Meibomian Gland Expression
The Meibomian glands are oil-producing glands located in the eyelids. They are responsible for producing an important layer of our tears. The oily layer of the tears prevents the tears from evaporating and plays a role in tear film stability. There are two other layers of the tears, the aqueous layer and the mucin layer. The aqueous layer, the watery layer of the tears, accounts for most of the tear volume and intensifies during emotional responses, such as crying. Meanwhile, the mucin layer is a very thin layer that helps tears adhere to the structures of the eye.
All three of these layers need to work together in a properly functioning tear system. If either of these layers do not function properly, it can cause Dry Eye Syndrome (DES), characterized by symptoms such as burning, itching, redness, a sensation of foreign bodies, mild to moderate vision impairment, and, in severe cases, debilitating ocular pain.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)
Studies have shown that Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) is present in up to 70% of all cases of DES. MGD results when the oily secretion changes consistency and becomes trapped in the gland. Without the oily tear layer, the tears become unstable and evaporate. This leaves the ocular surface exposed and can cause the symptoms of DES to begin. MGD is more prevalent in women and shows an increase in occurrence after the age of 50. 1 It is estimated that 30-40 million people suffer from DES across the United States.
Treatment of MGD
There are a number of different treatments for MGD. These include oral and ocular medications, hot compresses, omega-3 fatty acids and artificial tears to name a few. A dry eye evaluation with Dr. Kresnak will help determine which treatments are best for you. For many patients, Dr. Kresnak recommends a meibomian gland expression. This treatment involves an in-office hot compress followed by a manual expression of the glands with a pair of Tearse Meibum Expressing Forceps. Dr. Kresnak will also capture a video of the procedure, demonstrating the expression of meibum from your glands. MGD expression is not a cure, but it will promote the healthy function of your meibomian glands while making at-home hot compresses more successful. This treatment may need to be repeated in the future.