P: (919) 568-1332
WELCOME TO
Dry Eye Center of North Carolina
Our goal is to foster a collaborative relationship where you feel informed and involved in your treatment journey. We offer a unique and personalized approach to dry eye diagnosis, treatment and routine maintenance that empowers our patients to take an active role in their ocular health, guiding them towards lasting relief and improved quality of life. That's why we offer and holistic solutions that address both the symptoms and root causes of dry eye. Our providers will give you the explanation and guidance you need to understand your diagnosis, and provide personalized treatment options that yield results.
Our Approach
At our Dry Eye Center in North Carolina, we focus on helping patients with ocular surface diseases, including dry eye syndrome, and eyelid conditions. We know how much this condition affects your daily life. That's why we use the latest tools and research to understand your symptoms fully. By figuring out what's causing your dry eyes, we can create a treatment plan just for you. Our goal is to make your eyes feel better, improve your vision, and give you back control over your daily activities.
What is Dry Eye Disease?
Over 30 million people in the U.S. suffer from Dry Eye Disease. From irritation, redness, and sensitivity to light, dry eyes can make everyday life uncomfortable, to the say the least. Dry Eye Disease, also known as Ocular Surface Disease, results from an imbalance in the tear film composition on the surface of the eyes. This imbalance leads to symptoms such as burning, itching, watery discharge, redness, discomfort, and variable vision. Essentially, dry eye occurs when the eyes lack sufficient high-quality tears to lubricate and nourish the front surface adequately. Diagnosis and treatment of dry eye necessitate specialized expertise and a comprehensive assessment of the ocular surface, tear film and eyelids.
Dry Eye Evaluation & Treatment
At Dry Eye Center of North Carolina, we utilize cutting-edge technologies to accurately assess the severity of your condition. Our advanced diagnostic tools allow us to provide thorough evaluations and recommend personalized treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Our approach revolves around our precision dry eye diagnostic algorithm, combined with a cutting-edge blend of treatments, a patient support program, and ongoing treatment management .
Dr. Renzo A. Zaldívar is a highly trained ocular surgeon who has specialized in oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He trained at the Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota and is a member of the prestigious American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ASOPRS). This society recognizes surgeons who have expertise in this field and has less than 600 members worldwide.Dr. Renzo A. Zaldivar Oculofacial Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Donathan Hudgins
Dry Eye Specialist
Dr. Hudgins earned his Doctor of Optometry degree from the University of Houston, College of Optometry. Dr. Hudgins completed an externship in primary eye care at the Womack Army Medical Center General Optometric Clinic. He also completed two tertiary externships at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center concentrating in Corneal and Anterior Segment Pathology and Neurological Ocular Disorders. Telehealth Services
Diagnostic Services
We understand the importance of providing convenient care options for our patients with dry eye. Our telehealth service allows us to offer virtual visits for initial consultations, treatment counseling, and select follow-up appointments. While in-person the overall care experience for our patients. Schedule a telehealth appointment today to start your journey toward healthier eyes.
Eyelid Assessment
Dry Eye Center of North Carolina offers specialized eyelid analysis conducted by our skilled oculofacial plastic surgeon. By utilizing the expertise of our surgeon, we are able to provide detailed assessments and tailored treatment plans to address various eyelid conditions effectively. Trust us for precise and comprehensive eyelid evaluations to enhance your eye health and overall well-being.
Tear Film Analysis
Tear film analysis is a critical component of assessing ocular health and diagnosing conditions such as dry eye disease. By evaluating the quality and quantity of tears, tear film analysis provides valuable insights into the overall health of the ocular surface. Through techniques such as tear breakup time, interferometry, and tear osmolarity measurement, eye care professionals can pinpoint abnormalities in the tear film composition and tailor treatment plans to address specific issues effectively.
Meibography
Meibography is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows for the detailed visualization of the meibomian glands in the eyelids. By capturing high-resolution images of these glands, meibography helps in assessing their structure, function, and any potential abnormalities. This technology is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions such as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) and can aid in developing targeted treatment approaches to improve overall eye health and comfort.
Treatment Services
Prokera is a medical device designed for treating eye surface conditions. Crafted from the amniotic membrane, a protective layer of the placenta shielding the fetus in the womb, Prokera boasts natural anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring properties. This innovative device is utilized to safeguard and repair damaged eye surfaces, alleviate inflammation in the case of ocular surface disease, prompt regeneration and healing on the eyeball surface, cover the cornea during the healing process, shield eye tissue, and foster the growth of new cells.
Amniotic Membrane
When managing dry eye symptoms at home, you have several treatment options to consider. These may include using artificial tears, warm compresses, eyelid hygiene practices, and nutritional supplements,. It is essential to consult with a dry eye professional to determine the most effective at-home treatments for your specific condition. Regular follow-up appointments can help track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your home treatment plan. Remember, consistency in following your personalized at-home regimen is key to effectively managing dry eye symptoms.
At-Home Treatments
Optilight IPL by Lumenis
OptiLight IPL Dry Eye Treatment by Lumenis is a groundbreaking FDA-approved solution specifically designed to address Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). By delivering precise pulses of light, the device targets inflammation and enhances tear break-up time, ultimately alleviating dry eye indicators. Say goodbye to the discomfort of dry eye disease with OptiLight. Our team is prepared to assist you in finding relief and improving your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experts.
Zest Eyelid Treatment
ZEST (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment) is a gel made with a refined okra extract, a potent cleanser capable of removing Demodex mites. Gentle enough for the eye area, ZEST effectively cleanses by lifting and removing biofilm, bacteria, oil, debris, and residue from the eyelids. It also soothes inflammation associated with dry eye and blepharitis.
Zest is an in-office procedure that involves applying the gel to the eyelid margins and lashes with a sterile foam swab. The optometrist then uses the swab and gel to manually deep clean the eyelid and eyelash area.
