How Does Inmode Forma Radiofrequency (RF) Treat Dry Eyes?
What is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common eye condition, affecting up to 50% of the population.
It occurs when the quantity or quality of the tears is compromised, and the eyes are unable to receive the nourishment and protection they need to remain healthy and hydrated.
While there are a number of conditions that can lead to DES, approximately 80% of dry eye cases are caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
The meibomian glands are the oil-secreting glands that line the upper and lower eyelids. These tiny glands produce the oil (meibum) that makes up the lipid layer of the tear film — an essential layer responsible for preventing rapid tear evaporation.
Meibomian gland dysfunction occurs when these tiny glands become blocked or clogged with thick secretions, preventing the normal flow of oil into the tear film and affecting the quality and quantity of the tears.
MGD can occur due to a buildup of debris or eye makeup, as well as blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) and demodex mite infestations.
Common Symptoms of MGD
Meibomian gland dysfunction produces a range of symptoms, including:
- Dry eyes
- Itchy eyes
- Red eyes
- Crusty discharge in the corner of the eyes
- Burning sensation in or around the eyes
- Watery eyes
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred vision
- Chalazion/styes
- The feeling something is stuck in the eyes
How Does Inmode Forma Radiofrequency Help?
Inmode Forma Radiofrequency (RF) is an FDA approved, therapeutic dry eye treatment that has been proven effective in treating DES resulting from MGD.
This specialized treatment uses heat generated RF energy to open the clogged meibomian glands and improve oil flow — resulting in improved tear film quality and quantity and the elimination or lessening of dry eye symptoms.
What to Expect during your Treatment?
The RF treatment is a quick and painless in-office procedure that offers immediate symptom relief.
During the treatment, you will be asked to close your eyes as your eye doctor gently massages your upper eyelid and the skin underneath your lower eyelid with a specialized heat generating tool.
This heat triggers collagen formation in the skin around the eyes to reduce the inflammation that may be contributing to your MGD symptoms.
The RF treatment is beneficial for chronic MGD, as it facilitates effective meibomian gland expression, tightens the collagen in the skin around the eyes to reduce inflammation, and stimulates the collagen production in the deeper layers of the skin for longer-lasting treatment results.
Can you Benefit from Inmode Forma Radiofrequency?
If you or a loved one is suffering from chronic dry eyes, schedule an eye exam to determine whether MGD is causing your symptoms. Our practice uses Inmode Forma RF to help patients with MGD achieve optimal results and longer-lasting symptom relief.
If you wish to learn more about this effective treatment, and to find out whether you could benefit, contact Mascoutah Eye Care today!
Our practice serves patients from Mascoutah, Belleville, O'Fallon, and Edwardsville, Illinois and surrounding communities.
