What is Meibomian Gland Expression and Why Might It Be Helpful?

Meibomian gland expression (MGE) is a minimally-invasive, gentle way to address dry eye symptoms and provide long-term relief. 

If you’ve been dealing with eye irritation, redness, dryness, and itchiness or constantly using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops, we’re excited to share this dry eye treatment option with you. 

Here, we’ll cover what meibomian gland expression is and how it can help relieve dry eye symptoms. We’ll cover why MGE works so well, what to expect during MGE treatment, and other ways to relieve dry eye discomfort. 

What does meibomian gland expression involve?

Here’s what to expect during meibomian gland expression: 

1. Step 1: Heat Mask - We apply a heat mask to soften any blockages and promote better oil flow.

2. Step 2: Topical Anaesthetic - Numbing eye drops are used to reduce discomfort.

3. Step 3. Debridement - We perform lid margin debridement using a special cleanser and tools. This removes bacteria, dead cells, and dried lipids from the meibomian gland opening and eyelids. 

4. Step 4. Expression - Using specialised tools, we apply gentle pressure to the eyelids to express any solidified oils in the meibomian glands.

Conditions Meibomian Gland Expression can Treat

Meibomian gland expression can help treat: 

• Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD): Meibomian gland dysfunction involves malfunction or blockages of the meibomian glands.This dysfunction then leads to the production of poor-quality oils which can lead to ocular surface disease. Learn more here: What is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD)?

• Evaporative dry eye syndrome: A condition involving accelerated evaporation of tears from the ocular surface, which can cause dryness and discomfort. Expression can then help restore the tear film’s oil layer and prevent tears from evaporating too fast. 

• Recurrent styes and chalazia occur when the meibomian glands are clogged, so gently expressing congealed oils can help clear debris that contributes to meibomian gland blockages 

• Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids that is commonly associated with meibomian gland dysfunction.  

How MGE works in Treating MGD

MGD is a result of clogged or malfunctioning meibomian glands. These glands, orientiated perpendicular to the eyelid margin, are responsible for creating the oil layer of the tear film. 

If the glands are clogged or fail to produce enough oil, tears can evaporate too quickly. Without enough or good quality tears, dryness, irritation, redness, and inflammation of the eyes can occur.

Meibomian gland expression works by gently unclogging the meibomian glands and encouraging proper oil flow. Releasing oils that are stuck in the glands can help promote better oil flow and quality, leading to a more balanced tear film. 

Supporting a stable tear film also keeps tears on the surface of the eyes longer. This helps nourish the eyes, reducing symptoms of discomfort, dryness, itchiness, and irritation. 

Benefits of MGE

Meibomian gland expression can offer immediate and long-term benefits, such as: 

• An improvement in dry eye symptoms after a single treatment (although it can take a few session to notice more long-term relief)

• Better tear film stability and hence reduced reliance on lubricating eye drops

• Improved eye comfort

• Removal of solidified oils and blockages from eyelid glands

• Reduced eye inflammation and irritation

• Reduced risk of long-term damage from severe, chronic dry eye 

You May Also Like: What Happens If You Don’t Treat Dry Eyes?

Why Should I Consider Meibomian Gland Expression?

Here are 4 reasons you may want to consider Meibomian Gland Expression: 

1. Non-Invasive Dry Eye Treatment 

Meibomian gland expression is minimally-invasive and clinically proven. This safe procedure is quick and comfortable and offers long-term dry eye relief. 

2. Immediate Results 

Many patients enjoy a noticeable improvement in their symptoms after a single MGE session. Ongoing sessions can help patients see continued improvement in their symptoms and eye health. 

3. Address the Cause, Not Just Symptoms

Meibomian gland expression gets to the root issue of dry, itchy, irritated eyes.By promoting healthier oil production and quality and clearing blockage, MGE can address the underlying cause of dry eyes. 

4. Prevent Eye and Vision Damage

Untreated, chronic dry eyes can lead to continuous fluctuations in visual clarity, as well as long-term ocular surface complications (including pain). Regular meibomian gland expression helps promote improved overall eye health, clear vision, and can slow the progression of meibomian gland dysfunction.

Complimentary Treatments and Lifestyle Adjustments to Support MGE

Meibomian gland expression is often part of a comprehensive dry eyes treatment plan. Professional treatments combined with lifestyle adjustments can provide the best relief for dry eye disease. 

Our Perth dry eye clinic offers tailored dry eye treatments that complement meibomian gland expression, including regular eye exams and prescription eye drops. 

IPL for dry eye disease is another treatment that can complement MGE, from which we’ve seen excellent results as this uses more of a combined approach. 

Home dry eye treatments and lifestyle changes your dry eye optometrist may recommend include:

• Dietary Changes: Foods rich in fatty acids can help with dry eye management by promoting a balanced tear film and reducing inflammation. Aim for foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as sardines, anchovies, chia seeds, walnuts, salmon, and flaxseeds. 

• Omega 3 Supplements: Along with adding more foods rich in fatty acids to your diet, your doctor or optometrist may recommend an Omega 3 supplement. Learn more about how nutrition impacts dry eye disease in our guide here: Vitamins for Dry Eyes: Nutritional Supplements for Dry Eye Disease. 

• Warm Compresses: Warm compresses are gentle, soothing, and can help thin secretions that are too thick. Regular warm compresses at home can also promote natural oil flow. 

• Artificial Tears: Preservative-free artificial tears can help relieve symptoms of dryness. Your optometrist will provide you with recommendations for the best lubricating eye drops to use for your eyes.

• Staying Hydrated: Drink enough water to stay hydrated.

• Smarter Screen Time: Take regular breaks during prolonged screen usage to help prevent eye strain. 

Schedule Your MGE Consultation

Meibomian gland expression is a gentle and effective treatment for targeting the root cause of meibomian gland dysfunction. MGE can help promote overall eye health, improve daily comfort, and support better vision.  

Dealing with dry, irritated eyes and want to stop relying on eye drops as your only relief? Meibomian gland expression may be an ideal dry eyes treatment for long-lasting relief.  

Contact our team at For Eyes to schedule your MGE consultation. We’ll evaluate your symptoms, eye health, and vision to create a tailored treatment approach that goes beyond temporary relief. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does meibomian gland expression hurt?

This is the number one question we get from patients. We understand this process can sound a little intimidating, but most patients are surprised by how painless MGE is. 

We use eye drops to numb the surface of your eye to ensure you kept as comfortable as possible. You may feel some mild discomfort and pressure during treatment, but it should be manageable and brief. 

With continued treatments, MGE should become more comfortable as secretions become thinner. 

As with any procedure, we encourage you to discuss any fears or concerns you have with us. We’re happy to walk you through exactly what to expect and take additional steps to keep you comfortable. 

What does the secretion look like?

Healthy meibomian glands produce a clear oil with a consistency similar to vegetable oil. Secretions from meibomian glands that are blocked or not functioning properly are often thicker and yellow or white in colour (more like the consistency of toothpaste).  

How do I know if my Meibomian glands are blocked?

You may not notice blocked meibomian glands in the early stages. As your tear film quality declines, you may experience:

• Irritation

• Dryness

• Burning or stinging eyes

• Itchy eyes

• Redness

• Grittiness or the feeling that something is stuck in your eye

How long does it take to unclog Meibomian glands?

Meibomian gland expression is a fast treatment, often taking only 15 minutes to complete. Ongoing treatments are required to maintain results. 

Can I do meibomian gland expression at home?

No, we do not recommend DIY meibomian gland expression at home. Attempting to unblock your glands on your own can lead to eyelid damage, eye infections, and other complications.

MGE should always be performed by a licensed professional, such as your ophthalmologist or optometrist