Advanced Dry Eye Treatment

Persistent dryness, irritation, and a gritty sensation in the eyes are more than just a nuisance, they’re often signs of Dry Eye Disease. In Calgary’s dry climate, dry eye disease is especially common and frequently linked to an underlying condition known as Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). 

At Mountain View Optometry, we offer advanced, in-office treatments designed to target the root cause of dry eye and provide long-lasting relief that eye drops alone often can’t achieve.

What Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?

The Meibomian glands, located along the edges of your upper and lower eyelids, produce the essential oils that keep your tear film stable. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, it leads to MGD , one of the most common causes of Dry Eye Disease. 

Common contributing factors include:

  • Age-related changes 
  • Excessive screen time and reduced blinking 
  • Certain medications 
  • Autoimmune conditions 
  • Environmental dryness and forced air systems 
  • Eyelid inflammation or skin laxity 

Over time, untreated MGD can cause permanent damage to these glands, leading to dry eye disease and associated symptoms.

Why We Go Beyond Drops and Compresses

While artificial tears and warm compresses may offer some relief, they often don’t go far enough to treat the root cause of MGD. That’s why our clinic has invested in modern, evidence-based therapies that restore healthy gland function, reduce inflammation, and improve your long-term eye comfort. 

After a personalized dry eye assessment, we’ll recommend the most effective combination of treatments based on your symptoms, eyelid health, and condition of your Meibomian glands. 


Our Advanced Dry Eye Treatments

We offer three advanced, non-invasive therapies for Meibomian Gland Dysfunction. Each one is performed in-office by trained professionals and designed to support lasting improvements in eye comfort and tear film stability.


Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy

IPL uses precisely delivered light pulses to reduce inflammation, improve Meibomian gland health, and treat underlying causes like bacterial overgrowth or Demodex mites. This addresses some of the main causes of dry eye disease, restoring stability in your tear film, improving vision, and reducing symptoms of irritation and discomfort.

Learn more about IPL Therapy


Radio Frequency (RF) Treatment

RF uses gentle thermal energy to warm the eyelids, melt thickened oils, clear gland blockages, and stimulate collagen production. This improves both gland function and eyelid skin tone, particularly helpful if skin laxity is contributing to poor blinking or gland compression.

Learn more about RF Treatment


Jett Plasma Therapy

Jett Plasma is a newly available treatment that delivers controlled plasma energy to the eyelids, stimulating deep tissue regeneration and tightening eyelids by boosting collagen and elastin production. This helps restore healthy eyelid structure and supports long-term Meibomian gland performance.

Learn more about Jet Plasma Treatment


What to Expect During Your Visit

Your dry eye journey begins with a comprehensive assessment, where we evaluate:

   1.OSDI (Ocular Surface Disease Index) 

  • Evaluates visual symptoms and impact on daily life. 

   2.SPEED Test 

  • Assesses frequency and severity of dry eye symptoms.

   3.Interferometry Assesses the lipid layer thickness (LLT) of the tear film. 

  • Uses video analysis. 
  • Helps diagnose evaporative dry eye (Meibomian gland dysfunction). 

   4.Tear Meniscus Height 

  • Measures the volume of your tears 

   5.NIBUT (Non-Invasive Break-Up Time) 

  • Measures the stability of the tear film. 

   6.Meibography 

  • Infrared imaging of meibomian glands in upper and lower lids. 
  • Assesses gland structure and presence of scarring or atrophy. 
  • Helps diagnose Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). 

   7.Osmolarity Test (I-PEN) 

  • Measures tear osmolarity which is an indicator of inflammation 
  • High osmolarity = High inflammation, an indicator of dry eye disease severity. 

   8.Slit Lamp Photos 

  • Baseline imaging of the eye surface. 
  • Shows level of blepharitis, lid laxity, levels of inflammation and redness of the eyelid margins and conjunctiva (whites of the eyes) 


Based on your results, we’ll create a customized treatment plan to target your specific type of Dry Eye Disease. There are nine subtypes of dry eye disease with multiple contributing factors.


Book Your Dry Eye Assessment Today

If you’re tired of relying on eye drops that only mask the problem, it’s time to explore a more effective solution. At MVO, our advanced dry eye treatments are helping Calgarians see and feel better every day. Get the relief your eyes deserve. 

Book your dry eye consultation today


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction?

Symptoms include dryness, burning, red eyes, light sensitivity, blurred vision, and a gritty or foreign body sensation. 

How do IPL, RF, and Jett Plasma compare?

IPL targets inflammation and surface bacteria. RF focuses on clearing gland blockages and tightening eyelid skin. Jett Plasma enhances deeper tissue repair and gland support through plasma energy. Many patients benefit from a combination of these treatments. 

Are these treatments safe and comfortable?

Yes. All three treatments are non-invasive, safe, and well-tolerated. Most patients find the experience comfortable with little to no downtime.