KEY MESSAGES

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is an abnormality of the meibomian glands that results from duct obstruction and irregular meibum quality/quantity, leading to symptoms of dry eye. As MGD increases in severity, the more unstable the tear lipid layer becomes, resulting in increased tear evaporation, tear hyperosmolarity, and ocular surface inflammation

Clinicians have many options for managing MGD but must weigh many factors in developing their treatment plan, including comorbidities, efficacy and safety, time-to-onset, adverse side effects, patient psychology (potential for compliance/dropout), and convenience

Topical immunomodulators are indicated for and effective at reducing ocular surface inflammation. They have been shown to be effective in improving meibomian gland function within 4-12 weeks post-treatment

The mainstay of MGD therapy is a combination of eyelid heating and expression. The iLux^® device is a thermal pulsation system that offers simultaneous heating and expression therapy and has demonstrated efficacy in relieving symptoms and improving gland functionby as early as 1 week post-treatment