What is a Mastrota paddle?
The Mastrota paddle is designed to gently express meibum from the MGs (Figure 2). The Mastrota paddle can be positioned behind the eyelid parallel to the glands. Gentle digital pressure, or pressure with a cotton-tipped applicator, on the outer lid prompts meibum secretion.
Can I express my own Meibomian glands?
Can you do meibomian gland expression at home? No, it is usually better to have it done in-clinic. Some eye specialists may also recommend regular expression at home as part of a continuous MGD management and treatment plan.
How do you use a meibomian gland expressor?
To express the inferior meibomian glands, pull the nasal aspect of the lower lid inferiorly to expose the meibomian gland pores and palpebral conjunctiva. Apply the expressor paddle (or cotton-tip applicator) to the palpebral conjunctiva at a point midway between the fornix and the lashes.
What are Meibomian glands?
Meibomian glands are the tiny oil glands which line the margin of the eyelids (the edges which touch when the eyelids are closed). These glands secrete oil which coats the surface of our eyes and keeps the water component of our tears from evaporating (drying out).
What is LipiFlow treatment for dry eyes?
LipiFlow® is an FDA-approved treatment for Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) — the leading cause of dry eye. LipiFlow® treats MGD by warming and massaging the inside of the eyelids to restore healthy oil production and improve tear quality.
How can I unclog my eyelid glands?
Put a warm, wet washcloth or heat pack over your eyelids for 5 minutes, twice a day, to help loosen the oil. Follow this with a light fingertip massage. For the upper lid, look down and very gently roll one side of your index finger from the top of your eyelid down to the lash line.
How do you unblock meibomian glands naturally?
Poor secretions should be treated by lid hygiene and massaged with a moist cotton tip in order to remove debris from the eye and increase blood flow so as to open up occluded meibomian glands. Warm compresses will also unblock the glands, as a higher compress temperature will liquefy viscous meibum.
How often should you do meibomian gland expression?
This helps to rinse away the extra oil from gland expression and/or any residue from the lid scrub. MGD patients also typically have dry eye, so tears are often recommended between two and four times per day.
Is LipiFlow worth the money?
Is It Worth it? If having dry eyes is driving you nuts and medications and eye drops aren’t doing anything, then yes, LipiFlow is absolutely worth it.
Is LipiFlow treatment painful?
The procedure is not painful. Many patients describe a sensation similar to a gentle massage to the eyes. You may experience a little discomfort the first hour after LipiFlow, but it will go away quickly.
What is the difference between a Hordeolum and chalazion?
When a stye occurs inside the eyelid, it is called an internal hordeolum (say “hor-dee-OH-lum”). A chalazion (say “kuh-LAY-zee-on”) is a lump in the eyelid. Chalazia (plural) may look like styes, but they are usually larger and may not hurt.