eyes. It also measures thousands of points on the corneal surface to select the best specially-fitted contact lenses to help prevent rapid moisture evaporation. 

Artificial Tears

For more mild cases of dry eyes caused by being on the computer or reading for prolonged periods of time, artificial tears and over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help provide you with much-needed moisture.

Restasis

Instead of over-the-counter products, we may recommend daily use of prescription eye drops called Restasis. It lubricates your eye while simultaneously reducing inflammation and increasing your production of natural tears.

Xiidra

Xiidra is another type of prescribed eye lubricant that is created to reduce symptoms of dry eyes. You’ll apply the drops twice each day, about 12 hours apart, Within two weeks you should notice a significant reduction in dry eye.

Steroid Eye Drops

According to studies conducted over the last several years, inflammation has been targeted as a significant cause of symptoms of dry eyes. Steroid eye drops can be used as short-term solutions to redness and burning.

Lacrisert

Lacrisert is a sterile lubricant that is placed underneath the lower eyelid that will slowly liquify over the course of the day, providing a lasting moisturizing effect. It’s typically only applied once a day and has been proven to relieve dryness, burning, and itching.

Punctal Plugs

Punctal plugs are occasionally recommended to help your eye maintain tears for longer periods of time, providing lasting moisture. They’re small devices that are inserted into small openings of tear drainage ducts so tears will no longer drain away from the eye.

Meibomian Gland Expression

The meibomian glands located along your eyelids produce a special oil that keeps your tears from rapidly evaporating. Sometimes, they can become clogged, resulting in dry eyes. Dr. Ajoian can perform an in-office meibomian gland expression to help them function properly again.

Warm Compresses

Another easy way to express meibomian glands is to apply a warm compress on your closed eyelids at home to soften them. This will help unclog them and allow them to produce more oil. Your local pharmacy also has great options! Dr. Ajoian recommends TheraPearl Eye Mask by Bausch+Lomb or Bruder Dry Eye Masks.

LipiFlow

LipiFlow is an in-office dry eye treatment that uses heat and pressure to unclog the meibomian glands and relieve dry eyes. This special system utilizes warm compress therapy and meibomian gland expression to achieve optimal results.

Intense Pulsed Light

Intense pulsed light is a trusted, FDA-approved treatment for rosacea on the eyelid that can cause pain and dry eye symptoms. IPL offers an advanced therapy alternative to make patients less reliant on artificial tears.

Nutritional Supplements

Nutritional supplements like omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce the symptoms of dry eye. By drinking plenty of water and adjusting your diet, you can find holistic relief.