In-clinic treatment: IPL, RF & expression
When warm compresses and drops aren't enough, we treat the eyelids directly.
- 01Dry eyes? It's not just a lack of water
- 02Meibomian glands: your eyes' oil factories
- 03Why won't my tears stay put?
- 04Why does dry eye keep coming back?
- 05Health conditions that can dry your eyes
- 06Everyday habits that quietly feed dry eye
- 07“It's just dry eyes”? It's not that simple
- 08Managing dry eye: from home to clinic
- 09In-clinic treatment: IPL, RF & expression
Why treat the eyelids, not just the tears
Part 09 · 01Drops can’t unblock a gland
They add moisture to the surface, but can’t clear thickened oil from inside the glands.
Inflammation keeps the cycle going
Tiny inflamed blood vessels along the lid margin feed ongoing gland damage.
Treat the lid, then clear the gland
Energy calms and softens; expression empties. Each step helps the next work better.
Three treatments, three jobs
Part 09 · 02Calms inflammation
Pulses of filtered light target abnormal vessels and inflammation around the lids, and reduce Demodex mites.
Heats deep and evenly
Radiofrequency warms the lids from within to melt thickened oil, with temperature monitored throughout.
Clears the blockage
Gentle pressure with a paddle or forceps pushes out the softened oil while it’s still warm.
IPL with Lumecca-I
Part 09 · 03Where it’s applied
Cheeks and lower lids, just below the eye. Your eyes are fully covered with protective shields.
What it targets
Abnormal blood vessels, inflammation and Demodex mites around the lid margin.
How it feels
A bright flash and a warm snap, like a flick from a rubber band. Brief and well tolerated.
Who it suits
Lighter to medium skin types. Dry eye linked to rosacea often responds well.
Radiofrequency with Forma-I
Part 09 · 04Controlled, monitored heat
The handpiece reads skin temperature in real time and cuts out if it goes above the set limit.
Reaches deeper than a compress
Heat penetrates the lid to soften oil inside the glands, not just on the surface.
Feels like a warm massage
Most people find it relaxing. No downtime; you can return to normal activities.
An option for more skin types
RF doesn’t rely on skin pigment, so it can be used where IPL isn’t suitable.
Gland expression: clearing the blockage
Part 09 · 05Done straight after IPL or RF, while the oil is still soft.
It can feel uncomfortable for a moment. We adjust the pressure as we go, and you can ask us to pause at any time.
What a course looks like
Part 09 · 06Assessment
Gland imaging and tear film tests decide which treatment suits you, and how many sessions.
Treatment course
Usually 3–4 sessions, about 2–4 weeks apart.
Review
Symptoms and glands are re-checked after the course.
Maintenance
Often a top-up every 6–12 months, with home care in between.
Typical ranges only. Your plan depends on your dry eye type and how your glands respond.
Is it right for you?
Part 09 · 07Recent tan or darker skin
IPL may not be suitable. Radiofrequency is often still an option.
Light-sensitising medicines
Some, such as isotretinoin, must be stopped well beforehand. Tell us everything you take.
Pregnancy, pacemakers or implants
Let us know first. Some treatments are avoided.
Active skin problems
Cold sores, infections or broken skin near the eyes need to settle first.
These treatments support home care; they don’t replace it. Warm compresses, lid hygiene and the right drops still matter between sessions.
After your session
Part 09 · 08Mild redness or warmth
Usually settles within a few hours.
Protect your skin
Use SPF and a hat for a few days after IPL.
Keep up home care
Continue warm compresses and drops as advised.
Key takeaways
Part 09- 01IPL calms inflammation, RF melts thickened oil, and expression clears the glands.
- 02Usually a course of 3–4 sessions, then occasional top-ups.
- 03Suitability depends on your dry eye type, skin and health, so we assess first.
Book an eye surface assessment.
Eyes that often feel dry or gritty, or vision that comes and goes? Find out which type you have and what’s driving it.
General health information only, not personal advice. Everyone’s eyes are different. An optometrist or doctor should examine you before any treatment is decided.