At Primary Eye Care Associates in Chicago, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the most advanced and effective treatments for dry eye disease. One of the innovative solutions we offer is TearCare®, a personalized treatment designed to address meibomian gland dysfunction, a common cause of dry eye symptoms. 

What is TearCare® dry eye treatment?  

TearCare® is a state-of-the-art, FDA-approved in-office treatment that uses targeted heat and gentle manual expression to unclog the meibomian glands in your eyelids. These glands produce the essential oil layer of your tear film, which helps prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly and keeps your eyes lubricated. When these glands become blocked or clogged, it can result in poor tear quality and dry eye symptoms. 

How does TearCare® work?  

During the TearCare® treatment, our optometrist, Dr. Steven Chander, will place flexible, wearable devices called SmartLids™ on your upper and lower eyelids. The SmartLids™ gently warm the meibomian glands to a precise temperature, softening the oils within the glands. Once the oils are softened, our eye doctor will use specialized instruments to manually express the glands, helping to restore their normal function and improve tear film quality. 

After the treatment, Dr. Chander may provide you with post-care instructions, including the use of lubricating eye drops and warm compresses, to optimize the healing process and maintain the health of your tear glands. 

What to expect during the TearCare® treatment 

The TearCare® procedure is performed in our Chicago office and takes approximately 15-20 minutes to complete. TearCare® treatment is well-tolerated by most patients and is generally painless. During the procedure, you may experience a warm sensation on your eyelids, which is an indication that the controlled heat is effectively targeting the tear glands.  

Many patients find the treatment to be relaxing and comfortable. The SmartLids™ are designed to allow you to blink naturally throughout the procedure, ensuring a comfortable experience. There is no downtime following the treatment, and patients can resume their regular activities immediately. 

When will I see results? 

The results of TearCare® treatment can vary from patient to patient. Some individuals experience immediate relief from dry eye symptoms, while others may notice gradual improvement over time as the tear glands become more active. In most cases, multiple treatments may be recommended to achieve optimal outcomes and long-lasting relief. 

What are the benefits of TearCare® treatment?   

Other treatments for meibomian gland dysfunction require something to be placed over your eyes and for you to keep your eyes shut, but TearCare® treatment allows you to keep your eyes open and blink normally throughout for maximum comfort.   

TearCare® treatments are also highly effective at clearing blockages and providing long-lasting relief from dry eye. If you’re experiencing dry eye symptoms, contact us today to schedule an appointment and ask our eye doctor about TearCare® treatment.