Dr Maiers and Uphold have decades of experience evaluating and treating Dry Eye Disease. In the United States, between 30 and 40 million people are estimated to suffer from dry eye symptoms which include burning, itching, tearing, sandy/gritty feeling, light sensitivity, decreased vision, contact lens intolerance, and redness. Dry eye syndrome can also make your eyes feel strained and tired. Dry Eye Disease can be caused by multiple factors including certain medications such as antihistamines and antidepressants, contact lens use, lifestyle factors such as screen time and/or computer use, environmental factors such as air pollution and low humidity and also androgen deficiency. There are also nonmodifiable risk factors for Dry Eye Disease such as older age, Sex(Female), Race(Asian), Sjogrens Syndrome, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, Rosacea, and certain autoimmune and inflammatory diseases (Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hypothyroidism, Graves disease, Eczema, etc…). Our doctors have vast knowledge and experience treating mild to severe forms of dry eye. They use a variety of medical treatments to improve ocular inflammation safely and effectively, including the use over the counter and prescription eye drops, Hyaluronic Acid lids spray and scrubs, Punctal Plugs, Amniotic Membranes, Autologous Tears, and a new advanced FDA-Approved Light treatment for Dry Eye Disease, IPL. Schedule an appointment today for a treatment and maintenance plan that will be customized for you to start seeing and feeling better!
Advanced Treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome
Punctal Plugs (can we put the word punctal plugs on the left of the page and then the description an
We have two tiny openings in the inner corner of each eyelid called punta, one on the upper eyelid and one on the lower eyelid. Punctal plugs are made of silicone and physically block the punctum. The closure of the puncta conserves both your own tears and artificial tears that may have been inserted in the eye. Punctal plugs are more commonly dissolvable in approximately 4-6 months but there are also permanent punctal plugs. They are also used to stop tearing or epiphora.
Amniotic Membranes
In our office we use PROKERA amniotic membranes. PROKERA® biologic corneal bandage devices are used to heal and treat ocular conditions such as keratitis, moderate to severe dry eye disease, recurrent corneal erosions, filamentary keratitis, persistent epithelial defects, neurotrophic corneas, herpetic ulcers, and many other ocular surface diseases such as chemical burns and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
Optilight by Lumenis (IPL or Intense Pulsed Light)
Optilight is the first and only IPL FDA-approved for dry eye management. OptiLight with Lumenis patented Optimal Pulse Technology uses precise, intense broad spectrum light to address inflammation-one of the key underlying factors in dry eye disease due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. Optilight was specially developed to reach the delicate contour of the treated area safely, effectively, and gently. It sets new treatment standards and helps patients to regain health, control and joy. Optimal results in just a few short sessions A course of treatment typically includes 4 sessions spaced 2-4 weeks apart Each session usually takes only 10-20 minutes Patients usually report an improvement after their 2nd or 3rd treatment Maintenance treatments are usually recommended every 6-12 months to ensure the best long term results You may experience a warm sensation as light is applied to the skin, the treatment is gentle with minimum discomfort GENTLE, FAST, NO-DOWNTIME Immediately following treatment you may experience some redness. This typically disappears within a few hours. You can return to your daily activities and apply makeup straight away in most cases You will be advised to stay out of direct sunlight for a few days and to apply sunscreen
A brighter solution for your dry eye therapy!
Learn more about OptiLight therapy -
now available at Youngwood Eye Care!