Dry eye has several different causes, and the right treatment depends on which one you have. Dr. Jacquelyn Lamigo and Dr. Christie Stemmle find the cause first, then build a plan around it.
Treatment depends on the cause. Mild dry eye often responds to lubricating drops or prescription medication. When blocked oil glands are the cause (meibomian gland dysfunction), we treat that in our Anchorage office with iLux or IPL. For stubborn cases we also offer BlephEx lid cleaning, punctal plugs, amniotic membranes, and specialty contact lenses.
Having every option in one office means we can match the treatment to the kind of dry eye you actually have. You are not sent elsewhere for the one treatment we do not offer. We use lasers elsewhere in the practice too, including SLT for glaucoma and YAG after cataract surgery.
Alaska's dry winter air and indoor heating make dry eye especially common in Anchorage.
Lubricating drops help mild cases. For more persistent dry eye, we may prescribe cyclosporine or steroid eye drops, or a nasal spray that stimulates tear production.
iLux is a handheld device that applies gentle heat and pressure to the eyelids to open blocked meibomian glands. This in-office procedure targets meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), one of the most common causes of dry eye.
IPL uses pulses of light to treat dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction. It helps melt and release blocked oils, reduces inflammation, and stimulates gland function.
A professional eyelid cleaning using a medical-grade handheld device with a spinning micro-sponge tip. It removes bacteria, biofilm, and debris from the eyelids and lashes.
These thin membranes contain stem cells and growth factors with anti-inflammatory and anti-scarring properties. They help the surface of the eye heal when dry eye has damaged the cornea.
Tiny devices placed in the tear ducts to slow tear drainage, so tears stay on the surface of the eye longer.
Some specialty contact lenses are designed to protect the surface of the eye and keep it moist throughout the day. They can help people whose dry eye has not improved with other treatments. Our doctors will let you know if they are a good option for you.
A full check of your vision and eye health, including screening for dry eye.
Lens options and fittings for people whose eyes get dry or uncomfortable in contacts.
Medicare, Medicaid, Premera Blue Cross, Federal BCBS, Moda, TriWest, VSP, and many more.
It can be. Alaska's dry winter air, indoor heating, and wind all pull moisture from the eyes, so many Anchorage patients notice their symptoms get worse in winter. Our doctors can help you manage it year round.
Call 907-561-1167 to schedule a dry eye evaluation in Anchorage.