Helping You Find Relief from Dry Eye
Our team understands how uncomfortable dry eyes can be. That’s why we provide comprehensive dry eye checkups that consider various factors such as tear production and quality, environmental conditions, and screen time habits.
We are committed to helping you alleviate symptoms like eye fatigue, watery eyes, and blurry vision. Our team implements diagnostic technology and treatment methods, including OptiLight by Lumenis, BlephEx, and more to help you find relief.
Contact us to schedule your appointment and address your dry eye discomfort today.
Book AppointmentWhat Causes Dry Eye?
Tear production plays an important role in preventing dry eye, which can occur when something goes wrong with your tear production or the glands that produce tears become inflamed or blocked.
Your tears are made of 3 layers:
- The oily outer layer
- The watery middle layer
- The inner mucus layer
Inflammation of the glands that line your eyelids can lead to meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
What Is MGD?
Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) can occur when the glands lining your eyelids become inflamed. This condition can lead to a reduction in oil production, which causes your tears to evaporate and ultimately results in dryness.
MGD can also cause additional problems, such as thickened oil production and clogged glands, which often leads to inflammation, eyelid irritation, and other uncomfortable symptoms, like eye irritation, watery eyes, or a scratchy feeling.
Our Dry Eye Diagnostic Options
Before we move on to the treatment stage, it’s important to get to the bottom of your dry eye symptoms. We offer a wide range of diagnostic options that help our team get the full picture when it comes to your eye health and your dry eye needs.
Our diagnostic services include gland imaging, tear break-up time testing, topography, InflammaDry, and more.
Gland Imaging
Gland imaging allows us to assess the function and structure of the meibomian glands in your eyelids, which can often be the root cause of dry eye syndrome. By identifying and addressing any abnormalities, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your dry eye symptoms effectively.
Tear Break-Up Time Testing
Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) measures the time it takes for your tears to evaporate and can help us assess the quality of your tears. A low TBUT may indicate that your eyes are not producing enough tears or that the tears produced are of poor quality, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms. With this information, we can develop your treatment plan.
Corneal Topography
Corneal topography is a diagnostic tool that helps us assess the shape and contour of your cornea. This information allows us to identify irregularities that may be contributing to your dry eye symptoms. Additionally, topography can help us evaluate the efficacy of contact lenses and monitor the progression of conditions such as keratoconus.
InflammaDry
InflammaDry is a rapid point-of-care test that can detect elevated levels of an inflammatory marker associated with dry eye disease. InflammaDry is a noninvasive test that requires only a small tear sample and provides results quickly. We implement InflammaDry to address the underlying cause of your dry eye symptoms and explore your treatment options.
TearLab Osmolarity System
The TearLab Osmolarity System measures the osmolarity (salt content) of your tears, which is a key component in the development of dry eye syndrome. A high osmolarity level can indicate that your tears are not providing enough lubrication to your eyes.
Gland Imaging
Gland imaging allows us to assess the function and structure of the meibomian glands in your eyelids, which can often be the root cause of dry eye syndrome. By identifying and addressing any abnormalities, we can develop a personalized treatment plan to help you manage your dry eye symptoms effectively.
Tear Break-Up Time Testing
Tear Break-Up Time (TBUT) measures the time it takes for your tears to evaporate and can help us assess the quality of your tears. A low TBUT may indicate that your eyes are not producing enough tears or that the tears produced are of poor quality, which can contribute to dry eye symptoms. With this information, we can develop your treatment plan.
Virtual reality visual field testing
Corneal topography is a diagnostic tool that helps us assess the shape and contour of your cornea. This information allows us to identify irregularities that may be contributing to your dry eye symptoms. Additionally, topography can help us evaluate the efficacy of contact lenses and monitor the progression of conditions such as keratoconus.
InflammaDry
InflammaDry is a rapid point-of-care test that can detect elevated levels of an inflammatory marker associated with dry eye disease. InflammaDry is a noninvasive test that requires only a small tear sample and provides results quickly. We implement InflammaDry to address the underlying cause of your dry eye symptoms and explore your treatment options.
TearLab Osmolarity System
The TearLab Osmolarity System measures the osmolarity (salt content) of your tears, which is a key component in the development of dry eye syndrome. A high osmolarity level can indicate that your tears are not providing enough lubrication to your eyes.
The OmegaQuant Omega-3 Index Test
We understand that managing dry eye is about more than just treating the symptoms. That’s why we offer OmegaQuant, a quick and easy finger-prick blood test that measures the amount of EPA and DHA (Omega-3) in your blood. The Omega-3 Index Test is an important part of dry eye diagnostics, as maintaining an Omega-3 Index between 8% to 12% is ideal for proper eye health.
We recommend that our patients have their Omega-3 Index tested every 4 to 6 months to check that they are maintaining healthy levels.
Our Dry Eye Treatments
We offer a variety of dry eye treatments and solutions, including OptiLight by Lumenis, BlephEx, LipiFlow, and other options to address your dry eye symptoms and help you take back your comfort.
Following a comprehensive diagnostic process, our team can work with you to find the right dry eye treatment option for your specific needs.
OptiLight
OptiLight by Lumenis is a light-based, noninvasive treatment done in the area below the eyes to manage dry eye. The first and only IPL FDA-approved for dry eye management.
The treatment is safe, gentle, and is backed by more than 20 clinical studies.
OptiLight uses precise pulses of light to reduce the inflammation that is typically associated with dry eye disease, improve tear break-up time, and increase meibomian gland functionality.
OptiPLUS
OptiPLUS is an FDA-cleared device that uses dual-frequency radiofrequency (RF) technology to target a common cause of dry eye: meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
OptiPLUS works by gently heating tissue around your eyes. This heat can increase blood flow, improve collagen production, and help melt hardened oil in the meibomian glands. These glands produce the oil layer in your tears, which is essential for preventing tear evaporation and keeping your eyes comfortable.
OptiPLUS can help you:
- Reduce dry eye symptoms like stinging and irritation
- Improve tear quality and stability
- Enjoy clearer vision
Zest
Zocular Eyelid System Treatment (Zest) is a new in-office solution for people with dry eye. This gentle procedure cleans and exfoliates your eyelids, removing debris and unclogging glands that produce essential oils for healthy tears.
Here’s how ZEST can help:
- Deep Clean: Removes dirt, bacteria, and even Demodex mites that can irritate your eyes
- Unclog Glands: Allows your eyes to produce their own natural lubricants, reducing dryness and discomfort
- Fast Relief: Many patients experience immediate improvement in dry eye symptoms.
If eye drops just aren’t cutting it, talk to our team about whether ZEST is right for you.
Low-Level Light Therapy
equinox Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) is a red light therapy that can help unclog oil glands and decrease inflammation in swollen glands. During the 15-minute procedure, patients wear a mask lined with red lights that heat up to approximately 105° F. This heat helps to gently melt and unclog oils from the glands, while the red light decreases inflammation.
Patients can relax in a massage chair and listen to soothing music during the treatment, followed by a facial massage post-treatment.
LipiFlow
LipiFlow is a dry eye treatment method that is performed in the comfort of your eye doctor’s office. We use single-use applicators, which are placed over your eyes and connected to a device that heats the inner eyelids to approximately 108.5° F while simultaneously placing gentle pressure on the outer eyelid surfaces.
You can relax and enjoy soothing music during the 12-minute procedure, after which you can return to your daily activities right away.
Punctal plugs
Punctal plugs help manage dry eyes when your tears are draining from your eyes too quickly. Punctal plugs are tiny medical devices that are placed into your tear ducts to slow down how fast tears leave the surface of your eyes.
Punctal plugs typically come in temporary or dissolving and semi-permanent types.
OptiLight by Lumenis
OptiLight by Lumenis is a light-based, noninvasive treatment done in the area below the eyes to manage dry eye. The first and only IPL FDA-approved for dry eye management.
The treatment is safe, gentle, and is backed by more than 20 clinical studies.
OptiLight uses precise pulses of light to reduce the inflammation that is typically associated with dry eye disease, improve tear break-up time, and increase meibomian gland functionality.
OptiPLUS
OptiPLUS is an FDA-cleared device that uses dual-frequency radiofrequency (RF) technology to target a common cause of dry eye: meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).
OptiPLUS works by gently heating tissue around your eyes. This heat can increase blood flow, improve collagen production, and help melt hardened oil in the meibomian glands. These glands produce the oil layer in your tears, which is essential for preventing tear evaporation and keeping your eyes comfortable.
OptiPLUS can help you:
- Reduce dry eye symptoms like stinging and irritation
- Improve tear quality and stability
- Enjoy clearer vision
ZEST Treatments
Zocular Eyelid System Treatment (ZEST) is a new in-office solution for people with dry eye. This gentle procedure cleans and exfoliates your eyelids, removing debris and unclogging glands that produce essential oils for healthy tears.
Here’s how ZEST can help:
- Deep Clean: Removes dirt, bacteria, and even Demodex mites that can irritate your eyes
- Unclog Glands: Allows your eyes to produce their own natural lubricants, reducing dryness and discomfort
- Fast Relief: Many patients experience immediate improvement in dry eye symptoms.
If eye drops just aren’t cutting it, talk to our team about whether ZEST is right for you.
equinox Low-Level Light Therapy
equinox Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT) is a red light therapy that can help unclog oil glands and decrease inflammation in swollen glands. During the 15-minute procedure, patients wear a mask lined with red lights that heat up to approximately 105° F. This heat helps to gently melt and unclog oils from the glands, while the red light decreases inflammation.
Patients can relax in a massage chair and listen to soothing music during the treatment, followed by a facial massage post-treatment.
LipiFlow
LipiFlow is a dry eye treatment method that is performed in the comfort of your eye doctor’s office. We use single-use applicators, which are placed over your eyes and connected to a device that heats the inner eyelids to approximately 108.5° F while simultaneously placing gentle pressure on the outer eyelid surfaces.
You can relax and enjoy soothing music during the 12-minute procedure, after which you can return to your daily activities right away.
Punctal Plugs
Punctal plugs help manage dry eyes when your tears are draining from your eyes too quickly. Punctal plugs are tiny medical devices that are placed into your tear ducts to slow down how fast tears leave the surface of your eyes.
Punctal plugs typically come in temporary or dissolving and semi-permanent types.
Your Home for Dry Eye Care in Watertown
We take pride in offering a variety of dry eye diagnostics and treatment options. We know that dealing with dry eye symptoms alone can be challenging, so our team is fully equipped and experienced to help our patients find relief.
Contact us to schedule your appointment today and prevent dry eye from affecting your quality of life.
Book AppointmentOur Location
Our Address
- 1300 19th St NE
- Watertown, SD 57201
Contact Information
- Phone: 605-882-0808
- Fax: 605-882-7078
- Email: beccaw@weisseyecareclinic.com
Our Hours
- Monday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
Our Brands
Our Google Reviews
Our Blogs
Regular Vs. Specialty Contact Lenses: Know The Difference
UncategorizedAs an alternative to eyeglasses, contact lenses can effectively and conveniently correct poor vision. Unfortunately, certain eye conditions make it difficult to wear regular contact lenses. The good news is that R&D labs have been busy finding solutions for individuals with hard-to-fit eyes. The result: specialty contact lenses that are ideal for those with various […]
Symptoms Of A Foreign Body In The Eye: Pain, Irritation, Redness, And MoreSymptoms Of A Foreign Body In The Eye: Pain, Irritation, Redness, And More
UncategorizedAnything that gets into any part of your eye is a foreign body. It can be the occasional eyelash, sand, dirt, or glass. They are all objects that are not naturally found in the eye. It depends on the size and type of material, but a foreign body can cause minor irritation, bleeding, or even […]
Treatment Options for Managing Dry Eye Syndrome
UncategorizedThe field of eye care has come a long way in understanding and treating dry eye. There were limited treatment options in the past, but today, there are many ways to manage this condition. However, finding the proper treatment can be a process of trial and error. That is because dry eye causes and triggers […]
Regular Vs. Specialty Contact Lenses: Know The Difference
As an alternative to eyeglasses, contact lenses can effectively and conveniently correct poor vision. Unfortunately, certain eye conditions make it difficult to wear regular contact lenses. The good news is that R&D labs have been busy finding solutions for individuals with hard-to-fit eyes. The result: specialty contact lenses that are ideal for those with various […]
Symptoms Of A Foreign Body In The Eye: Pain, Irritation, Redness, And MoreSymptoms Of A Foreign Body In The Eye: Pain, Irritation, Redness, And More
Anything that gets into any part of your eye is a foreign body. It can be the occasional eyelash, sand, dirt, or glass. They are all objects that are not naturally found in the eye. It depends on the size and type of material, but a foreign body can cause minor irritation, bleeding, or even […]
Treatment Options for Managing Dry Eye Syndrome
The field of eye care has come a long way in understanding and treating dry eye. There were limited treatment options in the past, but today, there are many ways to manage this condition. However, finding the proper treatment can be a process of trial and error. That is because dry eye causes and triggers […]
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Weiss Eyecare Clinic
- 1300 19th St NE
- Watertown, SD 57201
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P: 605-882-0808
beccaw@weisseyecareclinic.com
