At Thomas Eye Center we used advanced technology called the OCULUS Keratograph 5M to perform our dry eye evaluations to accurately assess the precise cause and severity of your dry eye. Using this detailed information, we can recommend the best course of treatment to address your specific problem. The OCULUS has a high-resolution color camera and is equipped with intelligent software to analyze the collected data and document the findings. It can also compare the results and show the success of the dry eye treatment.

Quality and quantity of the tear film

To measure the quality and stability of the tear film, the OCULUS measures the tear film break-up time non-invasively. This test takes less than 30 seconds and does not require touching the eye. To evaluate the quantity of tear film, the OCULUS takes a picture of the lower eyelid to measure the tear meniscus height.

Lipid Layer

The OCULUS is able to document a movie of the oily layer of the tear film. A healthy and thick lipid layer is colorful and protects the tears from fast evaporation. If there is not enough lipid, the tear film becomes unstable, the moisture dissipates quickly and both vision and comfort can be compromised.

Meibography

In both the upper and lower lids, the meibomian glands produce oils that stabilize the tear film and prevent tear evaporation. If the meibomian glands do not function properly, dry eye usually occurs. We use the advanced features of the OCULUS Keratograph 5M to directly assess the health of the meibomian glands, and determine if you are a good candidate for the iLUX procedure.