Have Your Meibomian Glands Shut Down? Here’s What Probing Can Do

If you struggle with dry, irritated eyes, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans suffer from dry eye disease, and one of the most common causes is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). But what happens when your Meibomian glands become so blocked or damaged that they effectively shut down? Fortunately, innovative treatments like Meibomian gland probing are providing hope for those with even severe MGD.
 

What Are the Meibomian Glands?

The Meibomian glands are tiny oil-producing glands located along the edge of your eyelids. Their primary job is to secrete the oil (lipid) layer of your tears, which helps prevent your tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands are functioning properly, your eyes stay comfortable and your vision remains clear.
 

When Meibomian Glands Become Dysfunctional

Over time, factors like age, chronic inflammation, eyelid disorders, or simply not blinking enough can cause the Meibomian glands to become blocked. When left untreated, these blockages can cause the glands to atrophy, become scarred, and eventually shut down. When the glands stop producing oil, the tear film becomes unstable, leading to persistent dry eye symptoms that can significantly impact your quality of life.
 

How Meibomian Gland Probing Can Help

For patients whose Meibomian glands are severely blocked or shut down, traditional treatments like warm compresses or artificial tears may not be enough. This is where Meibomian gland probing comes in.
 

Meibomian gland probing is an in-office procedure designed to physically open up the blocked glands. Using a tiny, specially designed probe, your eye doctor gently inserts the instrument into each gland’s opening along your eyelid margin. The probing process breaks through any scar tissue or obstructions inside the gland, restoring the natural pathway for oil to flow.
 

Benefits of Meibomian Gland Probing

• Restores Gland Function: Probing can help “wake up” glands that have been inactive, allowing them to produce oil again.

• Reduces Inflammation and Discomfort: By clearing the blockages, probing helps reduce chronic inflammation and relieves irritation.

• Enhances Results of Other Therapies: After probing, other dry eye treatments (like heat therapy or medications) often become more effective.

• Long-Lasting Relief: Many patients report lasting improvements in symptoms following the procedure.
   

What to Expect During the Procedure

Meibomian gland probing is generally quick and well-tolerated. Your eye doctor will numb your eyelids with a local anesthetic before beginning. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the procedure. Some may feel a temporary sensation of pressure or mild stinging. After probing, you may be prescribed lubricating drops or medications to support healing and maximize results.
 

Is Meibomian Gland Probing Right for You?

If you’ve tried other dry eye therapies without relief, or if your eye doctor suspects your Meibomian glands are severely blocked or shut down, probing may be an excellent option. The best way to determine if you’re a candidate is through a comprehensive dry eye evaluation, including a careful examination of your eyelid glands.
 

To find out if Meibomian gland probing could help you, contact Offen Eye Associates to schedule your dry eye evaluation and take the first step toward healthier eyelids. Visit our office in Westfield, New Jersey, or call (908) 378-3200 to book an appointment today.