What is Dry Eye ?

Dry Eye is a condition in which a person doesn't have enough quality tears to lubricate and nourish the eye. Tears are necessary for maintaining the health of the front surface of the eye and for providing clear vision.  Tears provide lubrication, reduce the risk of eye infection, wash away foreign matter in the eye, and keep the surface of the eyes smooth and clear. Excess tears in the eyes flow into small drainage ducts in the inner corners of the eyelids, which drain into the back of the nose. Dry eyes can occur when tear production and drainage is not in balance. 

What Causes Dry Eye ?

There are many causes for dry eye syndrome. Insufficient blinking and deficiency of the tear-producing glands are thought to be the main causes.  It can also occur as a part of the natural aging process or a symptom of systemic disease such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren's syndrome.  Long-term contact lens wear is yet another cause; in fact, dry eyes are the most common complaint among contact lens wearers. 

How Is Dry Eye Diagnosed ?

Dry eye can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination and testing with emphasis on the evaluation of the quantity and quality of tears produced by the eyes.  Special dyes may be put in the eyes to better observe tear flow and to highlight any changes to the outer surface of the eye caused by insufficient tears.  Renton Vision Clinic is one of few practices equipped with the latest technology to accurately diagnose dry eye syndrome. With the most advanced diagnostic device, OCULUS Keratograph 5M, our doctors can effectively determine the root cause and suggest the best treatment plan. Please watch video below for detailed information about this technology.

How Is Dry Eye Treated?

Dry Eye is a chronic condition and once the root cause of it is determined your eye doctor can prescribe the most effective treatment to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.  Treatment options such as artificial tears, punctal plugs, or treating the eye inflammation by medication have been around for decades and up to now were the only treatment options available. With technological advancements, the treatment to promote healthy tear production by removing gland blockages and restoring gland function is now available.  Our clinic offers several FDA-Approved Dry Eye treatment technologies:

1) OptiLight Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy is a groundbreaking treatment for people with dry eye disease, especially those affected by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), a primary cause of the condition. IPL delivers controlled pulses of light to the skin around the eyelids, reducing inflammation, opening blocked meibomian glands, and improving oil secretion, which stabilizes the tear film and reduces evaporation. In 2021, the FDA approved IPL specifically for managing dry eye, validating its effectiveness and safety for this purpose. IPL has also been shown to diminish Demodex mites and certain bacteria around the eye that can exacerbate dry eye symptoms. Patients often experience less eye discomfort, improved tear quality, and fewer symptoms over time, making FDA-approved IPL an effective option for long-term relief. Our office uses Lumenis OptiLight IPL device for the most effective IPL dry eye treatment.

2) OptiPlus Radio Frequency Treatment

Radio Frequency (RF) treatment is an innovative, FDA-approved therapy for people suffering from dry eye disease, especially when it’s linked to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). This non-invasive treatment uses controlled radiofrequency energy to warm the skin around the eyelids, stimulating and loosening blockages in the meibomian glands. By enhancing these glands’ oil secretion, RF treatment stabilizes the tear film, reducing tear evaporation and alleviating dry eye symptoms. Beyond immediate relief, RF therapy also promotes collagen production, which can improve eyelid health and help maintain long-term eye comfort. With its FDA approval for dry eye treatment, RF therapy is a safe and effective option for providing lasting relief and helping patients manage dry eye symptoms more effectively. Our office uses Lumenis OptiPlus RF device for the most effective Radio Frequency dry eye treatment.

3) TearScience Lipiflow 

Lipiflow is well studied and documented by researchers and eye care professionals in the recent years, and it's one of the most effective treatment for the right candidates.  The video below provides more details about how Lipiflow works.