Dry Eye Spa

Dry eye can have a major impact on your quality of life-causing burning, irritation, fluctuating vision, and eyes that tire quickly during reading or screen time. At Lighthouse Vision, our approach focuses on finding the cause of your symptoms and treating it with advanced, in-office technology-especially therapies that support healthier eyelids and oil glands like IPL, Radiofrequency, and Low-Level Light Therapy.

What is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when the tear film becomes unstable and the eye’s surface isn’t staying comfortably protected. For many patients, the key issue is tear film quality, often tied to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)—when the eyelid oil glands become blocked or underperform. When the oil layer is disrupted, moisture evaporates faster, leading to irritation and blurred or fluctuating vision. Dry eye is common and often chronic, so the best results typically come from a personalized plan and ongoing care.

Advanced DRY EYE Diagnostics

To customize your treatment, we use the Oculus Keratograph® 5M with the Crystal TEAR Report—an advanced diagnostic platform that combines high-resolution imaging and symptom insights to help identify tear film problems, meibomian gland dysfunction, and inflammation patterns. This makes it easier to pinpoint what’s driving your discomfort and to track improvement over time with objective measurements and easy-to-understand visuals.

WHY LIGHTHOUSE VISION

A Targeted, Technology-Forward Approach

  • Diagnose the underlying drivers of your symptoms and condition
  • Focus on eyelid and gland health for better tear film stability
  • Build a plan together designed for your specific needs.

SIGNATURE TREATMENTS

Our Core In-Office Dry Eye Therapies

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

IPL targets eyelid inflammation and supports healthier meibomian gland function. Carefully delivered light energy can help reduce inflammatory triggers and improve the flow of thickened oils—supporting a more stable tear film.

Radiofrequency (RF)

Radiofrequency uses controlled therapeutic warmth to support eyelid tissue and oil gland performance. RF is often paired with other treatments to improve comfort and help restore healthier gland function over time.

Low-Level Light Therapy
(LLLT)

Low-Level Light Therapy is a gentle, in-office option designed to calm the ocular surface environment and support eyelid health—especially when inflammation is a major driver of symptoms.


Additional Options We May Recommend

Because dry eye is multifactorial, your plan may also include targeted options such as:

  • Punctal plugs
    To reduce tear drainage and help keep natural moisture on the eye longer
  • CAM360 amniotic membranes
    As a regenerative “bandage” option for patients with significant surface irritation
    or difficult flare-ups
  • Thermal gland therapies
    To help soften and express blocked oils
  • Specialty contact lenses
    For ocular surface protection and select vision/comfort needs

Supportive At-Home Care

To help maintain results between visits, we may recommend evidence-informed home support as part of your plan:

  • PRN (soon to be EyePromise) De3 Omega-3 fish oil for nutritional support that helps support tear film quality and meibomian gland function
  • nuLids as an at-home eyelid hygiene tool to support cleaner lid margins and healthier gland performance (as directed)

*Disclaimer: Supplements and home devices are recommended selectively and should be used as directed as part of a broader care plan.

Preventive Self-Care

Simple Daily Habits That Help

Blink fully and often — especially during screen time

Use a humidifier in dry environments

Wear wrap-around sunglasses outdoors to reduce wind exposure

Stay well-hydrated

Ask if any medications may contribute to dryness

Consider targeted nutrition support when appropriate

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my dry eye is coming from my eyelids or oil glands?

Our evaluation includes advanced imaging and tear film analysis so we can identify whether MGD, inflammation, or other factors are contributing—and then match treatment accordingly.

What does IPL feel like?

Treatments are quick and well-tolerated. Most patients describe a warm sensation during light pulses. Your plan and settings are customized for comfort.

Do I need more than one session?

Yes. Studies have shown that patients benefit from a series of four to five treatments and then periodic maintenance, usually twice a year, based on symptoms and diagnostic findings.

Are punctal plugs permanent?

They can be temporary or longer-lasting depending on the type used and your needs.

What is the Crystal TEAR Report?

It’s a structured report generated by the Oculus Keratograph 5M that summarizes key tear film and eyelid findings in a clear, patient-friendly format to guide treatment decisions.