Dry eye is a very common disease affecting millions of Australians. Victoria is no exception, so here at Eye Laser Specialists we have set up a specialised dry eye clinic in Melbourne to treat what can be a debilitating condition.
What is Dry Eye?
Dry eye results from an abnormality of the tear film that covers the transparent dome at the front of the eye known as the cornea. This abnormality can arise from inadequate tear production or from a decrease in the quality of the tears, resulting in a dry and irritated ocular surface.
There are two basic groupings of dry eye – evaporative dry eye and aqueous deficiency dry eye. Evaporative dry eye arises from a decline in the function of certain glands surrounding the eyelids, known as Meibomian glands. Aqueous deficiency dry eye is less common and is a result of a reduced production of the watery aqueous layer of the tear film.

How Do I Know if I Have Dry Eye?
Dry eye can manifest in many different ways and not all patients will identify the feeling as dryness. Some other symptoms of dry eye include:
● Grittiness or a feeling of something stuck in the eye
● Red eyes
● Tired eyes
● Fluctuating or blurry vision
● Itching and irritation
● Watery eyes as a response to the irritation from dryness
Eye Spa: Your Dry Eye Specialist in Melbourne
Dry eye can have a significant impact on quality of life for many people – that’s why at Eye Laser Specialists we offer the Eye Spa, a specialised dry eye centre for our Melbourne clients. After an in-depth discussion with our experienced clinicians you will undergo a thorough assessment to evaluate the cause of your dry eye. This examination may include:
Advanced Dry Eye Treatment
Some patients may require more intensive dry eye therapy to achieve comfortable eyes that no longer feel gritty or sore. The Eye Spa at Eye Laser Specialists is equipped with specialised technology to treat dry eye.
IPL and LLLT
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT) have been shown to effectively treat Meibomian gland dysfunction and related evaporative dry eye. Brief bursts of light are applied to the delicate eye area by a trained professional. These specific wavelengths of energy reduce the number of abnormal blood vessels involved in inflammation of the eye, brightening the whites of the eyes and leaving them feeling fresher.
Lipiflow
Dry eye disease is often due to blockage of one or more Meibomian glands. Simultaneous heat and gentle pressure is applied to the eyelids with the Lipiflow machine; this helps to unblock the glands and encourages better quality secretion.
BlephEx
An eyelid condition known as blepharitis can often contribute to dry eye. The BlephEx device cleans and exfoliates irritants from the eyelids and eyelashes to reduce inflammation and improve the overall health and hygiene of the eyelid.
Don’t suffer with dry eye any longer. Call 1300 297 583 today and book a consultation at the Eye Spa for happier, healthier eyes.
