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In our Dry Eye Center, we will conduct a series of evaluations and determine the likely cause of your Dry Eye symptoms. If the evaluations indicate symptoms beyond mild, we will proceed with LipiView®. This technology allows the physician to evaluate the lipid (oil) layer on your eye. Following these evaluations, we will then determine whether or not you have Evaporative Dry Eye or Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and if you are a candidate for LipiFlow®.
Lipiflow® applies a combination of heat and pulsatile pressure to open your Meibomian glands. Many find a single treatment effective in relieving the symptoms of Dry Eye. With LipiFlow® — and regular checks and ongoing care to monitor your progress – let us help you experience Dry Eye relief like never before.
Dr. Smalley is one of those great talents who puts the care in caregiver! Communicates on all and why as he works, giving warm guidance to assistants, and thorough.
Dr. Schmutz is a wonderful doctor. I have never felt rushed at my appointments and he’s very thorough. I would wholeheartedly recommend him and this office.
Professional, excellent communication, very knowledgeable, caring, “Excels” in every concern you have through listening to you and then offering your choices for resolution.
I was quite impressed with the depth of care involved in your practice at Excel as well as the friendly atmosphere. No complaints!
What are the symptoms of dry eye?
Symptoms of dry eye vary from person-to-person. It’s common for people to experience a multitude of sensations in their eye including burning, scratchy, and an overall coarse feeling. One symptom people don’t often expect is watery eyes. This symptom is your body’s natural response to the lack of lubrication your eye is experiencing.
Why are dry eyes bad?
Dry eyes may not sound like a serious problem, and people sometimes push through the discomfort experienced from the dry eye. However, a dry eye is able to affect a person’s vision quality, since excessive dryness can cause corneal damage that can result in vision loss.
Can dry eyes be cured?
In most cases, dry eye can’t be fully “cured,” but it can be effectively managed. Think of it like allergies. With the right treatment, symptoms can dramatically improve, and many people go about their daily lives with little to no discomfort. The key is pinpointing the root cause and creating a personalized treatment plan that works for your lifestyle.
Who treats dry eyes?
At Excel Eye Center, our optometrists and ophthalmologists are both eye care specialists able to diagnose and treat dry eye. Our doctors can also help identify if there is an underlying medical condition causing the dry eye and offer treatment options with our cornea specialists and oculoplastic surgeons if needed. Our goal is to build a targeted strategy to bring you relief.
How to treat dry eyes?
There are many options to treat dry eyes. Some treatments, like lubricating eye drops or prescription medications, work quickly. Others, like heat-based therapies or lifestyle changes, take more time but offer longer-lasting relief. Our job is to guide you through each phase, so you know what to expect and when to expect it. For most people, it takes a few weeks to a few months to notice full improvement.
Can too much screen time really cause dry eyes?
Yes, and it’s more common than you think. Staring at screens reduces how often we blink by more than half. That’s a problem because blinking helps keep your eyes hydrated and your tear film balanced. Add in Utah’s dry climate, and it’s a recipe for digital eye strain.
Is dry eye more common with age?
It is. As we age, our tear production naturally slows down, and hormone changes especially during menopause can increase the risk of chronic dry eye.
The good news? No matter your age, there’s effective treatments for dry eye available and we at Excel Eye Center are here to help find the right treatment plan for you.