In-office treatment
Dry eye is a chronic and complex condition. Although there is no cure for dry eyes, there are many options for treating dry eyes than ever before. As your disease responds to treatment, your regimen will be tailored for you. At Northwest Family Eye Care we pride ourselves on keeping up to date on all the newest technology for dry eye treatment. Dr.Kaur is a dry eye specialist who offers variety of in-office treatments and is always bringing new and innovative technology into the office.
Punctal Plugs
Punctal plugs are small biocompatible devices that can be inserted into tear ducts to block drainage. This helps to increase the eye's tear film and surface moisture to help relieve certain forms of dry eye. Punctal plugs are devices that are no larger than a grain of rice.
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In many cases, no anesthetic is needed, but an eye drop many used to keep you comfortable.
Prokera
Prokera biologic corneal bandage device that is used to heal and treat eye conditions such as keratitis, moderate to severe dry eye disease, corneal erosions, and many other ocular surface diseases. ​Prokera provides faster and more effective healing of the cornea with less pain, scarring and inflammation, leading to clear corneas and improved clinical outcomes.
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Prokera is a safe, effective treatment provided by a tissue bank regulated by the FDA. The tissue has passed many quality control tests before it is provided to our doctors.
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Zocular Eyelid System Treatment (ZEST)
The Zocular Eyelid System Treatment (ZEST) is an in-office treatment that is performed by using manual exfoliation with a micro-matrix swab. This allows for a more gentle experience while still thoroughly cleaning the lid margin. ​
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ZEST uses a gel cleaner during treatment called Zocushield. This gel is an okra-based formula, which is antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. Okra is also believed to help with production of collagen, which can help with elasticity in the skin around the eyes, helping to keep wrinkles at bay.
Meibomian Gland Expression
Meibum is expressed from meibomian glands to promote the secretion of oil or to clear the blockage. ​Normal meibomian should have the consistency of olive oil. When there is meibomian gland dysfunction, the meibomian may be thicker than usual and sometimes even like a thick paste.
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Expressing meibomian glands can be done with a paddle, rolling forceps or sterile cotton swabs. We heat the lids before the expression is performed. Gentle pressure is applied to the lids so that the meibomian flows out of the opening of glands.
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It is important to perform blinking exercises and follow at-home therapies to keep glands open.
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