Dry eye is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing symptoms like irritation, burning, redness, and fluctuating vision. While occasional dryness may be manageable with over-the-counter eye drops, chronic dry eye often requires a more targeted approach.
At Avon Vision Associates, we specialize in helping patients find solutions beyond over-the-counter eye drops. Whether your dry eye is caused by environmental factors, screen time, or underlying medical conditions, our advanced treatment options can provide long-term relief.
Why does dry eye happen?
Tears play a crucial role in keeping your eyes comfortable and healthy. They consist of three layers:
- Oil (Lipid Layer): Prevents tears from evaporating too quickly.
- Water (Aqueous Layer): Provides hydration and nourishment.
- Mucus (Mucin Layer): Helps tears spread evenly across the eye.
If any of these layers are imbalanced, it can lead to dry eye. A common cause is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where the oil-producing glands in the eyelids become blocked, preventing proper tear stability. Other factors, such as aging, medications, and autoimmune diseases, can also contribute to dry eye symptoms.
At Avon Vision Associates, we offer innovative treatments to restore tear balance and relieve discomfort.
Advanced dry eye treatments at Avon Vision Associates
OptiLight IPL therapy
Inflammation is a key factor in many cases of dry eye, particularly when associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is a gentle, non-invasive treatment that reduces inflammation and improves the function of the meibomian glands. By applying controlled pulses of light to the skin around the eyes, IPL helps to:
- Reduce abnormal blood vessels that contribute to inflammation.
- Stimulate the meibomian glands to improve oil production.
- Alleviate symptoms of conditions like ocular rosacea, which can exacerbate dry eye.
Many patients experience noticeable relief after a series of IPL sessions, with improvements in tear quality and overall eye comfort.
Celluma LLLT: Light therapy for dry eye relief
Another effective option for treating dry eyes is Celluma low level light therapy (LLLT). This treatment uses specific wavelengths of light to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation around the eyes. By increasing blood flow and improving tear production, LLLT can help relieve dryness and discomfort. It’s especially effective for people with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) or blepharitis (eyelid inflammation), both of which are common causes of dry eye symptoms. Many patients report significant improvements in their symptoms after just a few sessions, and the relief can last for weeks or even months.
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment)
Healthy eyelids are essential for maintaining a stable tear film. ZEST is a professional eyelid cleaning treatment that removes debris, bacteria, and biofilm from the eyelid margins. This treatment is particularly beneficial for patients with blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), meibomian gland dysfunction, or chronic eye irritation related to bacterial buildup. By keeping the eyelid area clean, ZEST helps to improve oil gland function and promote healthier tears.
Forma-I radiofrequency treatment
Forma-I radiofrequency (RF) therapy is another advanced solution for dry eye. It delivers controlled RF energy to warm and unblock meibomian glands, stimulating natural oil production to keep your tears from evaporating too quickly. RF therapy also enhances collagen production, which can support long-term eyelid health. This treatment is especially effective for chronic dry eye and enhances the effectiveness of other dry eye therapies.
TearCare® system for meibomian gland dysfunction
Another innovative treatment for MGD is the TearCare® system. This procedure uses wearable, flexible heating devices to apply gentle warmth to the eyelids, followed by targeted gland expression. The heat softens and loosens blockages in the meibomian glands, allowing them to function more effectively.
TearCare® is an excellent option for patients who need a personalized, in-office treatment to restore natural oil flow and improve tear stability.
Scleral contact lenses for dry eye relief
For those with moderate to severe dry eye, standard treatments may not provide enough relief. Scleral contact lenses can offer significant comfort by covering the entire surface of the eye and creating a reservoir of moisture between the contact lens and your cornea. These lenses protect your eyes from irritants like wind, smoke, and dust while keeping them hydrated throughout the day. Many people with dry eyes find that scleral lenses are more comfortable than regular contacts and that they don’t need to rely on artificial tears as often. If treatments like over-the-counter eye drops haven’t worked for you, scleral lenses may provide the relief you’ve been looking for.
Find the best dry eye treatment in Avon, CT
At Avon Vision Associates, we understand that every patient’s dry eye condition is unique. Our goal is to help you find the right solution that provides lasting relief so you can enjoy comfortable, clear vision again.
If you’re tired of living with dry, irritated eyes, don’t wait any longer. Schedule an appointment with us today at Avon Vision Associates, and let us help you find the best treatment for your unique needs.