Managing Dry Eye: How Punctal Occlusion with LACRIFILL® Can Help

Dry eye can significantly impact your daily comfort and visual performance. Whether you’re experiencing chronic irritation, blurry vision, or a constant need to use artificial tears, managing dry eye effectively requires understanding the root cause and choosing the right treatment. One innovative solutions we offer at Barry Huse OD & Associates is punctal occlusion using LACRIFILL®.
 

Understanding the Causes of Dry Eye

Dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the tears evaporate too quickly. This can be due to aging, hormonal changes, certain medications, or medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders. One of the most common causes of evaporative dry eye is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), which is a condition where the oil glands in the eyelids become blocked and cause the tear film to become unstable. Environmental factors such as screen use, dry climates, or wind can also make symptoms worse. If left untreated, dry eye can lead to inflammation and damage to the surface of the eye.
 

What Is Punctal Occlusion?

Tears normally drain from your eyes through small openings called puncta, located at the inner corners of the eyelids. Punctal occlusion is a treatment designed to block these openings, helping your natural tears stay on the eye’s surface longer. This reduces dryness, promotes healing, and enhances comfort.
 

Why Choose LACRIFILL®?

LACRIFILL® is a next-generation punctal filler made from a hyaluronic acid hydrogel material that is gradually absorbed by the body. It offers a modern alternative to traditional punctal plugs, providing effective relief for dry eye without the drawbacks of older treatments.

Unlike traditional plugs, LACRIFILL® is comfortable and virtually invisible once placed. It is biocompatible, meaning it works naturally with your body and is resorbed over time without the need for removal. The procedure is simple and quick, inserted in-office in just a few minutes with minimal discomfort.

Because LACRIFILL® conforms to the shape of your tear duct, it offers a snug, secure fit that helps retain moisture on the surface of your eye. This customized fit minimizes the sensation that something is in your eye, delivering relief without irritation.
 

Is LACRIFILL® Right for You?

If you've been relying on artificial tears several times a day or experiencing chronic eye discomfort, punctal occlusion with LACRIFILL® could be the next step. It’s especially beneficial for patients with aqueous-deficient dry eye or those who want longer-lasting relief without the need for daily drops. Our optometrist will evaluate your tear film, medical history, and symptoms to determine whether LACRIFILL® is a good fit for your needs.
 

Say Goodbye to Dry Eye Discomfort

Dry eye can interfere with your daily comfort, but effective relief is within reach. With LACRIFILL®, you can experience improved hydration and lasting symptom relief without the hassle of constant eye drop use.

Schedule a consultation with Barry Huse OD & Associates to find out if LACRIFILL® is the right choice for managing your dry eye symptoms. Visit our office in Tacoma, Washington, or call (253) 473-1050 to book an appointment today.