Dry Eye

Dry Eye Syndrome (DES)

Key Facts About Dry Eye Syndrome

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  • Prevalence: Dry eye is one of the most common reasons patients visit their eye doctor. Statistics indicate that 10 to 20 percent of the U.S. population suffers from dry eye.

  • Causes: The condition arises from abnormal or insufficient tear production, leading to eye irritation and inflammation. This inflammation can damage ocular structures, creating a cycle of worsening symptoms and inflammation.

  • Demographics: Dry eye can affect anyone but is more common in females than males. Approximately 3.2 million women and 1.68 million men over the age of 50 in the U.S. are affected. The prevalence increases with age, particularly among women post-menopause.

  • Symptoms: Common symptoms include dryness, scratchiness, burning or stinging, tired eyes, general discomfort, blurred or variable vision, sensitivity to light, gritty sensation, contact lens intolerance, and tear debris. Some patients may experience paradoxical “reflex” tearing due to eye surface irritation.

  • Causes: Common causes include aging, allergies, poor diet, environmental factors, hormonal changes, health conditions (e.g., diabetes, arthritis, lupus, thyroid dysfunction), treatments (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation), acne rosacea, contact lens use, computer use, and a history of LASIK surgery. Certain medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, decongestants, acne treatments, diuretics, and some blood pressure medications, can also contribute to dry eye symptoms.
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Do I Have Dry Eye Syndrome?

​​​​​​​Dry eye syndrome occurs when your eyes do not produce enough quality tears to keep them properly lubricated. Tears are crucial for maintaining healthy eyes and clear vision.

This condition is common, especially among older adults, and often becomes a chronic issue. With every blink, tears spread across the cornea, the front surface of the eye, providing essential lubrication, reducing the risk of infections, washing away debris, and keeping the eye’s surface smooth and clear. Excess tears flow into small drainage ducts at the inner corners of the eyelids, which lead to the back of the nose. Dry eye syndrome happens when there’s an imbalance between tear production and drainage.

People with dry eyes either produce insufficient tears or tears that are of poor quality. This condition can be diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, focusing on the quantity and quality of tears your eyes produce.

Treatments for dry eyes aim to restore or maintain the normal tear levels to minimize dryness and discomfort and to preserve eye health. Although dry eye can be a chronic condition, the doctors at Southwest Vision Center can prescribe treatments to keep your eyes comfortable and maintain your vision. Our primary treatment approaches include:
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  • Using over-the-counter artificial tear solutions

  • Conserving tears

  • Increasing tear production

  • Treating inflammation of the eyelids or eye surface that contributes to dry eyes


At Southwest Vision Center, we are dedicated to helping you manage and treat dry eyes effectively, ensuring your eyes remain healthy and your vision clear.

Discover PROKERA®: A Revolutionary Treatment for Chronic Dry Eye

We are excited to introduce PROKERA®, an innovative treatment designed to heal your eye’s surface (cornea) and restore it to a healthy, normal state.


How PROKERA® Works

PROKERA® is a straightforward procedure that can be easily inserted and removed in our office. Once removed, your cornea is rejuvenated, providing relief from chronic dry eye.


Proven Results

In a recent patient survey, 93% of those with dry eye reported feeling better after treatment with PROKERA®.


What is PROKERA®?

PROKERA® functions similarly to a contact lens and is made from amniotic tissue, known for its natural healing properties. This unique tissue helps your eye heal faster with less pain, scarring, and inflammation. The amniotic tissue used in PROKERA® is sourced from an FDA-regulated tissue bank and has undergone extensive quality control tests, ensuring its safety and effectiveness.


Benefits of PROKERA®

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  • Reduces Signs and Symptoms of Dry Eye: Clinical studies show that PROKERA® significantly alleviates dry eye symptoms.
  • Promotes Faster Healing: The natural therapeutic actions of amniotic tissue accelerate the healing process.
  • Minimizes Pain and Inflammation: Patients experience less discomfort and inflammation during the healing process.
  • Improves Vision: PROKERA® not only soothes pain but also enhances vision.


FDA-Cleared and Safe

PROKERA® is the only therapeutic device cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that reduces inflammation and promotes healing.


For more information, visit www.prokerainfo.com.


​​​​​​​Experience the benefits of PROKERA® and enjoy healthier, clearer vision with Southwest Vision Center.

iProElite IPL Therapy

Relief for Dry Eye, Redness & Inflammation

iProElite IPL is a gentle, light-based treatment designed to help reduce inflammation, improve dry eye symptoms, and minimize redness around the eyes.


Using controlled pulses of light, IPL targets areas of inflammation and visible blood vessels while also supporting healthier function of the oil glands along the eyelids.


How iProElite IPL Helps Dry Eye

Many cases of dry eye are caused by Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, or MGD. These glands produce the oils that help keep tears from evaporating too quickly.


IPL treatment can help improve oil gland function and support a healthier, more stable tear film. This may provide relief from symptoms such as:


  • Burning or stinging
  • Gritty or sandy eyes
  • Excessive watering
  • Redness
  • Irritation
  • Fluctuating vision


Redness & Skin Rejuvenation

In addition to helping with dry eye, iProElite IPL can also improve the appearance of redness around the eyes.


By targeting visible blood vessels and calming inflammation, treatment may help create a clearer, more even-looking skin tone.


Who May Benefit from iProElite IPL?

iProElite IPL may be recommended for patients experiencing:


  • Dry eye
  • Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
  • Ocular rosacea
  • Chronic eyelid or facial redness
  • Burning, irritation, or watery eyes
  • Visible redness or uneven skin tone around the eyes


What to Expect

IPL is performed comfortably in our office. Protective eye shields are placed over your eyes, and a cooling gel is applied to the treatment area.


During treatment, you may feel a mild warming or snapping sensation. Sessions are typically quick, and there is little to no downtime for most patients.


Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and eye health and recommend a personalized treatment plan based on your needs.


Find Relief from Dry Eye & Inflammation

If dry eye, irritation, or redness is affecting your comfort, iProElite IPL may be a good option for you.


Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about iProElite IPL therapy.

Surgical AmnioGraft® Outcomes

Advanced Treatment with AmnioGraft®

For more severe cases of Dry Eye, especially where surgical intervention is necessary, AmnioGraft® offers an advanced solution. This FDA-cleared surgical graft is made from amniotic tissue, renowned for its exceptional healing properties.


When to Consider AmnioGraft®

AmnioGraft® is particularly effective in treating severe Dry Eye conditions, such as conjunctivochalasis Dry Eye. Its natural therapeutic actions help promote faster healing, reduce inflammation, and improve overall eye health.


Choose AmnioGraft® for a proven, effective treatment option in severe Dry Eye cases, ensuring the best possible surgical outcomes and long-term eye health.

Only in the Dowagiac location.

Unique, Customized Treatments

Whether you experience mild Dry Eye that causes discomfort or severe chronic Dry Eye that impacts your daily activities and quality of life, Bio-Tissue’s products offer effective solutions when artificial tears and other treatments fall short. Consult your doctor about these innovative treatments today.


Treatment Benefits

Treating Dry Eye can be challenging. Traditional options often address either inflammation or healing, but not both, and may come with side effects. Bio-Tissue’s range of products are designed to:

  • Heal Your Cornea: Promote the natural healing process of your eye.
  • Reduce Inflammation and Promote Healing: Address both inflammation and healing for comprehensive care.
  • Restore Your Tear Reservoir: Bring your tear production back to its natural state.
  • Maintain Healthy Eyes: Prevent future symptoms and ensure long-term eye health.


Patient Success Story

“I tried numerous drops and treatments for my chronic dry eyes, but had no relief until treated with PROKERA. Within days my eyes felt much better!” – Patient with Dry Eye Disease


​​​​​​​Discover the benefits of Bio-Tissue’s products for effective Dry Eye treatment and enjoy healthier, more comfortable eyes.

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