Beyond Eye Drops: Advanced Dry Eye Treatments That Target the Root Cause

If you rely on eye drops throughout the day but still experience burning, irritation, or fluctuating vision, your dry eye may need a more targeted approach. Artificial tears can provide useful lubrication, but persistent symptoms deserve an evaluation to understand what is contributing to them. At Mission Family Optometry, we offer dry eye care in Granada Hills that focuses on identifying the cause and choosing treatment to match your needs.

Why Eye Drops May Not Be Enough

Dry eye can develop when your eyes produce too few tears or when your tears evaporate too quickly. Some people experience both problems. Artificial tears help supplement moisture, but they may not fully address underlying eyelid inflammation or blocked oil glands.

The meibomian glands along your eyelids release oils that help prevent rapid tear evaporation. When these glands become blocked or function poorly, the tear film becomes less stable. This condition, called meibomian gland dysfunction, or MGD, can leave your eyes uncomfortable even when you use lubricating drops.

Forma I RF Supports Oil Gland Function

Our Forma I (RF) technology uses radiofrequency energy to deliver controlled warmth around the eyelids. This heat helps soften thickened oils within the meibomian glands, making them easier to release.

For appropriate patients, addressing obstructed glands can help improve the tear film’s protective oil layer. We may recommend Forma I as a standalone treatment or alongside Lumecca I IPL, depending on our findings.

Lumecca I IPL Targets Inflammation

Lumecca I (IPL), or intense pulsed light, delivers controlled light pulses to the treatment area with protective eye shields in place. It targets small blood vessels associated with inflammation and may help manage inflammation contributing to MGD, including in some patients with ocular rosacea.

RF and IPL address different contributing factors. We evaluate whether either treatment, or a combination, is appropriate for your eyes. Results vary, and a series of sessions may be recommended.

Signs It Is Time for a Dry Eye Evaluation

Consider scheduling an evaluation if you experience:

•          Persistent burning or stinging

•          A gritty or sandy sensation

•          Recurring redness or irritation

•          Blurry vision that comes and goes

•          Symptoms that continue despite lubricating drops

These symptoms can overlap with other eye conditions, so an examination helps guide appropriate care.

Preparing for Your Appointment

Bring a list of your medications and eye drops, and tell us when symptoms occur, how long they last, and what makes them worse. This information helps us understand your concerns and develop a personalized plan. Your care may include in-office treatment, appropriate drops, eyelid hygiene, and changes to daily habits.

Schedule your dry eye evaluation with Mission Family Optometry to explore advanced treatment options. Visit our office in Granada Hills, CA, or call (818) 360-7522 to book an appointment today.