Dry Eye Menu of Treatments

Dry Eye Treatment In Tucson

Dry eye disease is a complex condition with a wide range of causes and symptoms. At Advanced Vision Care and Dry Eye Center, our clinic uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to uncover the root cause of your discomfort—so we can treat the problem, not just relieve the symptoms. Whether it’s meibomian gland dysfunction, inflammation, or another underlying issue, our treatment plans are tailored to your specific needs using the latest in dry eye therapy.

Listed below are some of the available treatment options that may be utilized in your care.

Punctal Plugs

Tiny collagen-based cylinders that your doctor places into the tear drainage ducts to help slow the flow of  tears going down the “drains” and to keep them in your eyes longer.  This keeps the eyes more hydrated and reduces the need for artificial tears.  Functions similar to putting the plug in the bathtub. 

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Meibomian Gland Expression

This treatment unclogs your existing meibomian glands so they can work properly again to provide comfortable, hydrated eyes and reduced need for artificial tears. The procedure involves applying pressure to the eyelids manually to help clear blockages and improve gland function.

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Radio Frequency Treatment

Radiofrequency (RF) is a safe, effective in-office treatment for dry eye. Heat is generated by high frequency electrical currents to clear out meibomian glands, increase oil flow, and reduce inflammation. It also works to stimulate collagen production which helps to tighten skin and reduce fine lines and wrinkles – an added bonus to the dry eye benefits of the treatment! RF can also be used to address persistent chalazia (“styes”) on a case by case basis.

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Scleral Contact lenses

Allows excellent vision while keeping the front of the eyes (corneas) hydrated in a layer of tears all day long. Creates a new, smooth surface of the eye to prevent the eyes drying out. An excellent treatment for moderate to severe dry eyes.

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Zest Treatment

An in-office eyelid cleaning and debridement system uses a natural okra-based gel to gently lift and remove debris from the eyelid. The bacteria, oil residue, dirt and dead skin at the eyelids may be contributing to dry eye symptoms and this often offers immediate improvement in symptoms stemming from demodex, blepharitis, meibomian gland deficiency, and other inflammatory conditions.

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Amniotic Membrane

Amniotic membranes are indicated for dry eye, acute chemical/thermal burns, recurrent corneal erosion, persistent corneal epithelial defects, filamentary keratitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, microbial keratitis, nodular degeneration, Stevens Johnson Syndrome, post-infectious corneal inflammation, corneal ulcers, pterygium, band keratopathy, bullous keratopathy, and PRK among other conditions.Patients generally tolerate amniotic membranes well, though mild irritation (similar to lash in the eye at times) is the most common side effects noticed. Amniotic membranes are donated human tissue that can be used as a dressing to facilitate ocular surface reconstruction and to promote healing.