Are Your Oil Glands Clogging Your Vision? Understanding MGD

Have you ever felt like your eyes just won’t stay comfortable - no matter how many drops you use? The problem might not be your tears but the oil glands in your eyelids. Known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), this condition occurs when those glands become blocked, disrupting the tear film and leading to symptoms like dryness, irritation, and blurry vision. At Gee Eye Care, we specialize in diagnosing and treating MGD with advanced solutions designed to relieve discomfort and protect your long-term eye health.
 

What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?

Meibomian glands are tiny oil glands located along the edges of your eyelids. These glands produce the essential oils that form the outer layer of your tear film. This oil layer helps prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly, keeping your eyes moist and comfortable.
 

In people with MGD, the glands become blocked or produce poor-quality oil. As a result, your tears evaporate too quickly, leading to dry eyes, irritation, inflammation, and even blurry vision. Over time, untreated MGD can cause permanent gland damage and worsen dry eye symptoms.
 

Signs and Symptoms of MGD

Some of the most common symptoms of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction include:
 

•          Dryness or grittiness in the eyes

•          Red or itchy eyes

•          Blurry vision that improves with blinking

•          Frequent need for artificial tears

•          Eyelid inflammation

•          Burning or stinging sensation

These symptoms can be chronic and may worsen in environments with dry air, prolonged screen use, or exposure to wind or smoke.
 

How Is MGD Treated?

While warm compresses and lid hygiene can offer some relief, they often aren't enough to fully treat MGD. We offer advanced in-office treatments designed to target the root cause of MGD.
 

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy is a light-based treatment that helps reduce inflammation around the eyelids and melts thickened oil blocking the glands. This allows the meibomian glands to function more efficiently and resume healthy oil production. IPL therapy also helps improve the appearance of the skin around the eyes, offering both therapeutic and cosmetic benefits.
 

Radiofrequency (RF) treatment uses gentle heat from radiofrequency waves to stimulate the meibomian glands, improving oil flow and unclogging blockages. RF also helps tighten the skin around the eyes and boost collagen production. Many patients find this treatment soothing and effective at reducing both MGD symptoms and signs of aging.
 

Both IPL and RF are non-invasive, in-office procedures that can be performed in a series of sessions for long-term improvement in gland function and overall eye comfort.
 

Ready to Restore Your Eye Comfort?

If you suspect that your vision problems may be due to clogged oil glands, it’s time to take action. With the right care and advanced treatment options like IPL and RF therapy, relief is within reach.
 

If you’re experiencing dry, irritated eyes or changes in your vision, contact Gee Eye Care to schedule a consultation and learn if you’re a candidate for MGD treatment. Visit our office in Missouri City, Texas, or call (281) 778-9912 to book an appointment today.