BLEPHARITIS TREATMENT

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a chronic eye condition characterized by inflammation of the eyelids. It typically affects the part of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow and can occur in either the upper or lower eyelids. The most common symptoms include redness of the eyelids, irritation and itchiness, crusty eyelids, dry eyes and light sensitivity. There are two main types of blepharitis:

  1. Anterior Blepharitis: This type of blepharitis affects the front part of the eyelids, specifically the area around the base of the eyelashes. It is often caused by factors such as bacterial infections, seborrheic dermatitis (a skin condition that affects the oil glands), and eyelash mites (Demodex).

  2. Posterior Blepharitis: This type of blepharitis is associated with dysfunction of the Meibomian glands, which are oil-producing glands located within the eyelids. Dysfunction of these glands can lead to a decrease in the quality and quantity of the tear film's oily layer. This can result in symptoms similar to those of anterior blepharitis

  • Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses to the closed eyelids can help loosen crusts and soften oils, making it easier to clean the eyelids.

    Lid Scrubs: Gently scrubbing the eyelids with a mild, preservative-free eyelid cleanser can help remove debris and bacteria. Your eye care professional can recommend specific products.

  • Zest Treatment: An in-office treatment, using an okra-derived gel, that alleviates irritation and inflammation by effectively purging bacteria, debris, and oils from the eyelash line.

    This treatment cleans the eyelid margins and opens up the meibomian gland, releasing oils required for a healthy tear film, which can help alleviate dry eye symptoms.

  • Topical Antibiotics: Antibiotic ointments or creams may be prescribed for anterior blepharitis to manage bacterial infections or overgrowth.

    Oral Antibiotics: In cases of severe blepharitis, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics to target infection or inflammation.

  • Topical Steroids: In some cases of posterior blepharitis, your doctor may prescribe topical steroids to reduce inflammation in the eyelids. However, long-term use of steroids should be carefully monitored by a healthcare professional due to potential side effects.

  • For posterior blepharitis, the doctor may recommend in-office procedures to express the Meibomian glands. This helps clear blocked glands and improve the quality of the oily layer of the tear film.

  • These can help relieve dry eye symptoms associated with blepharitis by maintaining the tear film's stability and moisture.

Treatment Options Include:

Zest: Effective Blepharitis Treatment

ZEST, an okra-derived gel, alleviates irritation and inflammation by effectively purging bacteria, debris, and oils from the eyelash line. This in-office procedure involves a careful cleansing of the eyelid margin using the specialized gentle gel and a microsponge, employing circular motions. Once the gel achieves a foamy consistency, it is rinsed with a saline solution.

ZEST is often conducted as a preparatory step before in-office treatments like IPL and low-level light therapy. This ensures a pristine ocular surface, eliminating any debris prior to commencing your chosen treatment.

Additionally, ZEST can also be administered as a stand-alone procedure, most useful before refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK) and cataract surgery.

This 10 minute in-office treatment is comfortable, and produces rapid results. Following just 1 to 2 sessions of the Zest Eyelid System treatment, you can anticipate immediate relief. To maintain the results, we will discuss on eyelid hygiene protocol, which may include eyelid wipes and/or hypochlorous acid spray.

ZEST is an effective treatment for anyone experiencing dry eye symptoms due to a Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, blepharitis (styes/hordeolums) and/or demodex.

Pricing: The cost for the Zest Treatment is $149 - $199