TearCare®

TearCare®

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. At Mission Optometric Center, we understand the importance of effective and innovative treatments to enhance your eye health and quality of life. One such cutting-edge solution is TearCare®, a revolutionary device designed to treat one of the root causes of dry eye—Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).


What Is TearCare®?

TearCare® is an advanced device designed specifically to treat MGD, a leading cause of evaporative dry eye. Unlike traditional treatments that primarily focus on alleviating symptoms, TearCare® targets the underlying issue by addressing dysfunction in the Meibomian glands—tiny glands along the eyelid margins responsible for producing the oily layer of your tear film. When these glands become clogged or dysfunctional, tears evaporate more quickly, leading to irritation, redness, and discomfort. TearCare® provides a comfortable and effective solution for unclogging these glands and restoring normal tear film balance.

How Does TearCare® Work?

TearCare® uses therapeutic heat and gentle pressure to stimulate the Meibomian glands. Flexible, adhesive pads (SmartLids®) are placed on the outer surface of your eyelids. These pads deliver controlled, gentle heat directly to the Meibomian glands, warming them to the optimal temperature needed to melt blockages. The system ensures a comfortable experience by allowing adjustments to the heat and duration based on your specific needs. After the glands are warmed and blockages are softened, your eye care provider will manually express the glands using a special technique to clear out any remaining debris and restore proper gland function.


Why Choose TearCare® for Dry Eye Treatment?

TearCare® offers several advantages over traditional dry eye treatments, including:

  • Minimally Invasive: The procedure is non-surgical and performed right in our office, offering a safe and minimally invasive option for dry eye relief.

  • Highly Effective: By targeting the root cause of MGD, TearCare® provides long-term relief rather than just masking symptoms.

  • Customizable for Your Needs: TearCare® is tailored to each patient, ensuring an optimal and comfortable treatment experience.

  • Quick Recovery: The procedure takes only about 15–30 minutes, and you can resume your normal activities immediately after.

  • Enhanced Comfort and Vision: Patients often report noticeable improvements in comfort, clarity, and overall quality of life after treatment.


Is TearCare® Right for You?

If you experience symptoms such as dry, itchy, or gritty eyes, you may be a candidate for TearCare®. One of our optometrists will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the root cause of your dry eye symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment plan for you.



​​​​​​​The Mission Optometric Center Difference

We pride ourselves on staying at the forefront of eye care technology and offering treatments like TearCare® to provide our patients with the best possible outcomes. Contact Mission Optometric Center in San Juan Capistrano, CA, today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clearer, more comfortable vision.

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