LipiFlow is the most established in-office treatment for blocked meibomian glands — the cause behind most dry eye. It warms the glands from the inner surface of the eyelid while gently expressing the blocked oil, in a single twelve-minute treatment. The questions patients ask us most, answered below.
A sterile, single-use activator sits over each eye. Its inner surface warms the eyelids from behind — where the meibomian glands actually are — to around 42.5°C, the temperature at which stagnant, thickened oil liquefies. At the same time a soft outer bladder applies gentle pulses of pressure that express the softened oil out of the glands. Heating from behind and expressing from in front is what a warm flannel can never do.
No. Most patients describe warmth and a gentle massaging pressure; many find it pleasant. Numbing drops are used for comfort, the treatment takes about twelve minutes for both eyes, and you can drive home afterwards.
Studies of a single treatment show gland function improvements lasting many months — commonly nine to twelve, sometimes longer — but this genuinely varies between patients, depending on how advanced the gland disease is and how well home care is maintained. Your clinician will re-measure your tear film at review rather than promise a fixed duration.
Patients with obstructive meibomian gland dysfunction — glands that are blocked but still alive. Gland imaging (meibography) before treatment shows exactly how much functioning tissue remains, which is why the assessment comes first: LipiFlow cannot revive glands already lost to atrophy, and we will tell you honestly if that is your situation.
LipiFlow physically unblocks the glands; IPL treats the inflammation that made them sick. Many patients benefit from both, sequenced. There are no head-to-head randomised trials proving one superior — the honest answer is that your findings decide.
LipiFlow is one of the best-studied dry eye devices: the American Academy of Ophthalmology's technology assessment concluded thermal pulsation improves the signs and symptoms of MGD with a good safety profile, and randomised trials show meaningful improvements in tear film stability and symptom scores. Effect sizes over control are real but modest — LipiFlow is a precise tool within a staged plan, not a standalone cure, and we frame it that way.
Usually yes, at reduced intensity. LipiFlow clears the obstruction; daily habits — complete blinking, lid hygiene, a proper heat mask — protect the result. Think of it like dental hygiene after a professional clean.
Please note: not every treatment is available at every member practice of the Dry Eye Specialist Group. Your nearest practice will confirm what is available locally and can refer you within the group if a specific treatment suits your eyes.
See Our TreatmentsRead the research behind LipiFlow, or compare all options in which dry eye treatment is right for you.
Our experienced Dry Eye Specialists are here to assess your symptoms and recommend a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting comfort and clearer vision.
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