
Dry, irritated eyes are often the result of more than just a lack of tears. In many cases, inflammation and poor tear quality are the true sources of discomfort. When these underlying issues aren’t addressed, dry eye symptoms can persist despite regular use of eye drops. Radiofrequency (RF) treatment offers an advanced solution by targeting inflammation and supporting healthier tear production for long-term relief.
Inflammation plays a major role in many forms of dry eye, particularly evaporative dry eye caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). The meibomian glands, located along the eyelids, produce oils that prevent tears from evaporating too quickly. When these glands become blocked or inflamed, the oil layer of the tear film breaks down, leading to faster tear evaporation and ongoing irritation. Chronic inflammation can also damage the glands over time, making dry eye symptoms more persistent and harder to manage without targeted treatment.
Radiofrequency (RF) treatment uses controlled heat energy applied to the eyelids and surrounding tissues. This gentle thermal energy penetrates deeper layers of tissue than traditional warm compresses, helping to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and soften thickened oils within the meibomian glands.
RF therapy helps calm inflammation in several important ways:
• Improves blood flow: Increased circulation supports tissue healing and helps flush out inflammatory byproducts.
• Stimulates collagen production: Healthier skin and eyelid tissues can improve eyelid function and stability.
• Reduces inflammatory stress on glands: By restoring a more normal environment, RF therapy helps prevent ongoing gland damage.
By addressing inflammation directly, RF treatment targets one of the underlying drivers of chronic dry eye rather than simply masking symptoms.
Healthy tears rely on a balanced tear film made up of oil, water, and mucus layers. RF treatment improves tear quality by:
• Unclogging meibomian glands: Heat softens thick, stagnant oils so they can flow more freely.
• Enhancing the oil layer of tears: Better oil quality slows evaporation and keeps eyes comfortable longer.
• Stabilizing the tear film: A more consistent tear film leads to clearer vision and fewer fluctuations.
Patients often notice reduced dryness, less irritation, and improved visual comfort after completing a series of RF treatments.
RF treatment offers an advanced, targeted approach to dry eye care by reducing inflammation and improving tear quality at the source. Instead of relying solely on temporary solutions, RF therapy helps restore healthier gland function and long-term comfort. For many patients, it can be a key step toward clearer vision and more comfortable eyes.
If dry eye symptoms are affecting your comfort, schedule a dry eye evaluation at Della Porta EyeCare to learn more about RF treatment. Visit our office in Bristol, Connecticut, or call (860) 807-1500 to book an appointment today.