Columbia, S.C. — People who suffer from Meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD for short, have a new option to consider for longer lasting relief of dry eye. Called LipiFlow, this breakthrough technology was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use on patients in November 2015. Offering a reliable way to ease the symptoms associated with dry eye, this treatment is now available to patients at The Eye Center.

“LipiFlow is the only electronic treatment device approved for use in helping patients who suffer from MGD,” say the doctors at The Eye Center. “By delivering precise heat treatments directly to the inner eyelids and a directed gentle massage, this treatment effectively unblocks Meibomian glands to provide patients the relief from dry eye they’re after.”

Dry eye is characterized by stinging, irritated and scratchy eyes. Some people may feel like they have grit in their eyes and may also experience redness and blurry vision. Interestingly enough, this condition may also cause excessive tearing. Dry eye essentially results from problems with the eye’s tear production. In the case of MGD, it results in blockage in the Meibomian glands.

LipiFlow produced very pleasing results in studies leading up to its FDA approval, The Eye Center’s doctors say. On average, patients enjoy a three-fold improvement in gland function, which can reduce the symptoms associated with dry eye by as much as half. Prior to LipiFlow’s approval, treatment options included the use of prescription medications, punctal plugs, eye scrubs, eye drops and warm and hot compresses, among others.

“By providing a way to restore the natural oil flow to the eye’s tear film, LipiFlow promotes a longer lasting solution,” the doctors say. “We are very pleased to be able to offer this new treatment to our patients at The Eye Center.”

To find out more about dry eye and treatments, including LipiFlow, consult with the doctors at The Eye Center or visit the practice online at TheEyeCenterSC.com.

About The Eye Center

The Eye Center is the leading refractive practice in South Carolina, providing full service eye care and specializing in Refractive Surgery – Epi-Lasik, AST, PRK, PRELEX, as well as Corneal Transplant and Cataract Surgery.