TearCare Dry Eye Treatment

TearCare® is a 15-minute in-office procedure used to treat dry eye. The sterile single-use flexible eyelid devices gently adhere to the contours of the patient's eyelids and apply low heat. SmartLidTM technology works in conjunction with the blinking eye to facilitate natural meibum expression as the meibomian melts. The TearCare® procedure is usually repeated every 6 to 12 months.

What does TearCare treat?

 TearCare System is an FDA-approved treatment for patients with dry eye due to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).  Meibomian glands line the inside of our upper and lower eyelids and produce the oil layer on our tear film.  A blocked or clogged meibomian gland prevents us from secreting this oil.  When this crucial lipid layer is missing from our tear film due to a blockage, it results in our tears evaporating faster than normal and causing dry eye symptoms.  Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) can become progressively worse if left untreated. 

How does it work?

TearCare can be completed in the same amount of time as a typical office visit. In contrast to other dry eye treatments, TearCare allows you to keep your eyes open throughout the procedure. Treatment begins with an applicator being applied to the outer edges of the upper and lower eyelids. A constant, therapeutic heat will be applied through the applicators, which, combined with blinking, will help to unclog the glands. As part of your treatment, your doctor will express the meibomian glands to help remove blockages that can stimulate oil production, resulting in a healthier tear film and a reduction of dry eye symptoms.