If you’ve tried artificial tears or prescription drops but still suffer from burning, gritty, or watery eyes, the issue might be deeper than surface irritation. For many patients, dry eye stems from a condition called meibomian gland dysfunction—and addressing the glands directly is the key to long-term relief.
That’s where OptiLight® and OptiLift™ come in. At Custom Eye Care at the Rim, these comfortable in-office treatments help restore your tear glands and improve the quality of your tears—while also offering added cosmetic benefits. Let’s explore how they work and why patients in San Antonio are choosing these innovative therapies.
Why Treat Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?
Along your upper and lower eyelids are tiny oil glands called meibomian glands. They’re responsible for producing the oil layer of your tear film, which keeps your tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands get clogged or inflamed, your tears can’t do their job—and symptoms like burning, watering, and blurred vision begin.
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is one of the leading causes of dry eye in adults, especially those exposed to long hours of screen time, air conditioning, or allergens. Dr. Elaine uses meibography to assess these glands during your dry eye evaluation and may recommend treatment with OptiLight or OptiLift if they’re not functioning properly.
What Is OptiLight®?
OptiLight is an intense pulsed light (IPL) treatment designed to restore the function of your meibomian glands. Originally developed in dermatology, IPL was found to significantly improve dry eye symptoms in patients with skin conditions like rosacea—which often goes hand-in-hand with dry eye.
Here's how it works:
- A series of light pulses are gently applied to the skin below your eyes and across your cheeks.
- The light targets inflammation and dilated blood vessels, helping to reduce redness and promote better gland performance.
- Over time, your glands become more functional, your tears retain moisture longer, and dry eye symptoms improve.
“OptiLight was developed after dermatologists noticed that patients getting IPL for rosacea also saw relief from dry eye symptoms,” said Dr. Vlasak. “Now, we use this technology specifically to target the underlying cause.”
Bonus: It also helps reduce visible redness and may lighten freckles or age spots, leaving your skin clearer and more even-toned.
What Is OptiLift™?
OptiLift takes your treatment one step further by stimulating and warming the muscles and glands around your eyes. It uses dynamic muscle stimulation and thermal energy to:
- Improve the quality and flow of your meibomian gland secretions
- Enhance your blink strength and frequency
- Gently tighten the eyelid muscles for better gland expression
This double-action treatment promotes both functional and cosmetic improvements. Not only can it ease dry eye symptoms, but it may also help reduce puffiness and under-eye bags. “It’s like a mini blepharoplasty—without surgery,” said Dr. Elaine.
Is It Comfortable?
Yes. Most patients find both OptiLight and OptiLift very tolerable. You may feel a brief warm sensation or tingling, but the procedures are quick and easy to complete in-office.
“We explain everything as we go,” added Dr. Elaine. “Our goal is for you to feel completely informed and comfortable from start to finish.”
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
These treatments typically involve a series of sessions spaced over several weeks. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your specific condition and how your glands respond. Many patients begin to see improvement after just a few appointments.
Are There Any Side Benefits?
Absolutely. In addition to relieving dry eye symptoms, patients have noticed:
- Reduction in facial redness, particularly from rosacea
- Smoother under-eye area with fewer visible fine lines
- Brighter, clearer skin tone
That makes OptiLight and OptiLift an appealing option not only for symptom relief but also for those looking for subtle cosmetic enhancement.
Experience Advanced Dry Eye Treatment in San Antonio
At Custom Eye Care at the Rim, we believe in going beyond quick fixes. OptiLight and OptiLift treatments allow us to restore tear gland function, improve comfort, and help you enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision every day.
Located at 17815 La Cantera Pkwy #111, San Antonio, TX 78257, we welcome new and returning patients seeking real, lasting solutions. Call us at 210-981-3937 or request your appointment online today.
Say goodbye to the cycle of artificial tears—and hello to a brighter, more comfortable tomorrow. Your eyes deserve it.
Saturday hours are available by appointment only as our hours vary*