Dry Eye Disease
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Managing Dry Eye
Dry Eye Care & Cataract Surgery
For those of us living in the desert, dry eye disease can be a common problem. If you are considering cataract surgery, dry eye disease must be addressed beforehand. In 2019, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) adopted an algorithm for diagnosing and treating ocular surface disease. At Desert Vision Center, we use these proven guidelines along with advanced diagnostic, holistic, and therapeutic options to optimize outcomes.
We provide dry eye treatment exclusively for patients preparing for or recovering from cataract surgery to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Customized Eye Care
Personalized Care for Dry Eye
During your initial visit, we perform core dry eye testing and a comprehensive eye exam. If needed, additional evaluations are completed in our CLIA-certified laboratory. Based on results, treatments are fully customized. Many patients find relief without long-term prescriptions, instead benefiting from holistic therapies and in-office procedures tailored to their needs.
Relief for Dry Eye in the Desert
Living in one of the driest climates on Earth can take a toll on your eyes. We use advanced diagnostics and therapies to restore comfort and prepare patients for successful cataract surgery.
Recognizing Early Signs
What Are the Symptoms of Dry Eye?
Dry eye symptoms can vary from irritation to blurred vision. Recognizing early signs helps ensure timely treatment, lasting comfort, and healthier long-term eye function.
- Redness and tearing
- Eye fatigue
- Grittiness
- Fluctuating vision
- Intolerance to contact lenses
- History of eye surgery, including LASIK
What Are the Treatment Options for Dry Eye?
Over-the-counter artificial tear drops, punctal plugs, and prescription medication with Restasis eye drops have been the mainstay of treatment for the past decade. However, new advances in treatment have been developed that provide patients and eye doctors new options to manage dry eye disease. Newer therapies are available at Desert Vision Center that go far beyond the old “Plugs and Drops” approach.
Micro-Blepharo-Exfoliation: BlephEx
BlephEx is a painless office procedure where a medical grade microsponge exfoliates and removes the debris and biofilm that congests the surface of the eyelid margin and meibomian glands. The procedure lasts 6-8 minutes and may be repeated at 3-6 month intervals.
Meibomian Gland Thermal Pulsation: LipiFlow
A healthy tear film is maintained by the secretions of lipids by accessory Meibomian glands on the eyelid. Because lipids stabilize the tear film, any disruption in the Meibomian gland function results in increased destabilization and evaporation of the tear film. An office procedure, called LipiFlow, clears obstructed meibomian gland contents. Maximum results of the therapy are achieved 6-8 weeks after the procedure and most patients have sustained relief for 12-36 months.
Intense Pulsed Light: IPL
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) targets the major source of inflammation that threatens the eyelids in patients with dry eye, meibomian gland dysfunction, and ocular rosacea. IPL closes the blood vessels that transport inflammatory cytokines that cause chronic blockage of the meibomian glands. Once the inflammation and blockage is treated, the meibomian glands can begin to start working again, creating a healthier tear film. IPL is performed in a series 3-4 monthly sessions with re-treatments as necessary.
Advanced Therapy
For severe dry eye patients, biological therapies may be recommended. Biological treatment may include amniotic membrane graft therapy and autologous serum eye drops. Ask your doctor if these treatment options are right for you
If you are considering cataract surgery and have dry eye disease, contact Desert Vision Center for a dry eye disease consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Dry Eye Disease
Dry eye occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. Common causes include aging, desert climate, long hours on screens, certain medications, and underlying health conditions.
Typical symptoms include redness, tearing, grittiness, fluctuating vision, eye fatigue, intolerance to contact lenses, and discomfort after eye surgery such as LASIK.
At Desert Vision Center, we use advanced diagnostic testing, including tear film analysis and ocular surface imaging, alongside a comprehensive eye exam. Additional testing may be performed in our CLIA-certified laboratory if needed.
Treatments range from over-the-counter artificial tears and prescription drops to advanced in-office procedures such as BlephEx®, LipiFlow®, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), and biological therapies. Customized plans are designed based on your test results and needs.
Not always. Many patients achieve lasting relief with holistic therapies and in-office procedures rather than daily medications. Your treatment plan is tailored to your condition and lifestyle.
Attention Patients
Dear Valued Patients of Desert Vision Center,
Dr. Tokuhara is a highly skilled cataract surgeon, specializing in advanced anterior segment surgeries, including complex glaucoma and cataract procedures. He focuses on patients who need surgical intervention or are at risk of severe vision loss.
While Dr. Tokuhara offers comprehensive eye care for his own surgical patients, he does not provide general eye care or post-operative care for patients of other surgeons. When you choose Dr. Tokuhara, he becomes your trusted eye doctor for life. A Note About Ethical Care
In our community, some providers engage in illegal financial kickbacks accepting payments for cataract surgery referrals. Desert Vision Center firmly rejects this unethical practice. We follow the highest ethical standards, complying with the Anti-Kickback Statute and Stark Law, ensuring that your care in never influenced by financial incentives.
We believe referrals should always be based on what’s best for the patient—not financial gain. If you’re being evaluated for cataract surgery, we encourage you to ask questions and be mindful of these referral arrangements.
Choose the surgeon who prioritizes your vision and your well-being—not one chosen for someone else’s profit.
Sincerely,
Desert Vision Center