If you suffer from itchy eyelids, crusting in the mornings or throughout your day, red or puffy eyelids, recurrent styes, dryness, discharge or watery eyes, you may be suffering from a condition called, blepharitis.
Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid margins caused by bacterial build up at the base of the eyelids. It can be from the normal bacterial flora that normally reside on the eyelids or from mites called demodex.
In the past, we would treat this condition with at-home lid therapy consisting of warm compresses and lid scrubs along with artificial tears. We would also use prescription medications to help control the bacteria and inflammation. Now we have something to offer our patients that can greatly help with the symptoms caused by blepharitis.
This new patented treatment is called BlephEx.
BlephEx is a noninvasive deep cleaning of the eyelid margins by a handheld device. The treatment takes about 8-10 minutes to complete and is done by one of our providers. The procedure is not painful, but we do use topical anesthetic drops to improve comfort. Patients often describe it as a tickling feeling during the procedure.
Your doctor will recommend a cleaning regimen to help extend the effects of the treatment. This treatment will not cure your blepharitis and it is recommended to repeat the procedure about every 4-6 months, depending on your symptoms.