Intraductal Meibomian Gland Probing

The goal in dry eye management is to treat the condition early before advanced structural changes occur within the meibomian glands. In some patients with severe meibomian gland dysfunction, scarring or strictures called “periductal fibrosis” may occur throughout the ducts of the meibomian glands. These act like tiny “nooses” around glands that prevent the deeper areas of the gland from secreting oil with a normal blink. For these severe cases, intraductal meibomian gland probing may be necessary to clear the obstructions within the meibomian glands.

During this in-office procedure, a small probe is inserted gently into the orifice of each meibomian gland in order to release the periductal fibrosis. A popping sound may be heard by the patient as the pressure is released from within the gland. Usually, the patient will require two visits to complete the procedure as only one eye is completed at a time. The probing is often combined with an intense pulsed light treatment to reduce inflammation in the gland and either LipiFlow or a Radiofrequency treatment to clear the old stagnant oil from within the glands.

Call Dry Eye Center of Florida for a consultation to see which dry eye treatment is right for you. (321) 503-2823