Dry eye can make everyday life uncomfortable - causing burning, irritation, blurred vision, and that gritty “something in my eye” feeling. For many patients, the root cause is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), where the oil glands along the eyelids don’t work well enough to keep tears from evaporating too quickly.
At 20/Twenty Eyecare, we help patients in Wellington, FL and nearby communities find lasting relief with personalized dry eye care. Below are answers to common questions we hear, including how treatments like Low Level Light Therapy (LLLT), targeted vitamin therapy, and the right artificial tears can help.
1. What is dry eye treatment and how does it work?
Dry eye treatment improves tear quality, reduces inflammation, and supports healthy eyelids and tear glands. Many plans focus on treating MGD, since blocked oil glands can make tears evaporate too fast. At 20/Twenty Eyecare in Wellington, treatment may include in-office therapies like Low Level Light Therapy, daily home care, and tailored lubricating drops.
2. Who should consider dry eye treatment in Wellington, FL?
Dry eye treatment can help anyone in Wellington with burning, stinging, watery eyes, fluctuating vision, or contact lens discomfort. It’s also common for patients who spend long hours on screens, wear contacts, or have allergies. If symptoms keep returning despite over-the-counter drops, our optometrist can evaluate the cause and recommend next steps.
3. How do I know if I need professional dry eye treatment?
You may need professional care if symptoms last more than a few weeks, affect your vision, or keep you from wearing contacts comfortably. Frequent watering, redness, light sensitivity, or eyelid irritation can also be signs. At 20/Twenty Eyecare, we look for underlying issues like MGD so your treatment targets the cause, not just the discomfort.
4. Is dry eye treatment commonly recommended by optometrists?
Dry eye treatment is commonly recommended when symptoms are persistent or linked to eyelid gland problems like MGD. Optometrists often suggest a combination approach, such as better tear support with artificial tears plus therapies that improve gland function. In Wellington, patients often benefit most when treatment is customized based on testing and symptoms.
5. How is dry eye treatment different from using artificial tears alone?
Artificial tears can relieve dryness, but they usually don’t fix the underlying cause. If MGD is present, you may need treatment that improves oil gland flow and reduces inflammation so tears last longer. At 20/Twenty Eyecare in Wellington, we often pair the right type of drops with therapies like Low Level Light Therapy and targeted eyelid care.
6. What can I expect during a dry eye appointment in Wellington?
A dry eye visit typically starts with a symptom review and a close look at your tear film and eyelids. Dr. Helen Abdal may evaluate the meibomian glands, look for inflammation, and discuss triggers like screen time or allergies. At 20/Twenty Eyecare, the goal is to identify whether MGD, tear quality, or inflammation is driving symptoms.
7. How long does dry eye treatment usually take to start working?
Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks, but timing depends on severity and the cause. Artificial tears may help quickly, while MGD-focused care and Low Level Light Therapy may build results over multiple visits. In Wellington, we typically recommend a consistent routine and follow-up so adjustments can be made as your eyes respond.
8. Is dry eye treatment safe for adults and seniors?
Dry eye treatment is safe for adults and seniors when it’s guided by an optometrist. The safest option depends on your eye health, medications, and any conditions like blepharitis or rosacea. At 20/Twenty Eyecare in Wellington, we choose therapies based on your exam findings and comfort, including gentle options like LLLT.
9. How often should patients receive dry eye treatment?
Frequency depends on your symptoms and whether MGD is a main factor. Some patients do well with daily home care and periodic in-office treatments, while others need a structured series of visits. At 20/Twenty Eyecare, we’ll recommend a schedule that fits your condition and monitor changes over time in Wellington.
10. Do I need a consultation before starting Low Level Light Therapy?
A consultation is important before starting Low Level Light Therapy because dry eye has different causes. Your optometrist needs to confirm whether MGD or inflammation is contributing and whether LLLT is a good fit. A dry eye evaluation in Wellington helps ensure you’re using the right combination of in-office treatment and home support.
11. How much does dry eye treatment cost in Wellington, FL?
The cost of dry eye treatment in Wellington can vary based on factors such as the type of care provided, diagnostic testing involved, and individual patient needs. At 20/Twenty Eyecare, our team is happy to review expected costs and answer questions once your specific needs have been assessed.
12. Does insurance typically cover dry eye treatment?
Insurance coverage for dry eye treatment depends on your individual plan. Some services may be covered in full or in part, while others may require out-of-pocket payment. 20/Twenty Eyecare accepts a variety of insurance plans and can help verify your benefits prior to your appointment so you have a clear understanding of your coverage.
13. Are there payment options for dry eye services that aren’t fully covered?
We offer payment options for services not fully covered by insurance. If you’re considering therapies like Low Level Light Therapy or specialized testing, it helps to ask about expected costs up front. The team at 20/Twenty Eyecare in Wellington can walk through options so there are no surprises.
14. How do I choose the right dry eye provider in Wellington, FL?
Look for an optometrist who evaluates the underlying cause, not just symptoms. Ask whether the office assesses MGD, offers targeted therapies like Low Level Light Therapy, and recommends the right kind of artificial tears for your tear film. Choosing a provider who explains your results and gives a clear plan often leads to better, longer-lasting relief.
If you have questions about dry eye treatment in Wellington, FL or want to find out whether MGD care, Low Level Light Therapy, vitamin therapy, or artificial tears are right for you, 20/Twenty Eyecare is here to help. We proudly serve patients throughout Wellington and surrounding areas. Contact our office by calling (561) 333-3932 to schedule a dry eye evaluation and get a plan tailored to your eyes.