Personalized Long-Term Relief for Dry Eyes
Dry, irritated eyes shouldn’t be a daily struggle. At VisionQuest Eyecare, our dry eye specialists, Dr. Deanna Rankin and Dr. Collin Rush in Greenwood and Dr. Terry Null and Dr. Anjali Shah in Fishers, provide advanced, customized treatments to relieve symptoms and restore eye comfort.
Unlike standard eye exams that may overlook underlying causes of dry eye, our specialists conduct in-depth evaluations to determine whether meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), inflammation, or environmental factors are at play. Our goal is to provide lasting relief rather than short-term fixes.
Common Causes of Dry Eye
Dry eye can result from various factors, including:
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD) – Blocked glands in the eyelids prevent the natural production of healthy tears.
- Aging & Hormonal Changes – Tear production slows over time, particularly in women.
- Screen Time & Digital Eye Strain – Prolonged screen use reduces blinking, leading to dryness.
- Contact Lenses & Eye Surgeries – Long-term contact lens wear or procedures like LASIK can affect tear production.
Understanding what’s causing your symptoms is the first step in creating an effective treatment plan.
Specialized Dry Eye Care at Our Dry Eye Spa
At our locations, we offer a dedicated Dry Eye Spa, where we use the latest technology to target the root causes of dryness and irritation. Our treatments include:
- OptiLight IPL Therapy – A non-invasive treatment that reduces inflammation and restores the function of the meibomian glands for healthier tears.
- OptiPLUS RF Therapy – A cutting-edge radiofrequency treatment that improves eye hydration while also rejuvenating the skin around the eyes.
- Comprehensive Dry Eye Evaluations – Using advanced imaging and testing, we assess the tear film and gland function to create a personalized treatment plan.
Our dry eye specialists are dedicated to offering long-term relief rather than temporary solutions.
Personalized Dry Eye Treatments
By learning about and factoring in your lifestyle, our dry eye doctors will help you manage your condition with a personalized treatment plan and lifestyle recommendations. Depending on the cause and severity of your dry eye, we might offer one of the following solutions:
LipiFlow®
LipiFlow® is an FDA-Approved treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction. By applying heat and massaging the inside of your eyelids, this safe and effective tool can unclog your meibomian glands and restore the healthy production of oils in your eyes.
Marco Equinox Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)
Marco Equinox Low-Level Light Therapy is another dry eye treatment for patients with MGD. Using LED lights to unclog your meibomian glands, this quick and painless procedure gently warms your eyelids to release the natural flow of oils.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)
Since MGD causes 80% of dry eye cases, VisionQuest also offers intense pulsed light as a solution. This painless, in-office treatment sends gentle pulses of light to thick secretions on your eyelids to loosen the buildup of oil in your glands and unclog them to promote an enhanced flow.
Supplements
For more mild dry eye cases, supplements can be an easy solution to relieving your symptoms or increasing the effectiveness of other treatments like eye drops. At VisionQuest, we may recommend Physician Recommended Nutraceuticals® (PRN) or Retaine supplements for support.
Eye Drops
When your real tears aren’t functioning properly, using artificial tears may be the solution. Our friendly doctors often recommend over-the-counter eye drops like Retaine MGD, but we may prescribe medications in more severe or unique cases.
Specialty Contact Lenses
Specialty contacts like scleral and RGP lenses are great alternatives to glasses and traditional contacts and can also help with dry eye symptoms. In addition to keeping your eyes hydrated, specialty lenses protect your cornea from external irritants.
Dry Eye Symptoms
If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, you may have dry eye disease:
- Dryness or excessive watering
- Redness
- Irritation
- Burning and stinging
- Itching
- Gritty sensations
- Blurry vision
- Light sensitivity
- Eye fatigue
Dry Eye Causes
The key to getting long-lasting relief for your dry eye is pinpointing its root cause. Since there are many types of dry eye disease, our specialists will look for different causes, including:
- Meibomian gland dysfunction
- Health issues like lupus, diabetes, Graves’ disease, and rheumatoid arthritis
- Certain medications
- Frequent digital screen usage
- Poor blinking habits
- Contact lenses
- Dry environments
Get the Dry Eye Treatments You Deserve
Dry Eye Doctor in Greenwood, IN
Get personalized dry eye treatment from a trusted Dry Eye Doctor in Greenwood, Indiana.
Dry Eye Doctor in Fishers, IN
Get personalized dry eye treatment from a trusted Dry Eye Doctor in Fishers, Indiana.
Why Choose VisionQuest for Dry Eye Treatment?
Many eye care providers only offer basic treatments like artificial tears, which don’t address the root cause of dry eye. At VisionQuest Eyecare, we specialize in advanced therapies to ensure that our patients receive the highest level of care.
- Our Doctors are highly trained in dry eye diagnosis and treatment, focusing on long-term management and relief.
- Our Dry Eye Spa offers the latest in dry eye treatment, including OptiLight IPL and OptiPLUS RF, providing solutions that go beyond artificial tears.
- We create personalized treatment plans based on your unique symptoms, ensuring that we treat the underlying cause, not just the discomfort.
If your dry eye symptoms persist despite using over-the-counter drops, it’s time to explore specialized care.
Long-Term Dry Eye Relief Begins with VisionQuest
Get the expert care your eyes deserve. Schedule a dry eye consultation at VisionQuest Eyecare in Greenwood today and start your journey to lasting relief.
Dry Eye Care FAQ’s
What is dry eye disease?
Dry eye disease occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or your tears evaporate too quickly, resulting in irritation, redness, and blurred vision. It’s a common condition that can affect your daily comfort, visual clarity, and overall eye health.
What are the most common symptoms of dry eye?
Symptoms may include:
- Dryness or excessive watering
- Burning or stinging sensations
- Grittiness or the feeling of something in the eye
- Redness and irritation
- Fluctuating or blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Eye fatigue, especially during screen use
What causes dry eye?
Dry eye can result from several factors, including:
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), which blocks oil glands in the eyelids
- Hormonal changes and aging
- Prolonged screen time, leading to reduced blinking
- Contact lens wear
- Environmental conditions like wind or dry indoor air
- Certain medications or underlying health issues like diabetes or autoimmune disease
How is dry eye diagnosed?
Dry eye is diagnosed through a detailed evaluation that includes a symptom review, a slit-lamp exam, and specialized tests to assess tear film quality, quantity, and gland function. Advanced imaging helps identify underlying causes, such as gland blockages or inflammation.
What treatments are available for dry eye?
Our treatment options are based on the root cause and may include:
- LipiFlow® Thermal Pulsation: Gently heats and massages the eyelids to clear blocked meibomian glands
- Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT): Uses gentle LED energy to reduce inflammation and improve gland function
- OptiLight® IPL and OptiPLUS RF: Advanced therapies to reduce inflammation and rejuvenate the eyelid area
- Prescription and eye drops
- Scleral or specialty contact lenses
- Lifestyle modifications and nutritional support
Think of it as a spa day for your eyes.
What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?
MGD is a leading cause of dry eye and occurs when the glands in your eyelids become clogged and can’t secrete enough oil into your tears. Without this oil layer, tears evaporate too quickly, causing dryness and irritation. Specialized treatments like LipiFlow and LLLT (Low-Level Light Therapy) can restore proper gland function.
Is dry eye treatment painful?
No. Treatments like LipiFlow, LLLT, and OptiLight are non-invasive and generally well-tolerated. Most patients find the procedures relaxing and comfortable in our Dry Eye Spa.
How soon will I feel relief after treatment?
Many patients notice some relief within a few days to weeks, depending on the treatment and severity of symptoms. Full results often improve over time with consistent care and follow-up.
Do I still need eye drops after in-office treatments?
Possibly. In-office treatments help address the underlying causes of dry eye, but some patients may still benefit from artificial tears or prescription drops to manage occasional symptoms, especially during flare-ups.
Can dry eye get worse if left untreated?
Yes. Without proper care, dry eye can become chronic and lead to more serious complications such as corneal damage, increased risk of eye infections, and reduced quality of life. Early treatment helps prevent long-term issues.
How does screen time affect dry eye?
Prolonged use of computers, smartphones, and tablets reduces blink rate, which can dry out the surface of the eye. Taking regular breaks (the 20-20-20 rule), adjusting screen settings, and proper lighting can help minimize strain.
Can contact lenses cause or worsen dry eye?
Yes. Contacts can reduce oxygen flow and interfere with tear film stability, making dry eye symptoms worse. Specialty contact lenses, like scleral lenses, are available to help protect the eyes and maintain moisture for patients with dry eye.
Is dry eye more common in certain seasons?
Yes. Dry, cold winter air and indoor heating systems can reduce humidity and worsen symptoms. Spring allergy season may also trigger eye inflammation. Many patients experience flare-ups in both winter and early spring. However, it’s important to know the difference between dry eye disease and allergy eyes.
Is dry eye related to other health conditions?
Yes. Conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, Sjögren’s syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to dry eye. Certain medications, including antihistamines and blood pressure drugs, can also worsen symptoms.
What lifestyle changes can help manage dry eye?
Helpful strategies include:
- Taking screen breaks to blink more often
- Using a humidifier in dry environments
- Wearing sunglasses to block wind and UV rays
- Staying hydrated
- Eating omega-3 rich foods or taking supplements (if recommended by your doctor)
- Practicing proper eyelid hygiene
Can I wear makeup with dry eye?
Yes, but choose hypoallergenic, oil-free products and avoid applying makeup too close to the lash line. It’s also important to make sure you aren’t using expired make-up. Clean your eyelids thoroughly each day to prevent gland blockages and irritation.
Is dry eye treatment covered by insurance?
Coverage varies by provider and plan. Some treatments may be considered medical while others may be elective. Our team can help you verify your benefits and discuss financing or payment options if needed.
Do I need a referral for dry eye treatment?
No referral is necessary, but you will need to book a comprehensive eye exam with us first to determine if dry eye treatment is the right option for you. Our doctors will then guide you through diagnosis and recommend a personalized treatment plan.
How do I get started with dry eye treatment?
Schedule a comprehensive eye exam at one of our convenient locations. We’ll begin with a thorough evaluation to identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan designed to bring lasting relief.