Lake Mary’s Dry Eye Disease Center of Excellence
Our eyes need tears in order to stay healthy and comfortable. If you are having trouble producing tears, you likely have a form of dry eye disease. Luckily there are many treatments available to you.
Common Symptoms of Dry Eye Disease
- Red Eyes
- Burning Eyes
- Itching Eyes
- Foreign Body Sensation
- Sandy/Gritty Eyes
- Light Sensitivity
- Watery Eyes
- Occasional or Constant Tearing
- Pain or Soreness in or Around Eyes
- Tired Eyes
- Contact Lens Discomfort
- Inability to Wear Contact Lenses
- Seasonal Allergies
- Dry Mouth/Throat
- Arthritis/Joint Pain
What Causes Dry Eye Disease?
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
- Aging
- Contact Lenses
- Hormonal Changes in Women
- Environmental Factors
- Side Effects of Medication
- Sjogren’s Syndrome
- Laser Vision Correction
- Computer Use
How Do We Determine What Treatment is best for a Patient with Dry Eye Disease?
Properly diagnosing the type of dry eye disease is an important first step. A questionnaire is often used to determine the degree of symptoms. We take measurements to check to see if you have an aqueous deficient dry eye, lipid deficient dry eye, and/or incomplete eyelid blink. At Lake Mary Eye Care, common measurements taken during a dry eye disease evaluation would include:
Osmolality of Tears
An increase in osmolality is a sign of inflammation in the tears.
Mebiography
We take images of the glands in the eye lids to see if they are functioning properly.
Tear Break Up Time
A measurement of how long it takes for the front surface of the eye to evaporate.
Tear Meniscus Height
A measurement of the tears resting on the lower lid.
Treatment Options
Dry eye disease can be a temporary or chronic condition. Fortunately, there are many ways to treat the condition.
Treatment is often a step-wise approach. If step 1 does not resolve the symptoms then we would add on another treatment. Patients typically start with an over-the-counter lubricating drop. If symptoms persist then additional treatments should be implemented. Common treatment options in our office include:
Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation
Lipiflow is the gold standard in treating Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). MGD is the most common underlying cause of dry eye syndrome. 86% of dry eye patients have MGD. Lipiflow is a quick 12-minute in-office procedure that gently heats and massages the Meibomian glands in the eyelids to remove blockages. This procedure allows the body to produce new fresh oil to help restore normal homeostasis to the tear film.
Comfort Plugs
A small device to retain your natural tears in your eyes.
Restasis/Xiidra
A prescription medication to treat inflammation of the cornea.
Scleral Contact Lenses
A scleral contact lens creates a fluid-filled space between the contact lens and the eye providing the front surface of the eye with constant lubrication. Scleral Contact lenses vault the sensitive front surface of the eye called the cornea and land on the white part of the eye which is not very sensitive. Scleral contact lenses provide excellent comfort, clarity and, unlike other contact lenses, are an excellent treatment for dry eye disease.
VisiDisc (Amino)
All-natural treatment that utilizes powerful growth factors, collagens, extracellular proteins, and bioactive molecules naturally found in human amniotic tissues. These amniotic tissue components may provide your body with the foundation it needs to reduce pain, inflammation, restore tissue and reduce scarring. This is an excellent treatment option for patients who have a severe dry eye disease that has not responded well to other treatments. This is a quick in-office procedure. Please call and schedule an appointment to determine if this a good treatment option for your severe dry eye disease.
Insurance and Payment Plan Information
We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare and, if needed, we also provide a payment plan option called Care Credit. Care Credit provides a no-interest payment plan if paid in full within 6 or 12 months. Care credit can be used to pay for services and/or products such as glasses or contact lenses. You can enroll online at carecredit.com
Testimonials
It's always a pleasure to visit this office. I was able to walk in today to order a pair of prescription sunglasses, and got my computer glasses fixed (mechanic issue) . Ashley (the lady help fit glasses) is always very patient and considerate. Highly recommended!Yang Li
I recently visited the office of Dr. Love and was VERY impressed. The staff was friendly and helpful and Dr. Love was both professional and knowledgable. I could not help but notice the cleanliness of the office. They sprayed my hands when I entered, and checked my temperature. All of the staff were wearing masks. Every piece of equipment was spotless and was meticulously cleaned between patients. I could not have had a better experience with this office full of wonderful, caring individuals.Mary Rose
The staff is great and helpful. Dr. Love listened to my requests and gave me the best plan for my eye care. I can't say enough, however, about Ashley. She is always prepared for my visit and has great frame options for me in my favorite color. They always fit my face perfectly. She is AMAZING!Kelli Boyer
As always from the moment you walk in you are greeted with a smile. Everyone you come in to contact with here are very professional and friendly making it a pleasant experience. I have recommended this facility and will continue to do so. Very caring environment.Linda Goodall