Dry eye and meibomian gland dysfunction are chronic conditions, but they are manageable. With the right combination of treatment and self-care, most patients experience a substantial improvement in their symptoms. The key is understanding the cause and committing to a consistent routine.
Dry eye is not a single condition — it has two main subtypes, which often co-exist.
The lacrimal gland does not produce enough aqueous (watery) tears to keep the eye surface adequately moist. This is less common than evaporative dry eye.
Common causes:
The meibomian glands in the eyelids become blocked or produce poor-quality oil, so the tear film evaporates too quickly. This is the most common cause of dry eye — responsible for around 85% of cases.
Common causes:
Dry eye is not a single condition — it has two main subtypes, which often co-exist.
The lacrimal gland does not produce enough aqueous (watery) tears to keep the eye surface adequately moist. This is less common than evaporative dry eye.
Common causes:
The meibomian glands in the eyelids become blocked or produce poor-quality oil, so the tear film evaporates too quickly. This is the most common cause of dry eye — responsible for around 85% of cases.
Common causes:
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Treatment for dry eye and MGD is not one-size-fits-all. For most patients, treatment involves a tailored programme of self-care combined with clinical intervention.
Alongside any treatment your consultant prescribes, there is a great deal you can do at home to reduce the impact of dry eye on your daily life.
Area | Practical advice |
Screen use | Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Make a conscious effort to blink fully and frequently. |
Environment | Use a humidifier in dry or air-conditioned rooms. |
Warm compresses | Make warm compresses and lid massage a daily habit — even on days when symptoms feel manageable. |
Diet | Consider increasing oily fish intake or taking omega-3 supplements. Good hydration supports tear film quality. |
Contact lenses | Switch to daily disposable lenses if possible. Reduce wear time, particularly in the evenings. Ask about dry eye-compatible lens materials. |
Cosmetics | Remove eye makeup thoroughly each night. Avoid applying liner to the inner rim of the eyelid (waterline), which can block meibomian gland openings. |
Medications | If you take antihistamines, antidepressants, or diuretics, discuss with your GP whether these may be contributing to your symptoms. |
Dry eye and MGD are chronic conditions — for most people there is no single cure, but symptoms can be very well controlled with the right approach. It is important to understand that treatment is a process rather than an event, and that different patients respond to different treatments.
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You’ll receive tailored aftercare guidance and be invited for a review appointment 2-3 weeks after your first session to ensure results are natural and you’re happy. We also encourage feedback and Google reviews from our patients.
Most people notice improvements after 3-5 days, with full results visible by two weeks.
Most people notice improvements after 3-5 days, with full results visible by two weeks.
Most people notice improvements after 3-5 days, with full results visible by two weeks.
Most people notice improvements after 3-5 days, with full results visible by two weeks.
Most people notice improvements after 3-5 days, with full results visible by two weeks.
Most people notice improvements after 3-5 days, with full results visible by two weeks.
Most people notice improvements after 3-5 days, with full results visible by two weeks.
Most people notice improvements after 3-5 days, with full results visible by two weeks.
