Beyond Artificial Tears: How LipiFlow Targets the Root Cause of Summer Dry Eye in Broward County

Summer in Broward County brings intense heat, bright sunlight, wind, outdoor activities, and frequent exposure to air conditioning. These conditions can cause tears to evaporate faster, leaving the eyes feeling dry, gritty, tired, or irritated. Long hours on digital devices can add to the problem because people tend to blink less while concentrating on a screen.

Artificial tears can provide useful short-term moisture, but recurring symptoms may signal an underlying issue that eye drops alone cannot correct. For many patients, the problem is related to meibomian gland dysfunction, also called MGD.

The Role of the Meibomian Glands

The meibomian glands are located along the eyelids. They release oils that form the outer layer of the tear film and help keep natural tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or stop releasing enough healthy oil, the tear film becomes unstable.

Common signs of meibomian gland dysfunction and evaporative dry eye include:
 

• Burning, stinging, or scratchy eyes

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Sensitivity to light

• Eye fatigue after reading or screen use

• Contact lenses that become uncomfortable

• Watery eyes caused by irritation

Because these symptoms can have several possible causes, a dry eye evaluation is important before recommending treatment.

How LipiFlow Addresses Blocked Oil Glands

LipiFlow is designed to target meibomian gland blockages rather than simply adding temporary moisture to the surface of the eyes. The system applies controlled warmth to the eyelids while using gentle pulsation to help loosen and express hardened oils from the glands.

By helping the glands release oil more effectively, LipiFlow supports a healthier tear film and may reduce rapid tear evaporation. The treatment is performed in the office, and the eyelids are protected throughout the process. Most patients can return to their normal activities afterward.

LipiFlow does not replace every part of a personalized dry eye care plan. Depending on the severity and cause of the symptoms, additional recommendations may include eyelid hygiene, nutritional support, prescription medication, changes to contact lens wear, or other in-office therapies.

Why a Dry Eye Evaluation Matters

Dry eye symptoms are not always caused by the same problem. Allergies, medications, screen habits, contact lens wear, eyelid inflammation, and other eye health conditions can produce similar discomfort. During an evaluation, our team can examine the tear film, eyelids, and meibomian glands to determine what is contributing to the symptoms.

This information helps us decide whether LipiFlow is appropriate and develop a care plan based on each patient’s needs. Identifying the source of dry eye can also help prevent symptoms from becoming more disruptive during Broward County’s hottest months.

Schedule a dry eye evaluation with Sunrise Eye Care in Sunrise, FL, by calling (954) 845-0665 to discover whether LipiFlow can help you move beyond temporary relief from artificial tears.