At Wichita Vision Institute in Wichita, KS, we offer TearCare®, an advanced dry eye treatment that can address and treat the symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction at its source and deliver long-lasting results. This non-invasive treatment option provides patients suffering from dry eye disease with an effective method to naturally restore adequate moisture to the eyes without the need for medications to alleviate symptoms and restore optimal eye health.
What Is TearCare®?
TearCare® is a unique dry-eye treatment specifically designed to treat dye eyes resulting from meibomian gland dysfunction. This treatment method is FDA-approved to treat the symptoms associated with this condition through a non-invasive treatment process. The treatment is quick, pain-free, and can significantly improve the symptoms associated with dry eye disease and help patients maintain optimal eye comfort, function, and health.
The Treatment Benefits
There are many benefits to undergoing a TearCare® treatment. Patients who haven’t found relief from the symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction with other treatment options can undergo a TearCare® treatment to experience long-term results. Some of the other treatment benefits include the following:
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Treatments are non-invasive
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Treatments are quick
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There’s no pain associated with the process
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Treatments rely on natural methods for results
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Patients only need one initial treatment for the best results
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Maintenance treatments can help prevent symptoms of meibomian gland dysfunction long-term
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There’s no downtime or recovery to plan around
How Does It Work?
TearCare® treatments use SmartLid™ Technology and heat energy to force meibomian gland expression from the eyes to address blockages, while also warming the fluid to promote thorough drainage. The device works in conjunction with the natural blinking process to manually drain the glands to restore moisture to the eyes. The treatment is quick and effective for those suffering from this condition, and once the results appear, they will last long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
Meibomian gland dysfunction is a condition that affects the normal functioning of the meibomian glands, the glands that allow fluid transportation to the eyes. The most common symptoms include eye discomfort and general eye dryness.
Normal meibomian glands allow moisture or tears to flow into the eye to prevent dryness and maintain adequate eye moisture. Dysfunctional meibomian glands often result from blockages and, as a result, cause the symptoms of dry eye.
What Should I Expect From the Treatment?
Patients who qualify as candidates for TearCare® treatments after an initial consultation will be situated in a comfortable position in a treatment room. We will place the device carefully over the ears and adjust the applicators around the eyes. Patients who wear contacts must remove them before treatment, and we will provide you with instructions about when you can reinsert them after the treatment is over.
The applicators will sit above and below the eyes on the upper and lower lids. Once the device is activated, it will deliver uniform heat to the area while manually unclogging the glands as you naturally blink during the treatment process. The treatment typically takes 15 minutes; once it’s over, you can resume your normal daily activities.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Most patients benefit from a single TearCare® treatment. However, patients suffering from meibomian gland dysfunction may benefit from follow-up treatments to enhance and prolong the treatment results. After you undergo the treatment process, we can determine whether you will benefit from additional treatments.
When Will I Notice the Treatment Results?
Most patients notice the best results a few weeks after initial treatment, but results vary among patients based on the severity of their condition. Once we evaluate your eyes and the severity of your condition, we can give you a better idea of what kind of results you can expect once your treatment is over.
Is There Any Downtime?
You won’t have to plan around any downtime after this treatment. Once we confirm your treatment eligibility, we can give you more details about what to expect during and after and provide you with any post-care directives. Most patients can resume their normal daily activities after the treatment is over.
Can I Combine This Treatment With Other Dry Eye Treatments?
Depending on your symptoms and the severity of your condition, we may recommend other dry eye treatment options in conjunction with this treatment. At Wichita Vision Institute, we offer several different dry eye treatment options that are non-invasive and effective for those suffering from this condition. Once we meet with you during your initial consultation, we can determine the best treatment plan based on your symptoms, preferences, and ultimate needs.
Am I a Good Candidate?
Patients suffering from meibomian gland dysfunction in one or both eyes may be good candidates for TearCare® treatments. An initial consultation is the first step in the treatment process as it allows us to evaluate your eyes, ask you some questions about your symptoms, and give you more details about the treatment process. We will also ask you some questions about your medical history and eyes to determine whether this dry eye treatment is right for you.
Learn More
If you’ve been living with meibomian gland dysfunction and are looking for a solution that can deliver long-lasting results, you may be a good candidate for this unique treatment. We can give you more details about this innovative, non-invasive, pain-free treatment and how it can help restore optimal hydration to your eyes and treat your condition.
