Vision Care Services

TearCare

TearCare for dry eye and blocked oil glands.

TearCare is an in-office dry eye treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). Soft, flexible patches are placed on the outside of your eyelids and deliver steady, controlled heat that melts the thickened oil in blocked glands. Right after, your doctor clears the glands by hand so healthy oil can flow again.

You can keep your eyes open and blink normally during treatment. The heating portion takes about 15 minutes, and most people go right back to their day.

Steady, controlled heatWarms the eyelid glands evenly, beyond what a warm compress can do.

In-office gland expressionYour doctor clears the softened oil right after the heat.

Back to your dayNo downtime. You can drive and use screens right after.

Who TearCare is for

Evaporative dry eye from blocked oil glands (MGD)
Burning, gritty or tired eyes that don’t improve with artificial tears and warm compresses
Repeat styes and chalazia
Contact lens wearers whose lenses get uncomfortable
Patients preparing for cataract surgery or LASIK whose tear film needs improving

What to expect

We confirm MGD with an exam, tear breakup time and, at East Lake, meibography
The TearCare patches are placed on your upper and lower eyelids
About 15 minutes of gentle heat while you relax with your eyes open
Your doctor expresses the glands at the slit lamp
A home care plan and a follow-up visit to check your glands

What the research shows

In the SAHARA randomized trial, published in 2023, a single TearCare treatment improved dry eye signs and symptoms, with results comparable to six months of twice-daily cyclosporine drops (Restasis). Results vary, and many patients combine TearCare with lid hygiene and prescription drops.

How often

Many patients notice relief after one treatment. Because MGD is long-term, some patients repeat TearCare periodically. We’ll recommend a schedule based on how your glands respond.

Common questions

What is TearCare?

TearCare is an in-office dry eye treatment. Flexible patches warm the eyelids to melt blocked oil in the meibomian glands, and your doctor then clears the glands by hand.

Does TearCare hurt?

Most patients find the heat soothing. Gland expression can feel like pressure for a moment. Your eyes stay open and you can blink normally.

How long does TearCare last?

Many patients feel relief for months. MGD is long-term, so some patients repeat treatment, and home care helps it last.

Is TearCare covered by insurance?

TearCare may not be covered by insurance. We’ll explain the cost before treatment. HSA and FSA cards are accepted.

TearCare or Restasis?

They work in different ways. TearCare clears blocked oil glands; cyclosporine drops like Restasis reduce inflammation. Many patients do best with a combination, and we’ll recommend what fits your exam.