
In Wichita’s windy climate, it is very common for many of us to experience dry eye symptoms like redness, itching, eye fatigue, blurred vision, excessive watering, burning and grittiness. Dry eye syndrome is frequently treated with eye drops, prescription eye drops, punctal plugs, and warm compresses. If you have moderate to severe dry eye syndrome and have tried these treatment options but received little relief, you may be a great candidate for the innovative LipiFlow treatment Thermal Pulsation System. Wichita Vision Institute was the first practice in Kansas to offer this groundbreaking treatment.
How Does LipiFlow® Work?

LipiFlow treatment is designed to treat the root cause of evaporative dry eye syndrome. Evaporative dry eye occurs when the outer lipid (oil) layer is deficient, which causes the water portion of the tear film to dry out quicker and evaporate at a more rapid rate. Evaporative dry eye can cause difficulties with reading, working on the computer, driving, watching television, and other common daily activities. LipiFlow® works by unblocking meibomian glands to restore lipid (oil) production needed for a healthy tear film layer.
The LipiFlow® treatment is a 12-minute, in-office treatment that applies heat and massage to your eyelids which helps loosen and release thickened oils from the meibomian glands in the eyelid. Opening and clearing these blocked glands allows the glands to resume natural production of lipids (oils) needed for a healthy tear film.
The Activator (eyepiece) of the LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation System is a patented single-use applicator which uses precise heat applied to the inner eyelid with intermittent pressure to allow release of thickened oils so that the meibomian glands can resume natural lipid (oils) production. With its built-in sensors and unique design, the Activator ensures a safe, comfortable, sterile treatment.
In a clinical study, 79 percent of patients reported an improvement of their overall dry eye symptoms within four weeks, ranging from 10 to 100 percent improvement. Imagine living your life again without worrying about your eyes. LipiFlow® could be your first step to dry eye relief.
Am I a Candidate?
To determine if you suffer from evaporative dry eye and are a good candidate for LipiFlow®, schedule a dry eye consultation at Wichita Vision Institute. At the Accredited Dry Eye Center, Dr. Reena Patel and her knowledgeable staff will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your tear film, tear concentration, tear production, meibomian glands, blinking habits, lid position and tear ducts. During your exam, Dr. Patel may recommend that you have a LipiView® Ocular Surface Interferometry.
What Can I Expect after LipiFlow® Treatment?
There is no downtime or recovery period needed after the LipiFlow® treatment. Most patients are back to work and their normal activities very shortly after treatment. Many patients experience relief from dry eye symptoms within the first two weeks, but patients with severe dry eye may experience relief from their symptoms three months or longer after the treatment. Dr. Patel will prescribe a combination of treatment regimens for you to follow after LipiFlow® treatment. Remember that dry eye is a chronic disease and that LipiFlow® is not a cure for dry eye syndrome.
LipiFlow® FAQs & Dry Eye FAQs
What is dry eye?
Dry eye is a very common chronic medical condition that can affect your vision and health of your eye if left untreated. There are two types of dry eye syndrome: aqueous -deficient dry eye and evaporative dry eye. Aqueous-deficient dry eye occurs when there is a decrease in production of the water layer of your tear film. Evaporative dry eye occurs when there is a decrease in the oil layer of your tear film. During your dry eye evaluation, Dr. Patel may recommend performing a LipiView® analysis or a TearLab osmolarity test to identify the cause of your dry eye symptoms and make recommendations of the best treatment options for you.
Is dry eye syndrome common? What are possible causes?
Dry eye syndrome affects 100 million people throughout the world. It has been estimated that 40 million people in the United States suffer from dry eye syndrome. Dry eye symptoms can result from numerous factors, including age, medications, hormones, lifestyle, association with other diseases, etc.
Do I have dry eyes?
Dry eye patients may experience dryness, excessive watering or tearing, a feeling of foreign body in the eye (foreign body sensation), light sensitivity (photophobia), irritation, eye fatigue, burning, stinging, grittiness, blurred or fluctuating vision, itching, redness and/or discharge from the eyes. To determine if your symptoms are due to dry eyes and to learn more about the best treatment options for you, schedule a dry eye consultation with Dr. Patel. To learn more about dry eye please call us at 888-984-4393 (888-WVI-4EYE) or click here to schedule an appointment.
How do I find out if what I have is evaporative dry eye?
During your dry eye evaluation, Dr. Patel and her staff conduct a comprehensive spectrum of tests including LipiView® analysis which help determine whether you have evaporative dry eye and/or meibomian gland dysfunction.
What are meibomian glands, and why are they important?
Meibomian glands are at the base of the eyelids and produce oil for the tear film. Over time, these glands may become blocked and may not produce enough oil for a healthy tear film. If you do not have an adequate oil layer in your tears, your eyes can feel dry and irritated. Restoring oil flow can help improve dry eye symptoms.
I was diagnosed with dry eyes, but my eyes constantly water. Why?
Many of our patients are surprised to learn that their eyes are dry because they constantly water. It may seem like a contradiction, but excessive tearing is very common with dry eyes. When your brain senses that your eyes are dry, it sets off a reflex which causes your lacrimal glands to produce more tears to try to compensate for the dryness.
What is LipiView®?
The LipiView® system utilizes advanced imaging to precisely measure the lipid (oil) layer of your tears and the frequency and quality of your blinking by videotaping you blinking and analyzing more than 1 billion data points. This new technology can be essential to determining whether you have significant evaporative dry eye and whether you are a good candidate for LipiFlow® treatment. To schedule an appointment and/or to learn more about dry eye today, please call us at 888-984-4393 or click here to send an email.
How should I prepare for my LipiView® analysis and dry eye evaluation?
Here are some helpful guidelines for you to follow before your initial dry eye consultation and LipiView® analysis:
- Do not wear contact lenses to the visit.
- Do not use any artificial tears 24 hours prior to your visit.
- Do not use any eyelid creams or ointments 24 hours prior to your visit.
- Do not use Restasis 24 hours prior to your visit.
- Do not swim in a chlorinated pool for at least 12 hours prior to your visit.
- Do not rub your eyes vigorously 24 hours prior to your visit.
- Do not use oil-based facial cosmetics around the eye prior to your visit.
By following these guidelines, you will help ensure increased accuracy of LipiView® testing if it is performed during your dry eye evaluation.
I was diagnosed with dry eye syndrome. What treatment options do I have?
Wichita Vision Institute, an Accredited Dry Eye Center, offers a variety of treatment options for your dry eyes. Common treatment options include:
- Lubrication (artificial tears, gels, ointments)
- Punctal plugs
- Restasis/Cyclosporine
- LipiFlow®
- Lid hygiene & compresses
- Topical & /or oral antibiotics
- Oral supplements
What is LipiFlow®?
The LipiFlow® treatment is a 12-minute, in-office treatment that uses a single-use applicator which applies heat and massage to your eyelids, in turn helping to loosen and release thickened oils from the meibomian glands in the eyelid. Opening and clearing these blocked glands allows the glands to resume natural production of lipids (oils) needed for a healthy tear film. Patients with meibomian gland dysfunction and/or evaporative dry eye syndrome may greatly benefit from LipiFlow® treatment.
Will my eyes be affected during LipiFlow® treatment?
The Activator (eyepiece) of the LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation System is a patented single-use applicator which uses precise heat applied to the inner eyelid with intermittent pressure to allow release of thickened oils so that the meibomian glands can resume natural lipid (oils) production. With its built-in sensors and unique design, the Activator protects the front surface of your eye (cornea) and ensures a safe, comfortable, sterile treatment.
Does LipiFlow® hurt?
Dr. Patel has had the LipiFlow® procedure and described it as a warm massage of the eyelids that was relaxing. She did not experience any pain or discomfort. In a clinical study, the average pain/discomfort score during LipiFlow® treatment on a scale of 1-10 was 1.4+ 1.4, which equates to awareness of heat and pressure without pain.
How long does LipiFlow® take?
Plan to be at the office for about an hour if you are having only the LipiFlow® treatment. If you are having additional testing, you may be at the office longer. The actual LipiFlow® treatment takes 12 minutes for both eyes.
Are LipiView® and LipiFlow® covered by insurance?
At this time, the LipiView® analysis and LipiFlow® treatment are not covered by insurance. We do notify your insurance company that you have had LipiView® testing and/or LipiFlow® treatment to help encourage them to cover these important new technologies, but there is currently no insurance coverage for these new technologies. We CAN, however, bill your dry eye evaluation to your medical insurance.
How long do the benefits from LipiFlow® treatment last?
Results can vary depending on the patient and the severity of their dry eye. It can take several weeks to months for symptom reduction/relief. A single LipiFlow® treatment can last up to 2-4 years depending on the patient. It is critical to understand that dry eye is a chronic condition and there is no permanent treatment for this disease. LipiFlow® is not a cure. LipiFlow® helps restore oil production to help improve dry eye symptoms and prevent progression of evaporative dry eye. Sustained relief from LipiFlow® involves numerous factors including your age, physiology, general health, number of years with evaporate dry eye syndrome, and amount of activities that exacerbate the problem (e.g., staring at a computer for an extended period of time). For some patients, repeated LipiFlow® treatments may be recommended or necessary.
Is there a permanent cure for dry eye syndrome?
Unfortunately, there is no permanent fix or cure for dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome is a chronic disease, which can be managed and controlled with various treatment options. We are fortunate that technology has advanced in the last several years to offer new groundbreaking treatments for dry eye syndrome. Our Accredited Dry Eye Center offers a comprehensive range of testing and treatment options to fight dry eye symptoms.
What if I chose to ignore my evaporative dry eye problem?
Evaporative dry eye is a chronic disease. Without treatment, symptoms are likely to worsen and may include the following:
- Permanent loss of meibomian gland dysfunction
- Further ocular discomfort/irritation
- Visual degradation
Have there been clinical trials for LipiFlow®?
In a clinical study conducted, most patients (76%) who had the LipiFlow® treatment noted improvement of their dry eye symptoms within two weeks. In the study, patients treated with LipiFlow® showed improvement in oil secretion from meibomian glands and in the time tears remained on the eye before evaporating. Four weeks after LipiFlow® treatment, 79% of patients reported improvement in dry eye symptoms.
How much does LipiFlow® cost?
The cost to treat one eye with the LipiFlow® procedure is $800. To treat both eyes, the cost is $1,600. Insurance does not cover the LipiFlow® procedure.
Is LipiFlow® FDA-approved?
Yes, LipiFlow® is FDA-approved to treat evaporative dry eye.
I Can See Clearly Now
by Don Burrows
Category: cataract surgeryDr. Patel saved my wife’s vision and mine too. I now live 770 miles from her office and would still make the trip, even if it required a cross-country trip.
I highly recommend Dr. Patel
by Jim Guhl
Category: cataract surgeryDr. Patel is a physician whose sincere goal is to improve the quality of life for her patients. When I first became a patient under Dr. Patel’s care, I was diagnosed with cataracts in both of my eyes; dry eye syndrome; and astigmatism. Previous records from my Lasik surgery, which occurred 17 years ago, were no longer available. The Lasik surgery documentation was important in determining the exact corrections that now needed to be made to properly correct my astigmatism. Dr. Patel wisely recommended I postpone the cataract removal and astigmatism correction procedure, until she received newly developed diagnostic equipment. This newly developed technology would provide her with the most accurate metrics possible. New specialized lens implants were also becoming available, which would correct my astigmatism. Dr. Patel explained my chances for a successful outcome would be significantly increased if I would be patient and wait a little longer. Dr. Patel is truly a physician with high integrity and would never perform surgery until she knew it was the right time. She truly cares about providing her patients with the best care she can. Dr. Patel successfully treated my dry eye symptoms with a regiment of eye drops, cleansing techniques and vitamins, which prevented me from requiring more extensive - and more expensive treatment. Prior to the surgery on my right eye, she provided me with sample eye drops from her office and coupons for the eye drops I would need to purchase after my surgery. She did all she could to reduce my expenses. During preparations for right eye surgery, Dr. Patel spent quality time with me explaining the results of my pre-surgery testing and asking questions to determine my vision goals. One of my desires was to once again see the front sight on a pistol. I thoroughly enjoyed going to the firing range, but due to the cataract in my right eye I could no longer see the sights, on my pistol. Although the cataract in my left eye was not as bad yet – I was also experiencing difficulty seeing and firing left handed. Using a blue gun (authentic plastic replica of a Sig P229 pistol), Dr. Patel took additional measurements which she used in determining the correct lens to implant, during my surgery. My right eye surgery took place on November 1, 2017. Two days after the surgery, I happened to glance at my mobile phone and for the first time in 10 years or more, I could read the information on the screen without glasses. I pulled the Sig out of its case and – wow! – The sight picture was there clear as a bell. So the right eye cataract is gone along with the rainbow halos around cars at night and the astigmatism has been corrected better than I dreamed possible. Quality of life restored! The process included the latest diagnostic equipment; the newest technology in an intraocular lens implant; and the use of a laser surgery technique performed by Dr. Patel. Sadly, insurance does not cover much of the cost for the process that produces the optimal results. When it comes to the long term correction of your vision and significant increase in the quality of life it is well worth the investment. Dr. Patel is a very accomplished and highly competent physician and surgeon. I will be forever grateful to her for restoring my vision. I highly recommend Dr. Patel. Jim Guhl Wichita, KS November 13, 2017
In Good Hands
by Luke F.
Category: lasik surgeryTalk about a life changing surgery!!! From the consultation to the surgery I knew I was in good hands. I would recommend WVI to anyone who is considering LASIK. Thanks WVI!
Life Changing!
by Ashley J.
Category: lasik surgeryI love Dr. Patel! After having my dreams crushed at another place when they told me I wasn't a candidate, I went to Dr Patel for a lasik consultation. She is very thorough and gave me information about my eyes that no doctor in almost 20 years has told me. A week ago I had Lasik and it has been life changing! I couldn't be happier and I'm so glad I chose Dr Patel. She truly cares about her patients and her passion shows. The wait time can be very long, but if you are prepared for that ahead of time, you won't be disappointed once you see the doctor. I'm recommending WVI to everyone I know. She is now the only doctor I trust for my eyes.
Impressed with Dr. Patel and Staff
by William D.
Category: cataract surgeryI first saw Dr. Patel about 6 years ago when my left eye wandered to the left side and stayed there. She sent me to the Dean McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City for further evaluation. No reason was ever found as to why it did that but it corrected itself after about two months. Since then I have been seeing Dr. Patel regularly. I damaged the left eye in an accident and had to have a vitrectomy performed. She referred me to another specialist Dr. Paul Weishaar and that outcome was also great. The eye did develop a cataract and she performed that surgery a few months ago and suggested a plan for treating dry eyes. It was outstanding and since wearing glasses for over 50 years, I now just wear sunglasses. Simply amazing. Dr. Patel and her staff are the greatest and they know other great professionals if the need arises. They also do charity work and they are all a total blessing to me. I would not even consider going anywhere else. Just gotta love them.
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