Stinging, itching, or otherwise dry eyes can be frustrating and make it challenging to go about your everyday life. We offer various treatment options that can help reduce these symptoms. In addition to eye drops, medications, and other standard treatment options, we provide an innovative light therapy treatment called Marco Equinox that can be an even more effective way to keep your eyes moist and comfortable. Here is an overview of why you may be experiencing dry eyes and how we can help you manage your symptoms at our Colorado Springs optometry office! 

What Causes Dry Eyes?

Dry eyes are generally caused by decreased tear production or tears that evaporate too quickly. In some cases, patients experience both.
Common causes of dry eyes include:

• Aging
• Certain medications or medical conditions
• Eye allergies or environmental irritants
• Eyelid dysfunction or inflammation
• Reduced blinking (often from screen use)
• Wearing contact lenses for extended periods
• Vitamin A deficiency

Understanding the cause of your dry eye is the first step toward choosing the most effective treatment.

What Is Dry Eye Therapy?

Dry eye therapy focuses on improving tear quality, increasing tear production, and restoring proper function to the glands that keep your eyes lubricated. While over-the-counter drops may provide temporary relief, many patients benefit from treatments that target the underlying issue. At Sage Optometry, we offer advanced solutions designed to provide longer-lasting results and improved comfort.

Our Dry Eye Treatment Options

We offer a range of modern dry eye therapies to meet each patient’s needs. Your treatment plan will be customized based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and underlying cause.

OptiLIFT Treatment

OptiLIFT is an advanced treatment designed to improve eyelid function and support the natural tear film. By addressing the structure and function of the eyelids, OptiLIFT helps reduce tear evaporation and improve overall eye comfort.
This treatment is ideal for patients experiencing dry eye related to eyelid dysfunction or poor tear stability.

Amniotic Membranes

Amniotic membrane therapy is used to support healing and restore the surface of the eye. These specialized membranes help reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair, making them a powerful option for more advanced or chronic dry eye conditions.
This treatment is often recommended when the surface of the eye needs additional support to recover and maintain moisture.

Low-Level Light Therapy (LLLT)

Low-level light therapy, including treatments like Marco Equinox, uses gentle LED light to warm the eyelids and stimulate the glands responsible for producing healthy tears.

This non-invasive treatment helps:

• Unclog blocked oil glands
• Improve tear quality
• Increase natural tear production

Treatment sessions typically last about 15 minutes, and many patients benefit from a series of sessions to restore comfortable moisture levels. There is no downtime, making it an easy addition to your routine.

In addition to eye health benefits, LLLT may also support overall skin health by minimizing inflammation and improving skin appearance around the eyes.

Scleral Lenses

Scleral lenses are specialized contact lenses designed to create a protective, moisture-rich barrier over the surface of the eye. Unlike traditional contact lenses, they hold a reservoir of fluid that keeps the eye continuously hydrated.
Scleral lenses are often recommended for patients with:

• Moderate to severe dry eye
• Corneal irregularities
• Chronic discomfort with standard contacts

They provide both vision correction and therapeutic relief, making them a highly effective option for certain patients.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dry Eye Treatment?

Most patients experiencing ongoing dry eye symptoms can benefit from treatment. The best approach depends on the severity of your condition and the underlying cause.

• You may be a good candidate if you experience:
• Burning or stinging eyes
• Redness or irritation
• Blurry or fluctuating vision
• Sensitivity to light
• A gritty or dry sensation

During your visit, we will perform a comprehensive eye exam to determine the most effective treatment plan for your needs.

What to Expect from Treatment

Dry eye treatments are designed to be comfortable, effective, and minimally disruptive to your routine.
Depending on your treatment plan, you can expect:

• Short, in-office treatment sessions (often around 15 minutes)
• No downtime for most therapies
• A series of treatments for optimal results
• Ongoing monitoring to maintain long-term comfort

Some treatments, like LLLT, may require multiple sessions to achieve the best outcome, and maintenance treatments may be recommended over time.

Is Dry Eye Treatment Safe?

Dry eye treatments such as low-level light therapy, scleral lenses, and amniotic membranes are generally safe and non-invasive for most patients.
As with any medical treatment, individual responses may vary. During your consultation, we will review your medical history and ensure the recommended treatment is appropriate for you.

Why Choose Evergreen Optometry for Dry Eye Treatment?

At Evergreen Optometry, we take a personalized, patient-first approach to dry eye care. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, we focus on identifying the root cause of your symptoms and building a treatment plan that fits your life.

Patients choose us because we offer:

• Advanced treatment options not available at every practice
• A focus on long-term relief, not temporary fixes
• Clear explanations and guidance at every step
• A comfortable, supportive experience
• Schedule Your Dry Eye Consultation

If you are tired of dealing with dry, irritated eyes, we are here to help. Evergreen Optometry offers advanced dry eye treatment in Colorado Springs, including OptiLIFT, amniotic membranes, low-level light therapy, and scleral lenses.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief.