Upon being diagnosed with Dry Eye Syndrome after Dr. Dawn Wattenhofer examined images of my eyes from the Oculus Keratograph 5M machine; I was introduced to the idea of the seeking treatment from the Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation System. The Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation System is an advanced technology that is designed to improve gland function. At first, I was a bit alarmed and unsure if I wanted the treatment. But after speaking with my doctor, staff of Vision Source Specialists, and doing my own outside research- I knew I wanted to try this treatment of my Dry Eye Syndrome.
The Facts
The Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation System is an automated thermal eyelid massage that applies consistent yet gentle heat and pulsating pressure to the eyelids. LipiFlow is the only FDA cleared device that provides both inner and outer lid therapy. During treatment, the small LipiFlow device will be applied to the eyelids one at a time. The device works to unblock clogged meibomian glands, restoring the appropriate balance of oils in the eye’s tear film to relieve dry eye. This oil is essential for a healthy tear film and for protecting the tear layer or watery layer of your eyes. When the water layer is exposed due to lack of oils on the top of the tear film because of gland blockages, the result is the leading cause of Dry Eye Symptoms.
My Experience
My appointment was early in the morning and I wore no makeup to the eye doctor. I had been advised as they would be placing the pulsation system on my eyelids. While I felt a bit nervous, the process was not only easy but the doctor and the doctor’s technician vocalized the process in a clear manner and made me feel comfortable. After a few numbing drops to both my eyes, the system was placed on both of my eyelids. Soon the system’s temperature started to rise and I could feel slight warmth. Little did I realize the system was reaching nearly 108 degrees. It felt much like a warm compress on my eyes and I felt no discomfort. Then after reaching the peak temperature the system began to “pulsate” or massage my eyelids internally and also externally. This also did not hurt, but instead felt soothing. Then in approximately 12 minutes the entire process was finished. Immediately, my eyes felt almost “glossy” and better than they had in years.
Now it is time to wait for the full effects of the Lipiflow to take place, which for many patients take 6-8 weeks after treatment. While I wait I have also started other treatments, which I will go into detail with in my next blog. Typically the Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation System takes some time for maximum effects, I did feel immediate relief after using the system. My eyes did not feel as dry and the next morning my eyes were not dry, crusty, or have blurry vision at first. I will take this as a win and I look forward to more relief my eyes will feel over time from the Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation System.
For more information on Dry Eye Syndrome, treatment for dry eyes such as the Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation System, or the Oculus Keratograph 5M, contact Vision Source today.