Our dry eye specialists offer advanced treatments for dry eye conditions
Advanced Dry Eye Treatments & Expert Dry Eye Care
At the Dry Eye Center of North Carolina, our focus is on delivering comprehensive care for patients facing ocular surface disease, particularly dry eye disease. Our experienced team employs advanced technology and a meticulous process to pinpoint the root causes of your discomfort. We are committed to helping you gain a clear understanding of your condition through detailed explanations and personalized guidance. Our treatments are tailored to meet your unique needs, ensuring effective relief and improved eye health. You can trust us to provide the care necessary for lasting results.
Optilight IPL Dry Eye Treatment by Lumenis
Lumenis OptiLight is the first and only IPL dry eye FDA-approved device for management of dry eye disease due to Meibomian Glands Dysfunction (MGD). It uses precise pulses of light to reduce inflammation and improve tear break-up time. OptiLight uses a specific wavelength of light in short bursts to reduce inflammation. The treatment can relieve dry eye indicators and increase meibomian gland functionality.
You don't have to endure the discomfort of dry eye disease. With OptiLight by Lumenis, your symptoms can be effectively managed, restoring your quality of life. Our dedicated team is always ready to help you find relief from dry eye symptoms. To learn more, schedule a consultation with on of our experts.
Prokera is a medical device that is used to treat eye surface conditions. It is made from amniotic membrane, which is a part of the placenta that protects the baby in the womb. The amniotic membrane has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring properties. Prokera is used to:
Protect and heal damaged eye surfaces
Reduce inflammation and treat ocular surface disease
Stimulate regeneration and healing on the surface of the eyeball
Cover the cornea as it heals
Protect the eye tissue Stimulate new cell growth
Punctal Plugs (Punctal Occlusion)
Punctal plugs are tiny devices inserted into the tear drainage ducts (puncta) in the corner of the eyes. They block the drainage of tears, preventing them from draining away too quickly. This allows natural tears to stay on the ocular surface longer. Punctal plugs increase tear retention and are particularly effective for individuals with evaporative dry eye.
Inserting punctal plugs is a quick and minimally invasive procedure performed by an eye care specialist. It's virtually painless, and you'll be able to resume your daily activities immediately after the appointment.
Tear duct irrigation, also known as lacrimal duct irrigation or nasolacrimal duct irrigation, is a medical procedure used in the treatment of certain cases of dry eye disease. This procedure involves the flushing or irrigation of the tear ducts and associated drainage pathways. For individuals with dry eye caused by partial or complete tear duct blockages, irrigation can provide significant symptom relief.
If you are experiencing dry eye symptoms or have concerns about your tear drainage system, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our knowledgeable professionals.
Meibomian gland expression is a therapeutic procedure conducted by eye care specialists to address Meibomian gland dysfunction, a common cause of evaporative dry eye disease.
The procedure enhances the production and flow of healthy meibum, improving tear film stability and alleviating dry eye symptoms such as discomfort, redness, and blurry vision. After the procedure, the patient may receive instructions on eyelid hygiene, warm compresses, and other at-home measures to maintain the health of the Meibomian glands.
Regular expression can also serve as preventive care to maintain Meibomian gland health and reduce dry eye symptoms.
Prescription Medications for Dry Eye Disease
Several prescription medications are available for the treatment of dry eye disease (DED). Please note that the choice of medication and its suitability for an individual can vary depending on the specific type and severity of dry eye. Here is a list of some prescription medications commonly used to manage dry eye:
Cyclosporine (Restasis)
Lifitegrast (Xiidra)
Corticosteroids
Autologous serum eye drops
Tacrolimus ointment
Doxycycline
Omega-3 supplements
It is crucial to consult with a dry eye professional to determine the most appropriate medication for your dry eye condition.
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Zest (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment)™
Zest (Zocular Eyelid System Treatment)™ is a safe and effective in-office procedure specifically designed to alleviate symptoms related to dry eye, blepharitis, and demodex infestations. A quick 10-minute session can help in the deep cleaning of eyelid margins and eyelashes, resulting in immediate relief and improved eye health.
Utilizing a gentle, natural okra-based gel, Zest not only cleanses the eyelids but also aids in soothing the eyes and reducing inflammation. Imagine it as your biannual dental cleaning for your eyelids, complemented by at-home maintenance like warm compresses and lid scrubs to ensure lasting eyelid health, similar to brushing your teeth daily. If you are experiencing dryness, contact lens discomfort, crusting in the eyelashes, or recurrent styes, Zest could be the solution you've been searching for.
If you would like to know more about your options, give us a call at 919.568.1332 or book online!