Eyelid Expression

If you're experiencing chronic dry eyes, irritation, or fluctuating vision, you may be suffering from meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)—a leading cause of evaporative dry eye disease. One of the most effective treatments your eye care provider may recommend is meibomian gland expression, a procedure designed to restore healthy oil flow in your tear film.

At our office, we combine cutting-edge technology—including OptiLight IPL and Forma-I radiofrequency (RF)—to enhance the comfort and effectiveness of meibomian gland expression.

What Are Meibomian Glands?

The meibomian glands are small oil-producing glands located in your eyelids. They secrete meibum, an essential oil that coats your tear film and prevents tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, your eyes may feel dry, gritty, and irritated—a condition known as meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

What Is Meibomian Gland Expression?

Meibomian gland expression is an in-office procedure that helps unclog blocked glands, allowing them to release healthy oils again. This is done by applying gentle pressure to the eyelids to express the built-up oil. At our practice, we use IPL and RF therapy beforehand to warm the glands and improve the treatment outcome.

Our Treatment Process: IPL + RF + Expression

1. Step 1: OptiLight IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

We begin with OptiLight IPL, a light-based therapy that:

  • Reduces inflammation around the eyelids

  • Treats abnormal blood vessels that contribute to MGD

  • Prepares the skin and glands by gently warming the tissue

This step is safe, quick, and non-invasive, and it significantly improves comfort during gland expression.

2. Step 2: Forma-I Radiofrequency (RF)

Next, we apply Forma-I RF, which delivers controlled thermal energy to the eyelid area. This:

  • Further softens and loosens the hardened oil in the glands

  • Stimulates collagen production and improves eyelid tone

  • Enhances gland drainage for better expression results

RF is completely painless and feels like a warm massage.

3. Step 3: Meibomian Gland Expression

Once the glands have been properly warmed and softened, your provider will:

  • Apply gentle pressure along the eyelid margins using a sterile tool or their fingers

  • Express the trapped oil from the glands

  • Clear the blockages to restore healthy tear film production

This part of the procedure may cause mild pressure but is generally well-tolerated.

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

The full treatment session—including IPL, RF, and expression—typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your condition, multiple sessions may be recommended for optimal results.

Aftercare and What to Expect

  • Some patients may experience mild redness or warmth around the eyelids for a few hours.

  • You may notice immediate relief from dryness, though full results build over several sessions.

  • Your provider may recommend artificial tears, omega-3 supplements, or maintenance therapy to support long-term improvement.

Benefits of Meibomian Gland Expression with IPL & RF

  • Treats the root cause of dry eye: blocked oil glands

  • Improves tear film stability and comfort

  • Reduces inflammation and irritation

  • Non-invasive and well-tolerated

  • Enhances results when combined with aesthetic treatments like TriLift for those interested in eyelid tightening and rejuvenation

Is This Treatment Right for You?

You may be a candidate for this advanced dry eye therapy if you experience:

  • Burning, itchy, or watery eyes

  • Chronic eye fatigue

  • Fluctuating or blurry vision

  • A diagnosis of MGD or evaporative dry eye

Our team will perform a thorough evaluation, including imaging of your meibomian glands (meibography), to determine if this treatment is appropriate for your specific needs.

Get Relief from Dry Eyes—Book a Consultation Today

If you're tired of over-the-counter drops that don’t offer lasting relief, schedule an appointment to learn more about our comprehensive meibomian gland treatment protocol using OptiLight IPL, Forma-I RF, and professional gland expression. We're here to help you restore clarity and comfort to your vision.