At Primary Eye Care Associates, we offer advanced treatments to address the underlying causes of dry eye disease and provide long-lasting relief to our patients throughout Chicago, Midway, and Garfield Ridge. We are proud to offer the LipiFlow® thermal pulsation system, a cutting-edge treatment designed to target meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), one of the leading causes of dry eye symptoms. 
 

What is the LipiFlow® thermal pulsation system?  

The TearScience® LipiFlow® thermal pulsation system is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment that uses controlled heat and gentle pressure to unclog the meibomian glands located in the eyelids. These glands produce the oily layer of the tear film, which is essential for maintaining proper eye lubrication. When these glands become blocked or dysfunctional, it can result in a poor-quality tear film and dry eye symptoms. 

How does LipiFlow® work?   

Before undergoing LipiFlow® treatment, our experienced optometrist, Dr. Steven Chander, will conduct a thorough examination of your eyes to assess the extent of your MGD and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. 

During the LipiFlow® treatment, Dr. Chander will place a small device called the LipiFlow® activator on each eyelid. The activator consists of a soft, contoured cup that fits comfortably over your eyes. The activators use a combination of heat and gentle pressure to effectively unclog and express the meibomian glands.  

Some people describe the experience of receiving LipiFlow® treatment as a “massage for the eyes.” The purpose of the massage is to relax and open the meibomian glands to expel obstructions as the blockages are warmed and liquified. The procedure takes 20 minutes or less and is completely painless. 

After the removal of the gland obstructions, the meibomian glands can then produce the oils necessary to keep your eyes moist and healthy.   

After LipiFlow® therapy   

You can typically resume daily activities immediately after the procedure. Many patients experience improvement in their dry eye symptoms within a few weeks after LipiFlow® treatment. However, individual results may vary, and it may take some time for the meibomian glands to fully recover and resume normal function. Our optometrist will work closely with you to monitor your progress and recommend any additional treatments or adjustments as needed to optimize your results. 

Depending on the severity of your dry eye disease, you may need subsequent LipiFlow® treatments in six months to a year after receiving the initial treatment in our office. Dr. Chander will recommend the right treatment schedule for your specific case of dry eye disease to best meet your needs.   

Contact us today to schedule a dry eye evaluation and find out if LipiFlow® is the right treatment for your specific case.